Not knowing the sq. footage of your space, it's hard to push you in that direction... my tile is just those three walls (can't see the the third) - as the sink is set into that space and stands alone. I think all said and done it was $400 for tile and labor - but the guy just came in to do this job. You'll be bidding out for more tile than just this.... so labor wise, it probably won't add much to your overall labor cost. I purchased at a local tile store - but was just in Lowes last night and they have some really pretty glass accents (like the one I used) -- if that's your thing. It just added a little extra interest. The wall where my towel holder is (to the left of the sink) was just full of water drip stains. You can't get them out. It was either re-paint every couple years or tile. As for your sink choice - I truly believe it comes down to the look you want to achieve. The all white cabinet, with white subway tiles and accent tiles would look pretty awesome. I can't imagine that the fiberboard is any less durable than the pine....

Lisa, Thank You. You have been very helpful. You were so right. I kept forgetting the toe kick in the height. however, for me: My wall cabinets next to a high come to 106 and the high cab 4.5" + 80" + 20" (stacked on top) = 104.5. If I leave 20" between the counter and the wall cabinet then my stack of 30" wall + 20" wall plus the base and toe kick = 106". I guess I'll drop down the wall cabs to meet the height of the high cabinets (by next size and cut down), which will leave me 18.5" without a deco strip/light rail. I'll be in the 17" range. I guess stacking ikea cabinets doesn't work out easily for me. I picked lights for all the drawers. I still may keep it and decide later if I feel I don't need it for all of the drawers. I basically have all drawers in my bases, but the corners and one high. Gulp. I haven't gotten my estimate for everything yet. Can I pick your brain a bit more? what under counter lighting did you use? so you painted your own panels? Does It blend in well? Looks so in the picture. And that strip/panel hides the lighting? I considered doing this especially for refrigerator panels, since all but the front face will be covered up. I have panels from my existing kitchen that I could use. I'm sure this would save us money.

IKEA sells many floating desks and consoles, you might be able to find something like that there.

mcm is short for mid century modern that's a dresser of my dreams. so pretty, such great lines i must admit i do love it leaning off center..well i like most things off center. together with that. I'd be worried a bit. Hm. Is there a way to secure it some-and still leave leaning? another way is what tartan suggested..it goes on the wall where the floor mirror is, and some art you love goes above the dressser you can also turn it horizontally and hang it-but I love it being vertical..you probably do too in short I can see your "why"..if not for the possible slipping, breaking, etc I'd be tempted to leave as is "dated" is not part of the equation here, like, at all