Pine is defnitely the softest of the three choices. The grain of oak is more pronounced and generally can be seen through paint - not necessarily a bad thing, just need to know if this will work for you. Maple is generally considered the hardest and smoothest of these three choices. When looking for some savings in our kitchen, we ended up having our painted cabinets made from poplar. A soft wood, but handled paint nicely. In use for about a year now with a ding here and there, but nothing major and since ours were "distressed" a bit anyway, this is not a big deal for us. Good luck with your project!

I might leave the soffit as is and change the dining room walls. I don't think the benefit of painting the soffit is very great. I would actually change the hardware on the cabinets to a darker finish-oil rubbed bronze or pewter, and a style less colonial-more transitional......larger handles/ stylish in some way you like. ....the all wood look of the kitchen along with dramatic granite is a plea for stronger hardware statement .....

I need to get myself off craigslist and fbook buy/sell groups! I love getting a deal and I love reusing stuff. I think I just figured out why my house looks like a mish mash. Check out this sofa. It's a Hancock and Moore in a taupe color. 1100 used seems like a crazy high price, but I know the brand is $$$$ and quality. I think we are going to have to take a break from taking out floorboards to go have a look. My hubs will love that idea. :)

To have the best flow and harmony, paint everything one color. Isn't having one space the reason you opend up the space? Do coordinate the new color with your fireplace and floor in the warm direction. A color consultant could really help you tie together your furnishings with your visible "givens," fireplace, floors, big sofa. A warm white would work beautifully in your living area and kitchen. Some of the pros can make suggestions. Could you take some photos in daylight standing with your back to the French doors?