Are you buying the shutters online? Or from a store? If online don't they have a contact address to email for further instructions? If from a store, don't they do installation?

I work in tiles and the normal splashback height is 600 mm. This is because overhead cupboards are usually this height above the bench top. In your case you don't have this so can do anything you like. If you tile to low 200mm etc the wall gets damaged - paint doesn't wear like tiles. There are many materials you can use as a splash back but most aren't durable eg Perspex. Glass and tiles have the edge. Textured splashes are in hence the hand made tiles. If grout annoys you use large tiles you can get them up to 1200mm long these days with rectified edges you only have 1.5mm gap. Use sealer on the grout, they are now easy clean. If you have the money tile to the bulkhead a much more luxurious look. Maybe in a charcoal. I don't know how these gaps are getting so dirty. I use spray and wipe with a toothbrush occasionally and it takes little time and always clean.

Hi We had the same decisions but in a new build We went with a floating hearth and mantlepiece between the 2, as I think they add to the fireplace feel, even if it is gas. I wanted non symmetrical so an art work or ceramic will go on the other side (not shown in pics) it doesn’t have the cupboard The hearth is the same tiles as the outside paving The other way for ours would be to have made the plaster to resemble an old fashioned chimney great & painted that. They issue we have is the fireplace has been supplied without a part so not yet complete Best wishes for your decisions

Ta heaps, Jodes. 2 years post reno and we’re still lovin‘ it - it’s so practical and easy to clean. I’d have yours any day too btw. You’re lucky to have a sparkie on tap. We don’t. Our cabinet maker threw in the strip lighting. I thought it was a nice but unnecessary extra; something I wouldn’t have asked for. But like you, I’m so glad it’s there - no working in your shadow. It’s brilliant. An absolute must in any future kitchen reno now. The MW is good but a bit impatient - it beeps too much! We had a 20yr old Sharp carousel, so the new one was a bit of a tech leap. It‘s pretty easy to get used to. We use the combo function a lot, and the rice program does a great job. Wish it cleaned itself tho! Since seeing your fridge, I’ve been on alert every time ours makes a weird noise, hoping this is it - bang - ceased motor. New fridge! Keep us updated about your window coverings. It’s a lovely looking home. You and your hubby have done really well. :-)