view from stove to great room to show how kitchen ties in

This one shows the floor color

i think you can definitely go dark. you get plenty of natural light, have white cabs, light color on walls. the dark gray will ground the space and tie in with other dark elements.

i like the last tile on the board. it looks like a nice gray/brown which i love vs. an all gray tile, which can be a little cold looking. i would lay horizontal, i would have to see it in a herringbone pattern b/c i feel like that could be a little too much. i would definitely run it up to ceiling behind exhaust fan.

i will add, although i like the color of the tile, i would do a matte finish vs. a polished finish. just my preference since i am not fond of "shiny"....

what type of counters are they, i can't tell from pics....

your space is awesome by the way, you did a great job!!! Enjoy!!!!

also, u can post this on kitchen forum to get more feedback

Dark to break up the lighter shades. I prefer a matte finish too.

Here’s an idea. If you really can’t decide on the tile color, buy two small paint samples in colors close to your tile. Paint two large pieces of poster board and set them up behind the countertop. It won’t present an exact picture of the installed backsplash, but would at least give you an idea as to whether you prefer charcoal or light grey. And agree, simple running bond pattern is best.

Good luck with your new home.

Thanks so much for your suggestions, much appreciated! sprtphntc7a the counters are a calacatta gold quartz. I will see if the tiles come in a matte as I like that idea too! My only concern with the darker one was that the color wasn't an exact match to the floor, island or island posts/beam...........does that matter? Is it ok if its close but not an exact match?

I would say the light because that's my preference, but both would look good. You really can't go wrong. I would also go with laying it horizontally. I'm not a fan of herringbone in general, but I know others like it.

i think its fine if its not a exact match. as long as its in the same family it will be fine!!

I think either would work. If you do the light gray use a dark grout to tie it into your fireplace stone. These look like a textured hand made subway tile? For that reason I would lay them straight and horizontal. Please by all that is holy take the title all the way to the ceiling behind your range. Ive noticed a trend in builds where the builder stops them right at the hood. It looks unfinished!

I think I would go with a warmer tone backsplash as a nod to the wood in the house.

This is nothing like your kitchen except the white and the color I think would look great as your bs.