Todds: from my experience, you shouldn't need to have the rangetop in place for templating, call your fabricator if uncertain. If you simply want to install the rangetop before hand because you are eager to get it going, then I would temporarily install it and remove it when the granit guys come. Your fabricator is also correct in saying that the thickness between stones can vary. In fact, thickness in the same stone can vary.

Thanks you guys! The coffered ceilings were the artwork of the trim carpenter. He is fabulous... He actually did the trim for my parents house when I was a kid. I cannot wait to see them painted. I plan to use BM Revere Pewter for the walls, Sw Alabaster for the trim, and Bm Rockport Gray inside the coffers. Right now my dilemma is paint for the dining room.... Anyone used Martha Stewart Plumage? There is a deep tray ceiling and wainscoting that will all be white. I would like something dramatic in there. When I look in my closet I see various shades of teal and fuchsia. I don't think the fuchsia will work for the walls, however. :). Ideas anyone? For the paint/cabinet installation order, it is what it is. I really trust my builder (he's my dad) and he has been working with the subs for a long time. Everything will be done to my satisfaction, so no worries here. But, thanks for your input and concern.

aliris - i actually did talk to someone at AJ Madison and they said they would have to order it. That would mean mid August and then whatever time to ship to me. Quality bath or home and stone both would also order it, but I am trying to find it in stock somewhere. I just want to make sure it would be someone reputable in case I have another issue...I'm a little nervous now. The damaged sinks were quite different. The first one was cracked on the bottom...it actually looked like a forging or manufactring defect. The second one came with a hairline crack along the rim and going down the corner on the inside. I actually talked to DH last night and asked if we should consider a SS sink instead ( but remember my granite has been cut for this sink) but we both agreed that we really like the looks of this one...cracks and all! Soooo I think we are going to continue our search. We leave for vacation next week and I think I'm going to try to focus on that and maybe the time and distance wil give me some fresh perspective. I realize that I won't be able to have one delivered before we go, and it looks like I won't be able to find one locally, so we'll just have to finish things when we get back. And I did mix up a batch of Sangria last night...it's like 1000 degrees here so who wants to cook in a kitchen anyway!! :-)

OHHHH my Gary - that is goosebump gorgeous. Love the idea of passing food, etc. right out that window. I love it! I just had a thought. I can imagine walking up to the window and placing an order! Brings a whole new level and meaning to take out :) Thanks so much for sharing. florantha, thanks for the link. I'll check out the Quoizels as well. I'm not sure what the most important feature is. The cab inserts are the mottled stained glass, not the knots. Sorry, I should have been clearer. The colors are blends of green, blue, amber, burgandy tones. Yikes, I forgot all about the plant containers! Thanks for the reminder! Rembrandt, oops I mean Kode...Thanks so much for taking the time to create those incredible visuals. They help a lot. I like the Amber as well. The white and clear glass wasn't working for me either, but I think desperation is setting in. I don't think I need the recessed. The under cab pods throw enough light, I think. I'll have to wait until the SS counter is installed. BTW thanks for your kind "outside of the box" comment. Most people think this is "very" taste specific (in other whispered words "she's gone completely mad" :) So after your helpful feedback, here are some ideas. Am I on the right track yet or am I still off? Maybe a 2 light mini in: Or Thanks again for your help! Got to run. SS just pulled into the driveway!!!!!!!!!