We did two different cabinets and two different counters. For me the key was that (1) my island and some of my cabinets are white which is not too busy (you have black, the same thing) (2) I used only one counter material that was dramatic & the second was more even in tone/less coloration and (3) our two counter colors were in the same color family - both were basically medium gray - one all and the other gray with white. Pietra del Cardosa perimeter counters & super white quartzite island I was very nervous about this decision. Many people said 2 cabinet one counter or two counters one cabinet. But I am excited about our final decision to do both. I like a less uniform look. I worried that what I picked up looked to matchy but it doesn't in person. If you did a darker, more even tone stone like a black on the perimeter and something on the island that had more movement and just pay attention to how the counters work together you should be fine. As I keep having to remind myself, look at your inspiration photos or the FKB again to see what inspires you. I would also keep an open mind on lighter granites. Bring a your cabinet door, or other finish sample to see how they look with the slabs counters. You may be surprised and find something that works with both. But you don't have to be afraid to do two different counters if it the option you love. Regarding specific granites, I didn't find many grays. I loved pietra but it is not as durable as other granites and I love soapstone but is even less durable - both can be gray, the first lighter the second more likely black when "oiled" or very dark green, but gray if unoiled, but I don't know if people use them that way. The one mentioned in the previous post seems gray in photos but I have not seen it in person.

When you say 'dark island' what did you have in mind? And what type of travertine. The traditional cut often looks swirly and is considered soft and full of pits (of course a higher level product won't be so bad), whereas a grain cut travertine (my favourite!) is a stunning linear look that can be a bit 'harder' (without so much pitting). The travertine might be the star. The cabinets might be the star. The ISLAND in a different colour is going to STAND OUT which means it will probably be the star...or the counter tops could be the star. All of this means you could have too many Divas in the same room. Can you share your pics for your flooring and your cabinets (colour and style for both cabs and island). Not to be rude but the question begs to be asked: Where is your Designer in all of this?

It looks like hickory. Without a close-up image, it's hard to tell if it's site finished or finished by the manufacturer. Google hickory floors. You'll find many similar images.

Not a very good photo example. I would say they are not hardwood or engineered hardwood either. The colour tone appears to be a washed oak.