I keep going back to this.....

The sample above looks good. What about white-glazed thin brick? I think that could connect with both your uppers and lowers. Your kitchen is looking great!

Glazed thin brick would be beautiful, but it is not generally considered budget friendly.

What is your budget in $/sf?

I really like larger format non-traditional subway tile like the one you've chosen above. Another of my favorite looks is classic subway, of which you have many samples, laid out in a herringbone pattern. With a gorgeous layout, you may have already found your tile in there somewhere.

You could always paint the wall and catch your breath a bit.

I hope you find something you love.

hygenist, I am taking my sample tiles and using them to tile my birdfeeder post. I like your sample #2 (from the left) for a little color in your backsplash.
Can you tell me what the samples in the photo are? I am particularly interested in 3, 4, and 5 from the left.

Just ordered a sample of the white glazed brick! Thanks for the suggestions. Kind of hoping I do not like it.....due to the higher cost.
I know some types of backsplash materials have higher installation cost, would brick be one of them??

Localeater 3,4,5 all come from fireclay-awesome tree hugging company;) tile samples foggy morning, shiitake, silver haze.

Thanks for all the help. I've learned so much through this website!

Installation costs should be comparable. Fireclay recommends Laticrete products, so specify that mortar, pointing, and caulk be Laticrete in your contract.

hyjenist - we have all been there - I have about 100 tiles in the basement - Fortunately did not discover FireClay until my decision was made as we were over budget already.
If you are near A2, I am willing to share my collection.

Overall - I like the lighter versions with that beautiful soapstone and white cabinets.

Thanks for the suggestion of glazed brick. I ordered some samples of Fireclay's cotton/snow thin brick and think I've found my match! I love it! Of course it's 3X the price of my original choice but I'm going to stay here in ABB world until I can afford it! Thanks Again GW.

Love the glazed brick. It will be worth the wait. Two color samples in your pic?

Yes two color samples. We will most likely use the majority of cotton with a few snow bricks. Similar to the photo fireclay sent me.