Hi Heather, whatever the selection - we always recommend to have the cabinetry finish match as closely as possible to your wall finish - as to not look like two contrasting whites, you may just consider repainting after you've made the selection. Dulux Natural white or Lexicon Quarter are both very popular selections - and not on the too cold or too warm side either. We also find that most clients too will mix finishes - for example using a grey for the upper cabinetry, or on the island bench - to create contrast, you may notice that between all white walls, benchtop and sink the white becomes overwhelming! Good luck - we are loving the sounds of how it is all coming together so far!

I love light filled kitchens so I wouldn’t have any overhead or long cupboards in black - all white then can have black on the island Remember a little black goes a LONG way as it absorbs do much light

Depending on your taste of course, I would introduce some colour - either as tiles or a glass splashback. Personally I think you will need to fill the entire area otherwise there are simply more lines to take in and will create an unwanted feature. We've had a glass splashback painted back and it was super easy to clean. For one kitchen, we've gone for a bright yellow to give it some pop. You can also have photos too but it's not as easy as the file sizes mean that they need to be taken/supplied by a professional photographer. If tiles is your preference, there are many great patterned tiles out now. Good luck!

Pure mineral stone would be my pick, from the two laminate colours mentioned. The Caravelle tiles are the feature, so you would not want a bench top that will compete for attention.