I started with a special request for the Timberlake Capistrano style cabinets (I love you full-overlay style), I never know if that would have got approved but I figured they would charge even more than their most expensive standard option, the Rushmore Butterscotch. At this point, I really can't spend that much on cabinets.
Last weekend, I decided the Scottsdale Maple Cognac with the Espresso island and Tan Brown granite might work so I changed my special request. I figured it would save me money, even though I continued to have doubts. Especially about the Tan Brown granite - its just not my type of look.
Then, I decided the Scottsdale Maple Espresso and Santa Cecilia granite would be ok (with the hope that the kitchen wouldn't be too dark). However when I went to CTI and M&R, I saw examples of the Santa Cecilia granite that I just can not risk getting. Both places confirmed the Santa Cecilia they've been seeing lately is this yellow-gold-mustard blend and not the prettier more tan/brown-based background with crisp dark veining. If I could guarantee I could pick my slab (and guarantee they had a good slab to choose) then I would love that combo. But now I know there are versions of Santa Cecilia that just aren't what I want and with my luck I'd get one of those. The representative at CTI pointed out the New Caledonia granite and for awhile I was going to be ok with that, even though it would be kind of a cold, dark kitchen.
NOW, however - I'm having
As of right now, here are my options:
Option 1 - Scottsdale Maple Cognac with level 2 Impala Black granite
Pros: least expensive cabinet option, wouldn't be dark, nice neutral color, pretty granite, combo looks good in the model, I have a good choice of backsplash with this granite
Cons: expensive granite (big $ upgrade)
Concerns: Will these cabinets go too orange (they can get very orange in pictures)? Will they clash with my Cherry floors?
Here's a pic of the Avalon model (LOVE, LOVE, LOVE this big, functional kitchen :)) with the Maple Cognac/Impala Black. The unknown is still my cherry floors:
Option 2 - Scottsdale Maple Espresso with Luna Pearl granite
Pros: cabinets look good with the cherry hardwood floors, no upgrade cost on the granite
Cons: maybe a cold kitchen, I've never seen Luna Pearl in real life (big con)
Concerns: is the Luna Pearl dated? Is it going to look good?
Here's a pic from 172waverly.blogspot.com of the Espresso/Luna Pearl/dark hardwoods (they also selected the Bare Mineral carpet that I picked for upstairs)