Thanks! I *was* good at Sketchup. I spent way too many hours working on that. I haven't touched it since the kitchen was done, so it would take me a while to get ramped up again. The switchplates were painted by a local (Denver) craftsman who specializes in that. His website is below Here is a link that might be useful: Taken for Granite

Have you considered adding a hint of color in your bs tile - perhaps something with a touch of green and grey to compliment the stone? The vitrail series from fireclay tile is available in many glazes and sizes, and I think it would go well with the overall feel you've created, a kind of refined rustic chic. Here are some of the colors you might consider, perhaps in a 2" x 6" or 3" x 12" tile. Sea Foam Celadon Loch Ness Crater Lake Here is a link that might be useful: Fireclay

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 )

Agree that the grey tiles to mimic wall would look great as well. I also agree with gyr_falcon regarding the corner of the grey paneling. I would remove the white trim you added and paint the seam dark to match the grout color. Just go to a craft store and buy a small bottle of black and white paint. Mix until you match the color then paint it. (Removing the corner trim will bring the gap size closer to the grout line size. If you feel you need trim there before painting, you could use a piece of 1/4 round trim instead, or a similarly narrow trim.) It make a more cohesive look. As with everyone else, Great Job!