My granite supplier advised using tile from the granite up (no granite back splash). She could have advised the other way and made a little more money, so I think she advised based on her honest opinion. I also like the "no granite back splash" look better. Just guessing, I'd say the only reason to use the 4" granite back splash would be if you weren't going to use any other back splash at all (a more low-budget option, in my opinion).

All, thanks a lot for your honest feedback (please keep them coming!) Raehelen - This has been also a dilemma for me: the overhang question with the 24" tiles. I have researched this quite a bit. Maybe should post this on a separate thread but for now here is a run down: There are few options: 1) Going for ultra modern look and stop at the cabinet depth (this should be OK only if the total depth of the cabinets stops at 24" - Otherwise would look weird with doors and drawer faces protruding beyond the counter edge). 2) Finishing the edge with a trim piece: Either similar to the material of your cabinetry to give it some consistency or use a metal edging (there is a cool company names schluter-systems (www.schluter.com) that offers such solutions especially designed for tiled counters) 3) Running a small strip of the tile in the back  Can be the tile itself, OR a completely different tile, likely the same as the backsplash. Thinking in the line of 1" mosaics that continues onto the backsplash. Can do lots of things here just requires a bit of creativity. Bellacat_2008 - The tile is called Steelwork, color Argento (it comes also in a bronze/copperish and a darker/black tone). The manufacturing company was difficult to figure out  as most suppliers wonÂt tell you their sources. But it is called "Fioranese" I think. Bellow is a link to a website that has some pictures of it in different settings: Here is a link that might be useful: tile pics

Two ideas (ok, maybe more like three): 1) If you are really handy with a wet saw and have lots of patients for the ones that will break on you, miter (=mitre) it at a bit less than 45 degrees, then miter (again, =mitre) the edge of the last tiles in the run. gently sand the sharp ends, and do a really careful setting job. 2) http://www.schluter.com/139.aspx Schluter makes edges and corners, i think the Home Hardware carries them in the great white north. Limited finish choices, though, like white, almond, aluminum. these also can be used when you stub your toe, i.e., "oh schluter." 2.5) if neither of these appeals, what is the brand/color of the tile you are using? most tile has some possibility of finished end pieces, if they do exist, the people on this forum will hunt them down for you. Happy Canada Day!!!

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 )