Hmm, I think they're both too cool, and that you need some more warmth, but what do I know, I've been going nuts this week going through countertop samples trying to make a final choice. I wish you the best of luck!

The more I look at it, the more I think the botticino is not right for the space - I don't like the way it looks with the soapstone. And I think the other is way too cool.

So, any suggestions for a (not busy) backsplash for soapstone counters, natural cherry cabs with gold'ish walls? I know the fall-back is a creamy subway, but was hoping to do something with a little more interest.

Sigh -- the search continues.

It seems that neutral is often the top choice here, but what about a tile in a complimentary color? But, of course, I like color. What about a soft sage-y green color?

I like the tile on the right.
Perhaps it is my monitor but it does not look too cool.
The only idea that comes to mind if you don't like your
above options is the one below.
A mix of cool and warm with soapstone and a natural
wood kitchen. Maybe this idea can help you.
~boxer

Here is a link that might be useful: GW post Cherry and Soapstone

Thanks for the input. I don't think the one on the right reads cool in person, either. But I'm still not convinced that it looks right with the gold walls.

While I really love the idea of a color tile, especially sagey green (my favorite), we need to try to bring some light into the space. But I think I may just try some out.

Boxer -- love the look of the 'splash above, but I think it's too busy for our taste/space. We have a stone fireplace in the adjoining family room that goes from floor to ceiling.

Both suggestions are great and I think I may try to find some to bring home (sage and something like Boxer's example). I know I've loved the look of slate a la the famous Jeffrey Court tiles...

There are so many incredible tiles out there, and I can't seem to just nail this yet! I keep thinking that I need at least 50 different kitchens/houses so I can use all the different tiles I've loved while shopping!

If you fall in love with a particular tile that goes with the kitchen cabinets and soapstone, but you don't like it with the gold paint, couldn't you just repaint?

green onyx that would look lovely with soft gold walls

Here is a link that might be useful: green onyx

Hi Julieh- I completely understand your dilema--I have been having trouble finding just the right backsplash for about 8 months now, too! Today I was in Home Depot and was looking at tiles (again-- they keep bringing in new things!)and I saw something that might work for you, since you are looking for a "warm" but not beige marble.
They had some very beautiful 2 x 2 " White Grecian" marble (on 12 x 12 sheets)--It was much "warmer" in tone than Carrera. There was lots of beautiful, subtle gold and brown veining in it as well as a little bit of grey. It was very soft, and not very busy. Of course, each shipment of "White Grecian" might be slightly different. At least with the big box stores, however, you can kind of pick through them and get the lot with just the right shading or variation. I'm not sure where you live, as I'm sure that their in-stock selection might vary by region. I am in Maryland. That stone is supplied by MS International, --just in case you have one of their granite and stone wwarehouses near you. You can order it in various sizes and styles at HD's online site.

I agree that the carrera and beige botticino is not working with the walls and countertop.

By the way--have you noticed that Home Depot is carrying lots of Jeffrey Court (high end supplier) mosaics in stock now? So much for people who say that Home Depot tiles are not good quality! HTH.

Here is a link that might be useful: white grecian marble tile

Thanks everyone -- much more food for thought. It may just be another year before I settle on a backsplash ;)

Judydel -- logic would absolutely agree with you in that the simplest solution would seem to be to repaint. Except that pretty much our entire first floor is painted that color! I actually love the walls with the cabs and counters, so I'm trying to find a BS to fit all the other pieces.

Thanks for the heads up re: the grecian marble -- I'll check it out.

I think the search will continue. I have another marble that I've kept coming back to, but have been hesitant to bite the bullet. I'll probably have to borrow it again and ponder for a bit. It's a danby marble, which has more caramel in it and I loved it a year ago.

I don't care for either choice to go with your paint color. I am not even sure if they are great with the counter, but that is secondary.

How about Ming Green for the marble bs?
Remodelfla has a very pretty green glass tile bs with soapstone.