Old skool, I am far from an expert on species and I freely admit that. That does appear to be a select grade on length, knots, ect. except for the wide color variation. What I am seeing in todays select grade material is alot more uniform in the graining and color. I would hesitate to buy that wood online sight unseen. I much prefer dealing with a local wood distributor when it comes to matters like that. Just my opinion so take it for what it is worth :) have a great day!

mclarke, Thanks for the welcome! I've actually lurked here for years--used the appliances forum to help select my Miele washing machine nearly ten years ago... In answer to your questions, I'd like to do as much of the work as myself (more time than money after closing), but I will NOT do something myself that is beyond my capability--I have too critical an eye, and would only see the blemish which would drive me bonkers... The house is a ranch (around here they call it a 'California ranch'), living room and attached dining room in the front of the house in an 'L' shape, kitchen filling in the 'L', entrance on the side of the house opposite the kitchen (back door is in the kitchen) with a small foyer leading to the middle of the house where one can enter the living room to the left, kitchen straight ahead, or hallway to the right that leads to the bathroom and three bedrooms. Outside is half brick (tan) topped with cedar shingle stained dark red. The house originally had a floor-to-ceiling picture window in the living room, which lent it just a little bit of prarie-style architecture (particularly with the stone fireplace), but that window was replaced with a giant bay window which only comes down to seat height now. Architecturally it kind of dumbs down the house a little, but it is a neat place for plants and things, and the bump-out makes it roomier as well, so I'm not complaining too loudly about it... Regarding the foyer, I was thinking more of a coarse, textured tile--specifically with Chicago winters in mind (I think we're on our 6th winter this year already)--the foyer is usually pretty messy from the glop on one's shoes, and I would like something durable and easy to maintain. I am concerned about style, though--I have the proverbial little house on the big block--I don't want to put in something tacky that doesn't fit with the neighborhood in terms of potential resale. Regarding the expression 'proud'--if it's regional, I think it's regional in occupation more so than geography--I'm a tool-and-die maker by trade, and in the toolroom referring to something sticking up a little as being 'proud' is not uncommon--didn't give it much thought, though it is kinda funny, now that I think about it. You can actually feel a difference in height of about three thousandth of an inch, believe it or not. And yes, the floor height difference is my largest concern, for aesthetic as well as safety reasons. Initially, I assumed matching the existing floor would be a major undertaking resulting in a major expense as well, but I do want it done 'right' and if that's what I have to do...

I'll third that one! I really hated them all until I saw the picture from a standing perspective. My distant second choice is #3. The second reminds me of dated Pergo and #4 is nice but looks terrible with the cabinet.

 Right now all they have done is put up the cabinets which are "White shaker cabinets " I picked out " Agreeable Gray" paint color for the walls w " pure white " trim. I stayed up ALL night bc I was informed last minute that the painter's were coming in the morning! I know I should of had this down but my mind is just going g nuts! it's not just the kitchen I need to rebuild it's the entire house !! Thank you so very much for any input! I sincerely appreciate it !!