Computer monitors don't show true colors - so keep that in mind. I have seen online SW Sea Salt and SW Rainwashed look very pretty green / gray - but, I saw a Sherwin Williams paint deck and both looked really gray. If you think you might want to paint again, get some large pieces of foam board and sample jars of paint. Paint the foam board and move it from place to place and view in different light and different times of the day. Your Valspar Bay Sands looks similar, and I kind of like it - from someone who is not a gray person:) I understand the running around with a paint chip:) I started removing wallpaper in our home before the moving van arrived. I pulled up carpet the first day in my first home - scared my husband since new flooring was not in the budget - but I knew there was hardwood underneath. I admit if I had your kitchen, my husband would come home to find I'd removed the backsplash and am busily watching YouTube videos on dry wall repair or beadboard installation:) You want to make your space comfortable for you. I will agree also with your husband to take your time especially for larger, more expensive changes. In a new home, an unexpected expense can come up (roof, heating) so it is good to be prudent. For the kitchen, be sure you like the layout and your cabinets are in good shape before adding expensive surfaces. Many suggest waiting 6 months to a year before making changes in the kitchen as long as the kitchen is functional. Some things to keep in mind: A 4" splash as you have is considered a backsplash and most pros here will say that you should not put a splash on top of that. The exception is a wallpaper or similar, or beadboard. Backsplash comes after countertops - so don't spend a lot on a new backsplash if you want to change the counters down the road - there is nothing wrong with your counters - just want you to know the order of operations. Laminate can be ordered without the short splash if you stick with laminate. This is actually paintable, textured beadboard wallpaper. I don't usually like "faux" products, but this works well in certain circumstances and might be a temporary splash that works with your style. This older kitchen used beadboard and granite: https://www.houzz.com/discussions/finally-finished-with-kitchen-updating-dsvw-vd~4512247 I used the beadboard wallpaper in my basement kitchenette - doesn't show up great in this photo: https://www.houzz.com/photos/my-pics-work-in-progress-phvw-vp~65270573 The most functional change I made in my kitchen was under cabinet lighting. This lighting is so helpful but also makes a kitchen prettier - add a nice glow. It can get overlooked, but don't - makes a big difference. My sink is a Kohler Whitehaven "short apron" which can be installed on a standard sink base cabinet. The Kohler Vault is a similar stainless apron front sink that also comes in a short apron. The Vault also comes in a top mount if you stay with laminate.

Using a matching grout will make it appear as one solid sheet unless you are right up close. I prefer some definition and would go with the lighter colour, but it really is a matter of personal preference. I think I read something about the grouts with glitter having some sort of problem, but can't remember for sure - you might want to google it.

potchiemagoodleberry, I couldn't agree more with your idea. I would absolutely LOVEEEE to do a metal roof and I think it would make this house really pop. I'm convinced it's the option and best fit for this style architect. However, with the obstacles in place, that being the 4 sky lights, cost and remaining time I plan to live here, it isn't in my best interest. I don't know what the return on imvestiment is, but I'd also have to fight to get the HOA's bylaws changed. They current don't allow it, however, I'm confident I could get a variance for approval. I did consider just doing the portion over the garage with metal and the other portion asphalt due to the four skiy lights, but my gut says, it would look too chopped up and ultimately it wouldn't look right.

Changes have to do w species and uv exposure. your oak should be okay but get the exact stain you want . usually they can customize it a bit . ask for uv block to be added but if you want a light look but definitely no pink red or orange just tell them . its the yellow in the light one id find the most difficult to work with . get a little pigment to cancel the yellow