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 )

I would do a marble backsplash. Or, a light gray. Both are good go-togethers with the white and black as well as tying in your island. If you decide on a random color, it will need to relate to something else in the room. Using Suzanne's picture as an example, note the ceiling in blue to match the tiles.

White, white white!!! You have quite enough going on in this room already!

We need pictures .