Our outlets are laid out horizontally and yes the back splash is a continuation of the counter top material. I have also seen people use the same tile back splash that they used throughout their kitchen. We are renovating our island to remove the bar height portion - have you considered keeping is all one level? It will look more open if it's one level and you'll have more usable counter top space, stools won't have to be so high... just a thought.

The cabinet company will be making a base out of 2x4s and secure them to the floor via tapcons all over the place. Then, the cabinets will be placed on top of that base, and screwed to the bases. Then the Skin will be applied and secured to the base and to the cabinets along with toe kicks. on the back of the cabinets and on the base a 3/4 piece of MDF will join the cabinets to the bases. There will be three corbels on the island with the steel supports as well. The countertop will have a radial edge and start around 3 or 4" overhang on the sides and then go up to around 12, (most likely around 10") in the middle. I am worried about it tipping over but they swear that it won't go anywhere.

Here is the shop address and pictures of the valances I had made. They’re lined, the pattern in the larger one is matched up so it looks like one piece and the seams are under the sashes. They’re beyond perfect plus the turn around time was great and they returned all the unused fabric to me. Sorry, the pictures don’t show them very well. Oh! And if you find a style you want that they don’t have on their site, just ask them, they will most likely be able to accomodate you. I plan on having valances for my walk in pantry and our masterbath made by the as well. https://www.etsy.com/shop/TheIvyTrellis?ref=l2-shopheader-name

Thanks for input. Removing backsplash not an option & of course decisions are easier when replacing all! But, sounds like your idea is to tie new counter in to backsplash color. The backsplash & granite do look more color complementary to each other when seen in person! The granite background isn’t as white as appears & is warmer. It’s Santa Cecilia granite but the lightest example we’ve ever seen of it.