your interest really was in the look of the space.....which is valid. Even after accomplishing the switch to a range or that kind of upgrade, one can still be unhappy with their space if every time they walk by or walk into it, the old surfaces jar your nerves and personal aesthetic. But the space really would have me looking at a whole appliance package, and ditto the range on the perimeter concept. Yes-fridge/dishwasher AND range....figure something out with above range microwave or hood with maybe small countertop microwave. And once that "package" got worked through the budget, think about the perimeter in laminate or solid surface and maybe a contrast for the island of quartz or butcher block . I might consider Ikea or a basic butcher block for everywhere-it can be really reasonable....knowing you may do a "gut" remodel later. Just enjoy the wood look, oil it up frequently right away....and just let it take the wear and tear knowing the counters and cabinets will be replaced. I would probably even just leave the painted wall for backsplash....with the decent cabinets and some new hardware and either laminate or wood on counters, and new appliances, you'd be really in a good position for a while.

I think it's best to focus on getting a quartz that is either very solid and/or in a contrasting color to your marble (a distinct shape like herringbone also helps). If they are too close in pattern, the faux finish will stick out, imho. Regarding the backsplash behind the stove -- some people have had problems, especially those that fry a lot. I've been diligent with sealing and wiping up after use. (As aside, we have pure white quartz in one kitchen and gloss black granite in another -- both show crumbs and smears, for different reasons. The grey quartz shows the least).

@Beth H. - thank you for your comments. I don't think we want to have dark counter tops. The kitchen is open to our family room. The minimal wall space in the kitchen will be painted a light blue color, as will the walls in the family room. We were thinking about: a) white cabinets and island b) the Calacatta gold marble 3" x 6" tiles for the back splash c) light(ish) counter tops on the perimeter and island (perhaps with some grey coming through d) medium brown hardwood floors We thought about using walnut for the island surface, but decided against it due to maintenance issues. If we didn't want to have dark counter tops, are there any other options? Thanks!

Thank you to everyone who responded, very much appreciate your iput. The owners of the company agreed to replace the counter at their cost and do it correctly - this was achieved only because we could back up our claims of an incorrect install based on the information provided by you all! Sammy - unfortunately, my sister lost her two dogs and cat in the fire; she was not home. The cause of the fire was the slight reverberations of the built-in microwave caused a screw in the mounting bracket to slowly over time rub the the casing off an electrical wire in the wall; the fire investigator had never seen this before and is now using this in their training. She would trade all of her possessions to have her pets back, a year later it's still devastating for her to have lost them. Again thanks to all and hope everyone has a happy, healthy, safe and prosperous New Year!