Thanks all. I think I really am looking for something simple, not outstanding and something that will blend nicely without shouting, "Look at me!" Subtle is best in my book and I think the countertop speaks loudly enough. I couldn't think of or find any other "colors" or "textures" beside the darker gray that would do just that. It was late when I posted so I forgot I had pictures of the tiles, duh, that helps huh? I think the minimalist idea but not harsh and stark and cold is what this kitchen needs. I wasn't thinking in terms of feminine just with so many darks I didn't want it to appear at first glance that many men lived here, (although three out of five do!!). They really could care less anyway, just strive to make the mom happy. What a blessing! Anyway, try to imagine a 7x20 tile laid lengthwise with about 1/8 in tiny bit deeper color grout. Now what do you think? Without the tiny tiles inlaid. Remember: Place them lengthwise in your mind and keep in mind that EXPO uses flourescent lighting and I have lots of overhead lighting plus zenon undercabinet lighting. Thanks again!

These considerations above are the same I go back and forth and can't seem to make up my mind. Gosh, I didn't know deciding on handles would be so difficult! :) @ Mayflower: I am actually leaning towards the dakota wire pull in antique pewter. I like it because it is dark, but not "too" dark, like ORB. I looked at tons of white kitchens on pinterest and while I like black and ORB there, here in my home I feel it pops against the white cabinets and the overall feeling of the kitchen too much. @Herbflavor: Thanks for the compliments on my kitchen. That is what I was going for/wanted - a airy, light kitchen with a farm feel to it. But not too "farmy" if you get my meaning. I feel like a light hardware finish would make the kitchen even more "airy and light" (polished nickel) and love the look of it on pictures. Matter of a fact, I was almost certain I was going to choose the bistro handle in PN, but then, when I put it against the the cabinet in my kitchen, I didn't like it. I thought it was too chunky/big and shiny. @Pippabean: Thanks:) My little helper is great and has lots of opinions - she thinks herself and artist and because of that, her opinions is the one that should matter....lol Actually some of her opinions are good - she told me the kitchen had too much blue and need some other colors:) The backsplash is a portuguese tile I took forever to find and I am so happy with it. It makes me smile every time I look at it because it reminds me of my home country and, mostly, of my grandma (she was Portuguese) who was fantastic! They are blue and white. On the other walls, I have simple subway tiles by Fireclay in Tusk color. Thanks again everyone!

"Dry Cleaning / Code "S" Upholstery fabrics labeled as Code "S" must be dry solvent cleaned only. Dry solvent cleaning is reserved for delicate or non-colorfast fabrics that can be damaged when using water-based cleaning methods. The term dry solvent refers to non-water, hydrocarbon-based compounds." If cushion covers are zipped on, take them to the cleaners. If not, use a solvent type upholstery cleaner on them.

I’ve seen lots of people on Etsy who make cushions. I’m not recommending this specific one, I’ve not used them, it was just the first that came up for me: https://www.etsy.com/listing/1194620266/elegant-sofa-cushion-bench-cushion?ga_order=most_relevant&ga_search_type=all&ga_view_type=gallery&ga_search_query=cushions&ref=sc_gallery-1-5&pro=1&frs=1&sts=1&plkey=604979af0461481e57f90174c85b73e323910b78%3A1194620266 It would be fun to pick a pattern you love and have one custom made, like bl said. Or a solid, with lots of great pillows and a cute little table ….