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 )

@Frances Bolton hmmm, was that a minimum for freight delivery? I was just on there about to checkout with one box of zellige tiles and there’s only a 10sq ft minimum. However, they did have some weird note about being able to pick up directly in only CA WA and TX. I wonder what happens out of their New Jersey location? Haven’t called to inquire so may be worth doing that if you’re considering it.

@dianeknill6, did you move forward with the Zellige tile backsplash? Is it behind your stove? If so, have you had any issues from the stove/oven? We are looking to have a Zellige Tile backsplash. However, when looking at the Cle Tile as an option. We came across the below warning in their Zellige tile specifications, about placing the tile behind an oven. We will have a Thermador oven that we've read about a good amount of people having discoloration and scorching of Quartz and Marble from the rear vent. We've also reached out to Cle Tile, Riad, and Zia Tile, which they all seem to not be aware of the below issue. We're trying to find out if this is a Cle Tile specific issue, or something that happens with all Zellige tiles. Information is limited out there...

If you can visit the Fireclay store, it's worth it. It's a fairly refined tile compared to the rustic stuff you started with and kind of a different feel. But playing on the table making your own tile blend can be fun. (And they will make just about any trim piece you wish!) And if there is a good Pratt & Larson display somewhere, take a look. They have an even bigger selection of amazing glazes (and also do trim pieces). (I like trim pieces. Can you tell? You don't want Schluter edging your tile in your awesome kitchen do ya? No way....)