Original Poster Update I've finally made a decision on cashmere carrara quartz countertop (MSI) and Masia Gris Claro tiles. I'm hesitant about the cashmere carrara because the photos I have seen vary so much and the sample is so small... If anyone has some real-life photos of the cashmere carrara countertop, I'd really love to see them. They are coming to do the templates in two days so I'd still have time to change my mind. Thanks!

We have a small problem with the hood vent. Our wall is not thick enough to hide the pipe so the contractor had to cut out a section of the drywall (see top right of first picture). Contractor will patchup that section but there will be an angle drywall from the ceiling to the right wall and we do not want to see any of the dry wall modifications that have been made. Right now there is 8 inches from top of the molding to the ceiling. Do you think we should install a 3-4 inch filler between cabinets and crown molding? Or will the filler look weird? Please provide your feedback and recommendations.

The quality of the sink may affect how it reacts with water? If it is a medium to high quality sink, it may not blot? I know of one, that does not. It may be the water could use a water filter on the faucet too. A water filter may remove the mineral left behind by the faucet water? That may be the key? Also, if you have the black sink and determine it does not have hard water spot issues, I would go with a type counter formica(that is not the brand, but the common term referring to what it is) Wilsonart Solicor. It is beautiful and the edges will not have the 'black line' you recall from former formica edges, so it mimics solid surface. They have some tones that will look very nice with your kitchen colors! http://issuu.com/wilsonart/docs/wilsonart_solicor_laminate_brochure?e=1726292/14148260

Start with undermount lights, as wiring might have to go behind the backsplash. I think the 3rd tile on the black sample board goes well with the countertop next to it. And combines nicely with the blue. The swirls/pattern on the photo below is too large and would clash with the woodgrain (in my opinion). White tiles would be too stark.