Thanks Steve. We selected the colour from actual grout samples (not a colour chart) and yes we also had the tile with us at the time... the lighting there was pretty poor though :/ A little confused, you say that raking out joints is no big deal but then that using grout sealear is very tedious... do you mean removing old grout not so hard but applying new grout is harder? Now I'm starting to wonder if they did indeed use the wrong colour, as we had also selected another even lighter grey for the wall tiles and wondering if they used that on the floors too... and even if they did, I'm not sure what can be done about it now :/

anaewlo - did all this just over 12 months ago so know how valuable an extra pair or eyes and a clearer head can help. The "little" things are the ones so easily missed and the ones that make you ask "what was I thinking" or "how did I miss that". You could take the tiles up higher immediately behind the hotplates, the range hood would then tie it all together and you could even have some nice artwork each side of it. The only concern I have - are the 2 tiles in the second row centred over your hotplates? Fine if they are as you will have that high part nice and even. If not, I'd a have good think about it. Otherwise, assuming you will paint the walls in a semi gloss paint, the lower tiles will take the brunt of the oil and what goes on the walls will be pretty easy to wash off, it is just a matter of wiping it down after each cooking session. There are times to match things up and there are times to blend. With your downlights, keep to white (assuming you will paint your ceilings white). this way they tend to disappear into the ceiling

Thanks everyone for their comments! Update: husband has 'over-ruled' on this one. Forgot to mention that the vanity top will be Night Sky Ceaserstone (ie black). So he wants the dark grout. We will definitely be using mould inhibitor and ensuring everything is well sealed. It's all his fault if it looks horrible ;) Will post photos once fully complete. (I am now a little scared...)

Hi Brandi, Thanks for your advise I will take a look at Pintrest. I have decided on the white tikez & light grey grout as I hzve been advised about that colour schem from 2 tilers. What colour bench tops are you having. I am still deciding on black stone or grey stone with a f,eck thru it