please ignore mess but here's a pic of my floors in case it helps.

I like the subtle color of the hex tiles. Would look beautiful with your floor!

Hex looks a bit bathroom to me

None of the above. Use a contrasting tile for the backsplash, in an actual color, like blue/green/etc.

If you love neutrals, pick chevron. Its adding movement. The counter could be slightly darker then.

The kitchen cabinets appear neutral too. If a dash of colour is required, pick a contrast tile. The counter could be a neutral shade then.

I'm worried the chevron will clash with the floors (too much visual movement in different directions). I'd place the tiles against the floor to see if they compliment vs compete. I think that's why the Pro is suggesting not to use any of the three.

Middle one would look great!

Love your floors! Who is the manufacturer and color? I voted for the middle but like the one on the left as well!

Here are some ideas for you:

Gray cement tile with pattern:

Glazed terra cotta arabesque in turquoise:

Dramatic black:

Reclaimed brick:

Moroccan zeliig:

Glazed green crackle:

Navy blue glazed fishtail:

they are all very stylized tiles. make sure you really love what you pick!!

@hiyaluv thank you! they are Vermont oak laminate from My Floors made in Germnay.

Okay so I love all these backsplash suggestions but I'm actually really nervous to do anything too colourful or different (hence why I picked such neutral ones originally). I like long rectangular shapes (not too small). and I want something shiny. Also i have this weird dream to be able to put a bouquet of fushia coloured flowers on my counter and not have them clash with anything. I know white kitchens are played out but I still love them lol. this kitchen was so ugly before (dusty rose counters and blue heart wall paper, even carpeted floors) so I think it's making me want to go in a really safe direction. I'm confused on what to do. good news is now we have our counters so hopefully this will make the decision process easier...updated pictures below!

ignore weird handle on pull out beside dishwasher and cut out in side of cupboard (wiring for cabinet lighting is going there and will be covered with an end panel) and faucet also not all put together yet lol. Just got the counters yesterday.

Get @Beth H. on this thread. She's fantastic at picking out those super cool colored tiles without being over the top. She has a TON of resources!

Thanks @colbran - I actually have another thread on this. I just realized this was my original post... for some reason this one wasn't picking up any traction initially and also I couldn't find it when I searched so I created another one which Beth H. did provide me with some really great options as well! (sorry for any confusion).

@ElleN - thank you for that feedback and I think you are right. The Hex is definitely out for me now after many bathroom comments. I do like the middle one, but yes I think you are right about it being too bold. And also agree about the marble.

I LOVE the options you provided above, shiny, creamy - exactly what I think I need for my off-white cabs. The first photo you provided I think may be the answer. I really love the herringbone pattern and think it adds an element of interest while still being "safe" enough for me. Thank you!

Glad you like it! Just a piece of advice, make sure your tiler uses the correct (white drying) mud underneath the glass tile or else you'll end up with being tile instead of that great white.

Here are some other options that are less expensive than hiring a tiler https://www.houzz.com/projects/users/info959?lt=hl

If you don't want a colored tile, then do a white crackle rectangular tile, handmade, so you get a nice variation in texture. You can find them in various sizes--3 x 6, 2 x 6, 4 x 8, 2 x 8, etc. Try looking at Encore, Heath, Fireclay, Sonoma, or Winchester for really beautiful, simple tiles.

I have glass tiles on my backsplash and LOVE them! They're so softly reflective it makes the whole kitchen more bright & airy plus super simple to keep clean.

Elongated glass tiles would look stunning in your space especially in a herringbone or chevron pattern.