I thought that Ditra required 2x2" as the smallest recommended tile. Any thing smaller isn't fully supported within the Ditra pattern. I looked up this on Google. But I can't post the link, due to GW obstructs the link. So type in "Schluter ditra and small tiles john bridge" and see if this will take you to an archived thread about this topic.

I don’t care much about the linen closet as they really don’t need that much storage in there. Just need somewhere for towels. We have additional storage in the hall closet that could work for sheets etc and each girl has a large walk in closet which could also hold sheets and extra bedding. So I think I would prefer to either remove the linen closet or make it smaller than changing the entry.

Update - Conversation with the contractor went well yesterday. He reviewed the work and agreed that it all needed to be torn out and redone. He ended up firing his tile worker and assigned "one of his best" to do the job and stated he would be with him each day to supervise the work. He apologized profusely and said he would cover the cost of all new material and wants to ensure we are getting a quality product and are happy with the end result. While I appreciate his apology and willingness to cover materials, I'm still very skeptical their combined ability to deliver. None the less, with the new found knowledge I've gained from this wonderful community, I will monitor the work throughout the process very closely and post photos of the progress to this thread. There is one comment our contractor made that has stuck with me so I'd like to ask it here. He stated when installing a tile application of our size (12x24 porcelain), it is normal for there to be somewhat of a gap between the tile and wall. This is primarily due to the sheer size of the tile and that in order to have it perfectly level, there will be some mortar build up. Is this true? It seems to me like if they get the durock hung correctly, no matter the size of tile, it should be applied with minimal "gap" from the wall.

First I sure hope you are not installing the tile this size tile requires a really experienced tile setter and IMO a 12 x24 tile in this space would be a better choice I like 12 x24 porcelain tile the same for both bathroom floors and shower walls and a stacked pattern for both allows for any decrepencies in wall height ar wonky walls . I hate niches and for sure when using those huge tiles What has been done for waterproofing ? That is the first thing to address and please show us the space.