didn't have time to read all the answers. I have no backsplash and have never regretted it...been over 6 yrs. It is painted with BM matte...which has ceramic in it. It is as beautiful now as it was when first painted. I love the fact that I can showcase other things ...art etc in my kitchen and no competition. Also if I ever want to change it is as quick as a paint brush...expense is minimal..paint only ! All in all I think it is serene as you point out . Here is one pick. Since I have a lot of high heat cooking in my kitchen..built in deep fat fryer as well as gas cook top I can definitely speak to the longevity of paint only. c ( more at this album )

Sunshine: you might want to x-post this in the Kitchens forum -- lots of traffic over there, and the kinds folks will happily go gaga with helpful suggestions. Good luck!

You could go almost any direction, and although I cannot see your flooring, the best advice is always to get sample tile and test on site in various light throughout the day to be sure the colors don't clash with existing finishes. Taj Mahal can go a lot of different color directions that it is hard to see on a computer screen, so testing in person is imperative. Backsplash depends a lot on what shape and style you like best, so without further direction, it's hard to provide specific advice.

Puleeese do not put in extensive areas of white subway tile! This seems to be a common avenue for homeowners and/or designers when they want to avoid making decisions about color. In my opinion, adding white tiles to your beautiful kitchen will turn it into a boring space. I really like your use of neutral wood flooring, white cabinets and the mix of stainless and black for appliances, and I believe now's the time to brighten up the space with some use of color. I'd install the backsplash material under the cabinets and go up to (what appears to be) the common height of the window, door and cabinets, including the space above the sink (background of shelves). Have you been to a big (good) tile store to see what's available? If you keep an open mind, you should be able to find several styles and colors that you like (and that pick up on a color from a decorative item on the over-the-sink shelves or that complement other colors in your home)--and you can usually bring home tile samples. If something you like is on the expensive side, consider using it in a limited way (a few above the stove/below the hood in a special design or a running line of them under the cabinets, etc.). Then go for a simple (no busy patterns), reasonably-priced (and coordinating) "field" tile for the remainder of the space--one that is simple enough so it doesn't clash with the items on the shelves, and keeping in mind the other black, white, stainless & wood colors in the room. As for the wall color . . . Once you have the backsplash installed, it should be easier to pick a wall color. Just bring home some store samples of paint colors to see how they look at different times of the day and at night. It usually takes me several trips--to cull out the ones that don't work and expand on the ones that do work--before I can make a decision. I suggest you use the same color (light or medium intensity that doesn't overtake your now-pretty backsplash!) above the backsplash & cabinets and on the ceiling, which will give the impression of a more spacious kitchen. Have fun and good luck!