One of my clients chose subway tile which I do not like-but we compromised. So we did a square herringbone. And since you did staggered height, and a wood hood over the stove-make that your focal point-totally get a “focal point” tile for the stove area-I included a pic so you can understand what I’m trying to explain, lol.
The pic throws the pattern of the accent tile a bit goofy, but its a beautiful pattern....I can give you the info on the tiles if needed. But also look at the white glass tiles-it turned a bit gray with a white grout-with the square herringbone pattern it looks SO unique. And not dated :)
Q