We did two different cabinets and two different counters. For me the key was that (1) my island and some of my cabinets are white which is not too busy (you have black, the same thing) (2) I used only one counter material that was dramatic & the second was more even in tone/less coloration and (3) our two counter colors were in the same color family - both were basically medium gray - one all and the other gray with white. Pietra del Cardosa perimeter counters & super white quartzite island I was very nervous about this decision. Many people said 2 cabinet one counter or two counters one cabinet. But I am excited about our final decision to do both. I like a less uniform look. I worried that what I picked up looked to matchy but it doesn't in person. If you did a darker, more even tone stone like a black on the perimeter and something on the island that had more movement and just pay attention to how the counters work together you should be fine. As I keep having to remind myself, look at your inspiration photos or the FKB again to see what inspires you. I would also keep an open mind on lighter granites. Bring a your cabinet door, or other finish sample to see how they look with the slabs counters. You may be surprised and find something that works with both. But you don't have to be afraid to do two different counters if it the option you love. Regarding specific granites, I didn't find many grays. I loved pietra but it is not as durable as other granites and I love soapstone but is even less durable - both can be gray, the first lighter the second more likely black when "oiled" or very dark green, but gray if unoiled, but I don't know if people use them that way. The one mentioned in the previous post seems gray in photos but I have not seen it in person.

Even though you have a polished chrome faucet, the cabinet hardware does not have to match it. Your appliances are probably not polished chrome either. Depending on the style of the kitchen, you could go with brushed stainless, satin nickel, or maybe one of the antique or weathered finishes on both types of cabinets. Or find something you like that's similar in style, but different in finish that compliments each color of cabinet. Knowing what style your kitchen is would help for offering suggestions. Not exactly different upper/lower colors, but examples of different hardware: [traditional kitchen design[(https://www.houzz.com/photos/traditional-kitchen-ideas-phbr1-bp~t_709~s_2107) by other metros kitchen and bath Cheryl Kees Clendenon: In Detail [traditional kitchen design[(https://www.houzz.com/photos/traditional-kitchen-ideas-phbr1-bp~t_709~s_2107) by san diego kitchen and bath Tina Kuhlmann [eclectic kitchen design[(https://www.houzz.com/photos/eclectic-kitchen-ideas-phbr1-bp~t_709~s_2104) by san diego showroom Design Moe Kitchen & Bath / Heather Moe designer [traditional kitchen design[(https://www.houzz.com/photos/traditional-kitchen-ideas-phbr1-bp~t_709~s_2107) by seattle architect knowles ps

Hi tangy, Welcome to GW. This is a wonderful place for ideas, support and guidance. I love the idea of two different woods (& white) and counter tops in the kitchen. My kitchen does not have the space for this style, I love it though. If you are "tentative" it might be that you are just second guessing yourself. This is very common among those on GW. We worry, fret, can't decide, need input, need ideas, advice, and sometimes someone to hold our hand. You are not alone. The kitchen reno process can be rough but it can also be wonderful. Maybe these images can help you see what it might look like in your space. Good luck and keep us all posted. ~boxerpups This is from Finished Kitchen Blog another GW person LLEET Kitchen Islands Heidi Clare White Kitchens Antique Cabs Hi Lavender, These images are for you. Robins Egg Blue...Love it. Notice the different counter top ideas. All lovely, ~boxerpups Kitchen and Bath Ideas Fornor Lavoy 20 Shelley Gordon Viahou

Hi edelweiss- I am not sure how the wood lowers and white uppers will look to you 10 years down the line when it isn't so in style. Have you thought about doing all the uppers and lowers the same wood, with maybe two uppers glass? You could frost the glass or even just put an inexpensive peel-on film over the glass if you don't want the contents easily visualized. Then you could paint the island whatever color you want. Either white, or even that red that you like. With two different color cabinetry, (on the periphery and the island) I would not have a different type of counter top on the island, unless it were to be butcher block. I would also not get a red range top. Your tastes may change and a range top is very expensive to replace. Or you may need replacement parts, and red may not be available. Or you may sell, and red is very taste specific, and that may be a deal breaker.