Thats interesting about the chipping. I have the Meile Slimline and I would say that we occasionally have experienced the issue of not getting something completely clean, or certain plastics dry. However, I had another brand of 18" DW before this one and it did not get lots of things completely clean, did not get things dry and also blew plastics and other lightweight things around inside & often left them filled with dirty water. So, in terms of an 18" DW, it is not perfect but much better than what I have experienced in the past--but you're right, at this price maybe one should expect more.

I think your update is warm and contemporary. It's very nice. How do you like your track lighting? DH seems to be partial to them, but I need some convincing.

I love Bruck track lights. Initially I was very much in favor of surface ceiling lights because I thought that track would not be a good source of light. But with under cabinet, under hood (good light!), pendant over the island, and track lights I have enough lighting in the kitchen. I actually bought 10 track fixtures and have space for 4 more if I need extra lighting. In general I find Bruck really good in terms of looks, functionality, and light. The salesperson recommended Mini Piras as a good fixture. Currently I am using a floor lamp since the transformer for my track lights need to be changed to accommodate extra lights. My contractor recommended recessed lighting and I read in a few places that recessed works well too, but I did not want to drop the ceiling.

What other sources of light do you have in the kitchen, sumnerfan? I don't think track is good as the single source.

I remember how excited I was when I learned you were using mahogany. Thanks for the reminder and the update. Hope this wood has worked out for you.

I look at your kitchen and wonder why I couldn't be content in my pullman style kitchen. Then I remember that it was also a hall. Yours makes so much more sense. Looks efficient and useful.

Appreciate the candid comments about the appliances.

Thanks for your reply newyorking. I will also have ucl and light in the hood, plus something over the sink. My kitchen is not wide enough for an island so no pendants. The tracks proposed would be the primary light source. Is that a bad idea?

Beautiful mahogany cabs and love your floor tile! I also love how you framed the right window with shelves and a box on the upper part. It looks like you really maximized your space in a very classy style.

I hope you'll post more pics with your countertops installed!

Thanks, everyone. Flwrs, that was entirely my contractor's idea. My contractor has his own cabinet shop and he put his all into my kitchen, which is why it has come out very well. The shelving, flat panel over and below the cabinets, everything was his idea. He even helped redo the kitchen plan when I was confused about my architect's plan.

Sumnerfan, I don't want to give you the wrong advice. I used track lighting in the kitchen just for one month after renovation, so I am not sure if it would be good as a primary source of light. I have not been using them for the last 4 months - my transformer needs changing and I have been a tad lazy with calling up my contractor. As far as I remember, the track lighting was fine. My island lighting is really more aesthetic than functional, so track lighting is my main light source. I would still recommend confirming with someone else.

Beautiful Mahogany cabinets!!!
And the tile floor is gorgeous. Your cabinet maker
(contractor) must be a treasure of talent and artistry.
I am amazed at the precision of your cabs and even the
grain of wood. I especially love the builts in around
the refrigerator. PERFECTION!!!!!You must be thrilled
with how everything came out. And who cares about a
triangle work space this is far more practical and
lovely.

A few questions....

What paint color did you go with?

Is the Labrodite leaning toward green or blue?
When you get a chance post a picture of the countertop
and the matching backsplash. I imagine it is stunning.

Did you go with undercab lighting?

Do the windows bring in light that changes the color
of the wood? I can only imagine it looks even better on
a sunny day. What direction does this kitchen face out
the window. GOsh I am nosy.

Where did you get your hardware? I love it.

Is there wood only around the right window and not the left?
Or am I looking at a unfinished left side?

I can't help my questions I want to see more of your
beautiful kitchen.
~boxer