No one on this thread has addressed the OP's statement: "please tell me what brands brands/models to write into the scope of work for the kitchen sink and faucet". It sounds like one reason you are frazzled about the sink/faucet choice is that you feel you have to put it in the scope of work. You do not have to stipulate these two items cause you should buy them yourself. Just stipulate in the scope of work that you will be supplying them, not the contractor. You will get a better price, and don't pay attention to the contractor saying he'll get you a "contractor discount". Really, you will find better deals yourself. If you buy a single-hole faucet, you don't even have to have it on site right away, since the size of the single-hole is standard for all faucets. You should specify the size of the sink and that YOU will be supplying it, and that it's self-rimming. But you don't need to give the contractor brand and model number info in your scope of work. Regarding the faucet, you will pay more for the brushed finish over a polished chrome finish. So if you are trying to find ways to save money, choose the polished finish instead. If your heart is set on a brushed finish, I think you should check out Costco. Not only do they have name brands and no-name brands (and I agree that no-name brands often are great bargains and should not be dismissed), but you have the amazing Costco return policy, which is basically they will refund your money regardless (except for electronics). I also would get a faucet with the integrated spray - I couldn't live without mine. I just gave a quick glance at the Costco website and they have brushed finished faucets for $99, $169. Regarding the sink - yes to the suggestions already given to buy your sink online at mrdirect, galaxytoolsupply, expressdecor or overstock. Just be sure of the dimensions you want, and I would look for 16 gauge, since all those sites have the sinks @ 16 gauge. I am a single-bowl girl myself, so I am biased toward a single bowl sink.

The head of the faucets look the same and would flow. However, I would be concerned if the Alira is not concidered a bar faucet it's scale might be off therefor competing with the Ladylux. The Alira looks low profile though. I love the Ladylux. Hope this helps!

Thanks for your help...the zodiaq cappucino is actually very light, it is creamy and has some pink tones in it. Everything so far is coming together. I just am really having trouble with the faucet, especially since I plan on ordering it online. I failed to mention the backsplash is going to be glass with all the colors of the kitchen in it. So the sink area is driving me crazy! The white window, the iron-like bronze pendant, the stainless steel sink, the creamy white cabinets, the light creamy/rose cappucino, and the glass tile with brown,cream,rose. I don't know if the light fixture and faucet in oil rubbed bronze will be too much in that small space. Then again, if I get the silver toned one it would need to match the sink. And then would it clash with the pendant? Thanks for your ideas.

petra66- Thanks. I am trying to hold off, but this final stage is frustrating. Also I am unsure as to the paint color I choose. I tend to like things very neutral and monochromatic so this paint color is a little out of the box for me. I am also trying to pick pendant lights--mainly do should I do 1 or 2 over the peninsula. I want to make sure the space feels warm and cohesive and you are right it it is difficult to do with all that cardboard and contractor crab around! Lavender- The fridge is FP and more of a brushed stainless as is the range hood and Bosch Range. The DW is covered by a matching lidingo panel so as to eliminate the too much stainless look since it is located right next to the fridge. DH also has not seen under the cardboard-well just a peek, but its not the same as seeing a whole room of that beautiful stone. Ughh-- I just want it done! :)