I can only speak from experience of tiles and Karndean. We have two dogs, live in the country, we and the dogs are in and out all day. The dogs both used to slip even on terracotta ( back in the old days), and, i'd be worried about shiny tiles, especially with larger dogs that could slip far more easily and cause themselves damage. The tiles were dark and had to go, as they showed up the dirt. The grout was the biggest problem, as it was easily stained, and just not practical with dogs. We swapped to Karndean around 5/6 years ago and haven't looked back since. It's simply the best, unscratchable, hard wearing, versatile, easily cleaned surface ever. We live in an old cottage and it had to fit in, so we went with Van Gogh, a floorboard effect look, complete with etched woodworm holes! Love it.

Hi Nikhil. What's the actual colour of the cream paint so can attempt to find a granite although it is hard online as colours show differently. I'd also keep upstands in the granite and maybe even the splashback for a clean look. I'm not a pro hence take my comments accordingly (!) and I know you didn't ask for layout advice so I hope you don't me saying but I'm not sure if the sink is in the most practical position as you can't stack dishes next to it etc. I'd also check the safety regs for a gas hob so close to a window as it may potentially be dangerous if the window is open. I'm also not sure where the fridge freezer is in relation to the rest of the kitchen?

Hi, we at Dual Designs are often designing kitchens up to the ceiling. It is usually because of the client requiring more cupboard space, along with making sure the design will suit their beautiful dream kitchen. We have designed cabinets up to the ceiling in large and small rooms, both work really well. It mainly comes down to person taste, some people would never leave a gap at the top, with the 'dust trap' word mentioned. Others who don't mind a gap would often say they can't reach high units and don't want to use a ladder. We always consider both the practical side along with the design and give an honest assessment to help our clients. I would think taking the cabinets up to the ceiling can work though a good designer will confirm this for you, so I hope that helps and good luck

Composite Deck? Once down you'll have very little maintenance for years. You could find a colour that matches your Ikea tiles too. Let me know if you need any assistance.