Well, unfortunately I now have another thought. There is a solid surface by Formica, that is the exact same color as the lighter one that everyone likes, that DOES have speckles. It is actually one of their eSurfaces, with some recycled material mixed in. I just ordered a rush sample of that, and I will ask my carpenter friend if he or someone he knows could do a solid surface countertop. Apparently you just use normal carpentry tools (saws and routers and sanders) to cut and shape them.
Today, in the light, I think either one would work--the lighter or the darker one. I think the very light floors and backsplash will provide plenty of brightness. But the solid surface gots me thinkin'....