I had the same thoughts before reading everyone else's posts...The 3 x 6 is more 'standard' and traditional, while the 4x8 would be a little more unique and bring a modern or industrial twist or zing to your kitchen...which I can like with traditional elements. Depends on what you want it to do. And Plllog does have a point about smaller tiles fitting in around things better, but I wouldn't necessarily let that decide it for me. Will one fit in the spaces using whole tiles, while the other will require cutting all the way along? (Remember to figure in grout lines) Even if I liked one better, if the other fit in whole, THAT could sway me to change my mind.

Thanks prill...I'm leaning towards only doing tile in area to the left of the casing...then in the window area just doing paint and the casing down to the counter. I guess I'll just have to be more dilligent with cleaning. The Reef was the first tile that spoke to me...I really thought I was going to go for a more solid blue, but reef is so much softer....it allows me to play up the color of the walls more...not that I have a lot of walls...And, I found out that my designer can get it for about 12.50/sf where I was quoted around $15/sf.

The tile guy came and made some suggestions based on the space and the 7 outlets. I then went to a very nice tile showroom. The saleswoman was incredibly helpful. Given the size of the area and more importantly the fact that we keep the toaster, coffee machine etc on the counter (and that won't ever change) she helped me decide on simple is better. So I have decided to go with a 2x4 crema marfil in a bricked pattern. I am still thinking about adding a liner just below the outlets to add something. Any suggestions? TIA, kelly

didn't have time to read all the answers. I have no backsplash and have never regretted it...been over 6 yrs. It is painted with BM matte...which has ceramic in it. It is as beautiful now as it was when first painted. I love the fact that I can showcase other things ...art etc in my kitchen and no competition. Also if I ever want to change it is as quick as a paint brush...expense is minimal..paint only ! All in all I think it is serene as you point out . Here is one pick. Since I have a lot of high heat cooking in my kitchen..built in deep fat fryer as well as gas cook top I can definitely speak to the longevity of paint only. c ( more at this album )