We are really hoping to do something other than tan tiles, which is what generally comes up with a Google search.

This post was edited by nataliecm4 on Sat, Mar 22, 14 at 3:41

There is a reason you might like to go plain.
My mom has the same venetian gold counters, with cabinets that are a honey maple color. She wanted impact on her backsplash so they just installed something like this, and now she regrets it, as it is way too busy. (This is not her kitchen, but rather a photo I pulled from google search)

Next up are two with quieter tile backsplashes, that still have some interest.

So she's going to have to decide how much "busy" she wants.

A vote for quieter 6x6 tiles on the diagonal here with matching grout. Lots of beautiful color in the counters and rich colored cabinets.

So, you do have a bs. It's about 4" tall and made of the same granite as your counter. Are you planning to remove that strip or tile from there on up? You have a lot of switch plates and outlets on your walls. Have you thought about how you would deal with them if the area were tiled? Also, what's your budget in $/sf?

You could just paint your switch plate covers and call it a day.

I have similar elements. My cabinets are darker and less orangey in real life. I went with a porcelain mini brick that I love!!

At one point, I wanted a fancy backsplash but heeded the advice from GW.
I used a bit of creativity with the tiles and did include the mosaic.
I wouldn't recommend the mosaic with your DM's kitchen with the granite 4 inch backsplash already in place.

Food for thought... :) 2x4 beveled crema marfil.

Just got ours done, after 2 /12 years without! :)

Good luck!

one more, close up

Sandesurf-absolutely love your backsplash. I have similar dark cabinets and light granite. I am looking for a similar tile in my area. I want to have it ready when the weather breaks so I can break out my wet saw and start tiling.