I see no problem with mixing shiny granite with matte backsplash or vice versa. I don't see why they would have to match. In fact if you like different layers and textures I believe this would add to that effect. Haven't ordered either yet but plan on mixing hones countertop with shiny subway tile bs in my new kitchen. BTW I love your island! And the stools too, where did you get them?

desertsteph ~ Yep, I did them on-site. This was the second time I've re-laminated them in 10 years. Our original choice turned out to be (ahem) less-than-expected, to say the least. At the time they were delivered for installation, DH said that I should "live with them for a while" and if, in a few years, I still didn't like them I could replace them. After three looong years I decided it was time but I didn't want to rip out a perfectly good countertop/base or pay the $$$ when they were only three years old. That's when I decided to tackle the job. After much research and speaking to people in the trades is when I took the plunge. I have to say the first time it was definitely nerve wracking but the seconfd time was much less stressful. The first time I re-did them I chose a solid laminate from Wilsonart called, aptly, "Port". Here's a pic mid-process. Notice the fugly original counters to the right of the stove. Definitely not what I ecpected them to look like. I admit the mistake was mine because there's no way anyone can tell what a whole counter will look like when all you jhave is a tiny little sample chip. Duh. The problem with the red counters was twofold ~ because they were a solid with no texture or pattern, they showed every scratch. Because they were red, they faded quite quickly in the bright sun. So that's my story ;o) My experience has been that, unless the countertop is very light, I would stay away from a solid color laminate countertop with no pattern or texture. Tannatonk ~ Thank you for the compliments. We love our little piece of heaven.

I just saw the calacatta and estatuario in person. Polished looks amazing and much better than the silk version, but the rep told me that the polished version basically has glass over the top of it to give it that shiny look and said that glass can scratch. She said she hasn't heard any complaints, but I saw a couple on various websites from people who said they took great care with it and it still scratched. I guess the silk version doesn't have the same problem, but in my opinion doesn't look or feel very real like the polished. I wanted it for my backsplash and island but am reconsidering using a quartz on my island since it will be my main prep space.

pattisue-oh I love leathered with some color and movement. That looks AWESOME. Old house we had polished stone and did a matte slate backsplash. Liked it This house I have leathered stone and I am doing a polished/gloss splash. I think the contrast will be nice. If you haven't had leathered before oh I do love it. Have you seen tiles or pictures that you like? Try to find some pics and see if that helps you make up your mind.