I agree with Courtney about the tile. My personal choice would be linear mosaic that mixes in the colors of the cabinets, countertops and wall color. Subway will work too though:))

The idea of open shelves is a good one too. I would mount two shelves that are 3' wide to the right of the sink. Align them one over the other, and for contrast use a medium brown stained wood. Display pitchers or just a few ornamental bowls - think of it as a piece of art for your kitchen.

Yep definitely the tile not only behind the sink but carried around behind the cooktop too ...to make a statement be grave and tile to the ceiling!

I would consider 3 pendants over the peninsula or maybe a monorail system for the kitchen.

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.

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Yes - the flooring is dark hardwood.

I agree with tile but I would love to see some color!

yes - what do you think about for colour? a canvas photo? or...

You could pull off so many bold colors, take your pick! Cobalt blue? Lemon yellow? Lime green!

I think tile with shelves on top of the tile. There is not enough storage for dishes in that kitchen.

The space seems unfinished, as far as the amount of cabinetry. The blank wall that you will stand at while using the sink is throwing me off as to what the design plan was. There is not enough wall storage, rather than hodge-podge together some open shelving I would recommend finishing the space appropriately.

I would add open shelving.

I see from the photo you already have fixtures in place for three pendants. Depending on your tastes with that canvas you can go sleek industrial pendants, colored mini-pendants, or even ultra modern crystal/chrome pendants. What are your hopes for the overall feel of the space?

cups and plates on a shelf is