livewire - Thank you SO VERY much for the plan! I loved it but my hubby instantly saw issues with the oven/micro combo right by the doorway to the hallway and the formal dining room. Hubby couldn't visualize the island for some reason. The guy who jokes at me about my vision skills cannot see what you meant. I think I know exactly what you meant, and the island would be LOVELY! Misiwa - thinking it over about moving the micro/oven combo. LisaA - I like your design, but unfortunately we are planning to go with a counter depth refrigerator. Do you think it could be pulled off with a counter depth fridge instead of a fully integrated? I haven't ordered our fridge yet, so you have given me something to think about! BP - You sound like my mom, lol! So worried about dishes and utensils. I appreciate the concern, it makes me think about something like Lisa's design with the main sink not in the island.... Jdez - Thanks for the vote of confidence. By "like it is" do you mean the original kitchen or something that has morphed since that point? Sena01- I personally really liked your idea. My husband just thinks I would miss my cabinetry on that side. Thinking it over... Okay, I hope I did not leave anyone out! I want to thank each and every one of you for your input and especially those of you that took the time to draw my kitchen out or design it on a computer program! I apologize for not being on here sooner. My tooth is killing me, and my daughter started back to school today. Had an emergency call from my builder and had to drop everything and meet him earlier today. Safe to say, it has just been a Monday! You guys really are so helpful. I am open to more ideas or critiques...

Whether or not it is "foolish" to piecemeal the project is why I'm asking questions. We've heard plenty of stories of folks who install it after the fact, once they have the cash to do so, (and often save a bundle) after all the more immediate cash needs are addressed (e.g. landscaping). It's only somewhat of a cost issue, because if we can get a better deal at a later date, then great. It's also a "don't want to finance it" issue. The cost goes up significantly when interest is tacked on. The house will also be significantly more energy efficient than our current house, so we have some questions as to just how unbearably hot it may (or may not) get. As you can see, it's not a total slam dunk either way. Hearing that the "prewire + line set" option done by the builder, and followed up with installation by a "certified dealer" (of course) of whatever appropriate condenser unit may be unwise is helpful. Why would the unit's warranty not be filed by the tradesman? On a related note, just got word that the builder's chosen unit is a Rheem 13 SEER. I will go do my own research here shortly, but any thoughts on this brand etc would be appreciated.

I really like the idea of a courtyard to get more windows! OP, I'm not sure if that's ok for this type of structure, or something you'd be interested in, but it would be easy to do with the stairs (for example do switchback stairs and a hall landing, and have the courtyard opposite the stairs. Obviously it would reduce your SF but it might be worth it for the additional windows.

No. The cabinet color doesn't work with the floor. They will be adjacent to each other. You will notice that they don't work together. There is still time to turn the ship before it hits the rocks. I don't like the grey flooring and find it to be overdone. Grey is a hard color to get right because of the varied undertones. I suggest a mid-toned wood colored flooring or a quiet, solid ceramic tile. Unless you are going for a very specific Scandinavian vibe, the lighter wood tones will look off in 10 years. The grey floors will be the butt of jokes at that point. Mid-tone will work with all sorts designs and will age well. Tip: When you go to put your selection board together, don't put it on a surface against a wall with a design. Your eye will pick up the colors of the floor and wall. When I get to final point, I take the elements outside in the natural light. You would be amazed at how things change in a more natural light.