I think thin benchtops look stingy - we have a 40mm and it does not look too chunky. Would definitely not go for the 60mm though especially if you are doing a waterfall.

Ceasarstone recommend that you do not use their products as a splashback behind a gas stovetop unless you have a 200mm gap between the edge of the stovetop and the splashback due to the heat. If you change to an electric or induction cooktop then this distance can be reduced to only 50mm. If you are using a stone-look benchtop, such as the ones that you have mentioned, I would NOT go for a stone look printed on glass for the splashback as the reflectivity is higher with the glass and it will look fake. I would suggest tiles or a glass splashback that is a consistant colour, possibly matched to the veining of the grey in your benchtop which will complement your benchtop (which is the feature of your kitchen), and not distract from it. Matt black tapware and sinks are very on-trend, and when the fashion passes in about 18 months they will start to look dated. Classic chrome and stainless steel is timeless, so your choice really depends on how long until you put your house on the market... Best of luck with your kitchen, Dr Retro of Dr Retro House Calls http://www.caesarstone.com.au/Portals/0/Documents/2017-Kitchen-Splashback-Guide_Web.pdf

It looks pleasant enough , and personally I'd keep the benchtop as I like the warmth of the wood -- a bit of age and wear adds to the character IMO . I wouldn't glue anything over tiles -- I'd chisel and sand and get a decent base , as I'd be worried moisture , bacteria , food waste would somehow get into the grout and gaps etc , even if you put skirtings around the edges . Mind you , I prefer tiles , be they square or subway or modern with metallics , they seem more interesting than a coloured piece of glass ( splashback ) , even if tiles are potentially more work . Maybe I'd just update my tiles , but I'll want and see your new photos .

The 'after' shots are a bit budget -- did you save money bu using only half a black and white camera ? Not for me thanks -- its basically the same , painted white . It even looks like you re-used the cream panels around the top -- just weird IMO . No character or life , except the tap and lights , which admittedly are the highlights . Imagine the same benchtops and splashback , but with charcoal cabinets or even a reddish jarrah or similar cabinets .