Are you doing a tile BS? That might help with the counter color.

Just looking at your pics I think the black is too harsh and the white is too blah with the white cabinets. The overall feel is soft, so I think you need a soft counter color but one that has contrast with the cabs. How about using a shade from your hickory flooring.....that will also provide balance.

I was going to ask what you might think about wood counters. But joanie's idea is a good one, too.

I originally wanted a walnut island and marble perimeter counters... till I learned of the cost of the walnut. EEK!

I was thinking something in a brownish tone would be nice.

Here's my inspiration board:

I also have that fabulous copper sink, so that also brings some warmer tones up the mid level of the kitchen....

Your new kitchen is going to be beautiful! Love what you've chosen and your inspiration board.

For counters, what about crema martial marble rather than white/Bianca?
It'll have more warmth and blend nicely with your cabinet color and flooring.
I think the black might be a little too strong...

Further to the above, perhaps a brown/ beige granite?

Maybe a Taj Mahal or Madre Perola quartzite -- marble-like but with more green/grey/tans depending on the slab?

Have you looked at boticcino marble? Some have lovely green blue veining.

Espresso Caesarstone?

A vote for soapstone counterops! :)

Take a look at the lovely blog and wonderful home featured in "For the love of a house" ....

Here is a link that might be useful: Pinterest -- pin of the kitchen countertops

Here's another example!

Here is a link that might be useful: Pinterest -- another pin of soapstone

Why not stick with the beige and blue like this White Macaubas granite.
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I think with the cream of your cabinets neither white marble nor black soapstone are your best options. I think you should be considering between the creamier quartzite/ granites like Annie posted, or a brown granite or quartz product.

I agree with roarah.

Definitely not black.

I agree with the creamier versions of marble or quartzite. You will however have to start your actual countertop quest by visiting the stone yard and see what's available. I can't believe walnut to be more expensive than the quartzites or more exotic marbles, and the walnut island would be perfect in your kitchen.

I think a brown would look nice. Maybe Caesarstone Wild Rice, Linen, Mocha. There are a couple of others. Or look at the options in other eng. quartz lines like Cambria or Silestone (and there are others).

Thanks everyone. DH and I visited granite yard yesterday. I think what we are going to do is carerra marble on perimeter counters, and antique brown on the island.

I really appreciate the input!

Sound beautiful.

Oh I love the sound of that, you are creating a beautiful kitchen, wonderful choices.