I wanted wood windows so I could paint them the color white I liked :). We went with Marvin double hung windows. Wood inside, aluminum clad exterior, SDL with 6 over 1, and screens only on the lower sash (so the exterior grilles wouldnt be obscured behind screening). It fit the style of our house. There is a window forum and if you have an idea of your budge and needs, they may have some suggestions for you. Windows are often an "easy" place to skimp but they are one of the more expensive things to upgrade later. You can always add hardwood to a room that was initially carpeted, or change a kitchen from vinyl flooring to something else. And you can do that one room at a time. But windows are pricey and changing them later is really disruptive (to your siding and trim, too). One last thought ... If your house has a porch, consider the outside appearance of the windows up close.

Most of the negative information on vinyl come from people who just don't personally like it or from people who wanted to go cheap and bought a low grade vinyl window. Fiberglass is good to use for windows due to it's durability. Might want to look at composite windows also. Interstate and Okna are worth a look if they are available to you.

Daobrien your choice for alabaster cabinets will be so pretty! I have sw alabaster cabinets and love this white! I would choose a gray that has more chroma in it than repose gray. You need more contrast for your kitchen island than repose gray will give you. Look at sw Dorian Gray and Acier. These colors are two down from repose gray. Also look into Chelsea gray. I would pick alabaster for your ceiling in flat paint. SW alabaster for trim in semi gloss. What paint color are you painting your walls?

I painted my entire interior home with Behr Ultra Scuff Defense Stain Blocker and Primer: satin for moldings and doors, matte for ceilings and walls. Color: “off white”. I even received a 10% military discount from Home Depot as I am a retired US Air Force Captain. It looks great all times of the day. People always comment how good it looks too. Easy to apply, great coverage. I've used BM and SW paint brands in the past and love the Behr!