I would use the lightest shade from your countertops (cream?) and go with simple subway tile. There's pattern in the countertops...don't add more.

Go to a good tile showroom in your area and see what appeals to you! There's plenty of choices and you can bring samples home to see them in your light.

Thanks for the input. I like the sub. The stacked would be too busy imo.

There are lots of ways to do simple...I would not use subway as it too ordinary for your elegant home .....I would do simple by way of choosing a simple color that goes well with your counters..then I would choose a little more interesting tile shape...or layout....if you don’t have a decorator and wish to visit the tile store...I would pick the color first..and then ask what shapes come in your color..there are so many shapes that add detail and beauty without looking fussy..... if you go with square or rectangles ask about a more interesting lay out...squares ...for instance can be laid out in a diamond pattern..rectangles can be laid out vertically instead of horizontally...something as simple as that adds distinction to a basic shape tile...

I do like the idea of using a different shape. But that entirely depends on what look your going for.

Try “bone color crackle or irregular surface” subway and put under cabinets lighting in if you don’t have already.

I just looked up bone color crackle and i love that! Not too white! I will get samples. Thank you, Flo!

Speanard, thank you! I’ll have to look at some.

The second photo that Spenard posted of pencil-tile backsplash is quite dated. Avoid those. I suggest white or cream subway tiles because they will brighten up your dark kitchen, and will go with your granite and your floors (not sure what your floors are), and also has been in use in kitchens for a hundred years so isn’t going anywhere. Check out Daltile Rittenhouse Square for a reasonably-priced option, yet good quality. I recommend for you the Rittenhouse Square 3x6 semi-gloss in White 0100 (not Arctic White). They also come in many other colors (see link and click on “+” under the colors section).

https://www.daltile.com/product/Rittenhouse-Square?shape=Rectangle&size=3%20X%206&finish=Glossy&color=White

Thank you! I do like this! It’s clean and simple, which is what i was going for. I’ll get some samples.