@Tracey Metcalfe I don't think they are dirty, not that I noticed anyway. I'll be taking my Karcher steamer to all the tiles / bathroom / kitchen once we are in and before the furniture goes in, regardless. Where are you in the south of France? The house we're moving into is about 25 mins north of Montpellier. :)

Hi Pachacat, This seems an exiting little project! Because of the sink i would definite do a splash back. Have you thought of a mirror splash back ? Using mirror will make the space more spacious and brighter. If you definitely wish to do tiles then what about dark tiles and navy blue unit like the below concept image? Shelvings above the bar like "Noir London Design" suggested is definitely a good idea, which you can either do the shelves in timber or glass. Thank you and good luck in your project.

I think your instincts are good here - a light worktop would really lift the space. Maybe a lightly speckled white? Marble you will need to be careful that the vein matches in colours to those tiles or it will feel a little off. And a warmer colour on the walls (it doesn't have to be strong but it will bring the room together as one) will help. Your floor looks to have some yellow tones in it so you will need to look at greys with a yellow tone (Like FB Cornforth White) or soft greens work well with greys and white and make it feel cosier. Definitely cost up the difference in replacing the worktops versus changing the tiles too as it may be cheaper. In terms of lights and bar stools what look are you aiming for? Is it modern minimal and to feel sleek and streamlined or do you want something a little softer with a more natural feel or something completely different? Dependent on that it will help focus what to go for in terms of bar stools and lighting as the options are endless as I'm sure you know! From glass to rattan shades and everything in between! Happy to help further if you need it too!

Hello, Congratulations on your new kitchen, we hope you're enjoying it! We understand that choosing kitchen tiles and backsplash could be confusing, there's so much in the market! You could go with a similar material you've used for the worktop, so it feels and looks continuous. You could also go with a mirrored look to expand the space, visually. We love Kit Kat tiles, they're making a comeback in the market. I'll attach a few images so you can get some ideas! We are Bespoke kitchen and wardrobe designers and provide free-of-charge initial design or quotation services. Our showroom is based in Notting Hill, London, but our services all over the UK.