Beautiful clean modern kitchen! You have a great opportunity to put your personal stamp on the space with a unique backsplash. As you've heard already there are some different approaches. I'd probably place the backsplash up to the wall cabinets and up to the base of the hood. Then continue the backsplash at the same height (18"?) behind the sink. Then place an inspiring colorful picture above the sink to break up the wall. Here's a picture with pendants that aren't too obtrusive. Having multiple levels of lighting at different lumens makes a more inviting feel to the space. I couldn't decipher your flooring, but you may also want to consider adding some nature elements like a type of wood flooring, wood stools, etc. Good luck! If you need software to plan out materials check out our Home Designer software: http://www.homedesignersoftware.com/

It comes in three sizes, as well as only coming in the white. It'll be elegant over your dining table.

I love three in ones because if one bulb explodes, you've usually got a fair few backups before you have to completely fix the bulb (but that's just the laziness in me coming out). In my opinion, I don't think you need a demisting mirror because that's what the fan is for in the three in one.

Changing out my pendant lights dramatically changed my kitchen for the better. The slim modern horizontal shapes made the room feel wider and the colour changed the colour of the wood grain finish of the cabinets.