Now even though this is sanded grout from what I read I will be OK to use this on the small grout lines on the walls. Is this right? Yes, it is. Even though it's sanded, the sand is much finer, allowing it to get into the smaller grout joints. Is this fairly easy to work with for DIY Pretty much, yes. The only difference between using Permacolor and any other grout is working time. You want to grout smaller areas at a time until you get used to it, so it doesn't dry up o you too fast. (I almost learned the hard way first time I used it!)

Sounds like a very nice package! Our last house we built (last year) I went with the monogram line as well (cook-top with griddle, oven & advantium oven, dishwasher) I really, really liked the monogram (LOVED the advantium once I figured it out!) I think they are a great product. We are starting a new build, but this is a different house and I decided to go with the GE Profile line instead. This round - I am not getting a gas cook-top. Although I LOVE the look, we don't cook much, and I hated cleaning it and keeping it clean, so I am going with the induction cook-top. I am sure you'll love your appliances!

Congratulations on making your decision. Soapstone is a beautiful material and very easy to live with for a long, long time.

Here in the Bay Area I feel like things can so easily get out of control...I totally sympathize with trying to get the budget back on track. Unfortunately we had some VERY bad news seismically speaking about the new requirements for the Peninsula. So, the budget got way out of wack during demo but before construction. Very quickly I had to make adjustments as we were doing exploratory digging and realizing that our foundation footings were not at all deep enough to pass the City's rules. I don't think you will ever regret splurging on the cherry cabinets though. A real investment and well worth it!