I just wanted to update my post with a final decision. They pressed us for a stain choice two months ago and they JUST STAINED IT ON THURSDAY! How's that for urgency? Anyway, after much thought and consideration we went with Minwax Walnut gel stain for the front door. Thanks to all who offered thoughts and opinions. I think it turned out beautiful. Here are a few pics as I know that's what we all REALLY want to see... :-)

IMO- While I agree with 82mainstreet about painting cabinets white and not expresso, I also believe you won't be happy unless the color combo pleases you. - First, what do you want to accomplish? Are you intending to live in the home for a long time? Or are you painting for resale? - If you are painting for resale, then classic white for your cabinets is your best choice. It has wider appeal. A future owner will find it easier to change the wall color than the cabinets. - If you are planning to stay in the house, you can be more personal in your color choices. - But be wary of fads, especially when painting cabinets. It is much easier to paint walls. From your photo, it looks like your cabinets are nicely finished wood. Personally, I wouldn't change that unless they are damaged. I would just update the wall color, but that is just my opinion. If you do paint the cabinets, don't be swayed by fad colors. I would still recommend white or maybe a pale cream. That way, if you get tired of your color combo in the future, you only have to change the walls to update the room. - Unless you are changing your appliances and flooring, very dark cabinets will probably make your kitchen feel overwhelmingly dark and warm. - Consider your lighting and how you want your kitchen to feel. Does your kitchen feel too warm or too cool when your work in it? - White will give your room a light and airy feel especially if paired with cool blues and greens. If that seems to make the room feel too cold, white or cream can be warmed up with a bright wall color like apricot, lime green or turquoise. Try looking through magazines for color combos you like...or look inside your own closet for colors that make you feel good.

i think you can definitely go dark. you get plenty of natural light, have white cabs, light color on walls. the dark gray will ground the space and tie in with other dark elements. i like the last tile on the board. it looks like a nice gray/brown which i love vs. an all gray tile, which can be a little cold looking. i would lay horizontal, i would have to see it in a herringbone pattern b/c i feel like that could be a little too much. i would definitely run it up to ceiling behind exhaust fan. i will add, although i like the color of the tile, i would do a matte finish vs. a polished finish. just my preference since i am not fond of "shiny".... what type of counters are they, i can't tell from pics.... your space is awesome by the way, you did a great job!!! Enjoy!!!! also, u can post this on kitchen forum to get more feedback

That sounds like a great color scheme. I can't wait to see pics.