Thanks for the replies! We definitely want good vinyl, double hung windows. With it being a new house, quality is very important. Energy efficiency is next important, thinking possibly argon gas between the panes. We are considering a grid pattern in the glass in some windows and would like input on blinds inside the windows as well. Overall, I want good windows that are going to last a long time (the windows in my parents 26 y/o house are in great condition and want the same for my house).

Grande - I'm not promoting Pella at all I'm just offering my opinion as someone who has used them and from contractors I've spoken to. To say they are garbage is contrary to what I have experienced and heard, of course there are better windows and there are also personal preferences involved. However I would bet that you are a window salesman and your comments should have that disclosure so people can understand what your motive is. Comparing JW to Pella is laughable...just look at the comments on this thread. I also steer clear of anyone stating something as fact...with no eveidence to support their "facts". "Anyone in windows knows this, it's a fact" is a very adolescent type comment. If you don't like Pella fine, you're entitled to your opinion, but try to state reasons other than obscure comments packed with innuendos. I am not saying Pella are the best windows, I'm saying they are decent and in my opinion I would use them over JW just from a support perspective. I don't know the other windows you suggested but I did say there are many local manufacturers that offer good alternatives...perhaps those are but I personally don't know.

MattGts Both pella and jeldwin make bottom of the barrel vinyl windows as does Andersen. Spend your money wisely and search for quality. Quality brands that every pro would recommend are as follows: Okna / HiMark- Soft lite- Gorell - Sunrise- Innovations by Home Guard. Also, 15K is very unrealistic for 45 windows; that cannot be done unless you purchase low quality windows and a " jack of all trades" contractor who will not do a proper install. I understand about having a budget , that said, do your project in stages. If you go the cheap route I can guarantee the windows will detract from your home plus you will wind up doing the job twice and that is a very expensive mistake.

Your kitchen layout looks fabulous...Here is a link to a great kitchen with three huge windows over sink as focal point...similar to your inspiration kitchen. (It's the Cote de Texas site with 101 great kitchen elements). http://cotedetexas.blogspot.com/2009/01/kitchens-101-elements-to-copy. You should also look at jen4268's posting of the update of her gorgeous creamy kitchen. She has three beautiful windows above her sink...