Thanks for your comments; jb-I knew from the start that there would have to be a change in the orientation of the slabs due to the layout of my kitchen as we did no demo or moving of anything. I did discuss with our fabricator (I spent about 2 hours with him working on the layout) the best approach to seaming without affecting the integrity of the structural support of the cabinets. I guess I'm more of a pragmatist than perfectionist because quite honestly, the seams bother me not at all. I just love my stone!

Thanks all, very very helpful info. Boxerpups, special thanks for these great photos, would never guess where the seams are in your counters. If things would work out so well for us, I would prefer they use caution with my handpicked slab and add a seam. You make a very good point about my confidence in the fabricator also. I think that must be the true source of my uneasiness. I do feel they are competent because they give all the right answers to questions (that I learned to ask from this forum), and they are well established in this area, but I just didn't click with the salesman and I only overlooked that because our contractor, who is wonderful, overall likes them. The owner also is great. So every time the salesman tells me something, I don't trust him. So I think what I will do is ask about their ability to hide seams and show them your photos if you don't mind--to give them an idea what our expectations are. Then I can put this to rest and move on. Thanks so much again everyone! And please stay tuned for backsplash questions, that is the next step!!

" can the parts be installed at the corners in a 45 degrees connections to keep the veins flowing nicely " This particular dilemma was 3 years ago so I am sure they have come to a solution by now. mariam shadi

* Should sink stay on island or move under new window. I like seeing everyone while doing dishes but hate the constant mess in the center of the room. If the sink moves from the island, we'll replace it w an 18" prep sink I would move the sink to the area beneath the window. Think of it this way, the 'constant mess in the center of the room," vs. a half hour at most doing the dishes with your back to everyone. * Which layout below is best? Between option A and B: Depends upon your opinion as to which item you would want to look at from dining area, a refrigerator or a pantry. I really want a larger pantry, the one that we have is double doors and always hanging open when the kids are in and out and such an eyesore. I would think the first pic would have soft close doors, so even a gentle hip bump would be enough to close them. As for a corner pantry, I have never looked at those so have no opinion.