A bit of context: this is kitchen in a 1891 shingle style house (the traditionalists might be a bit horrified - my renovation style tends to be a bit more 'honor the past without being forced to repeat it'...I was going for something a bit more contemporary that still makes sense in the space )

So, I'd really like your comments and suggestions (well, except for the 'how the #$& are you going to keep dark floors and white marble CLEAN...we know, we know...a potential disaster in the making, but hopefully a very beautiful disaster)

I understand my taste is not everyone's taste, it's just a chance to get fresh perspectives and I will probably not interact much other than to THANK YOU for your unvarnished opinion. Thoughts, links to photos, ideas on remaining color choices...anything and everything welcome.

Background

Cabinets - Farrow and Ball Cornforth White

Floor - Ebonized white oak (the photos read dark, but there is definitely grain showing through...will probably do a matte finish on final coat). One option that we are considering is to restain the floor (perhaps a mid-tone brown with some red) to pull in from the rest of the house.

Countertop - White Rhino marble.

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I personally love dark floors but do not have them in my own home because I have two Golden Furtrievers. I just wouldn't want to have to grow a Swiffer Sweeper thingie on my right arm to follow them around with :)

Can't wait to see more!

You have a fairly blank slate for many options when it comes to wall color or backsplash. You have a very classic look going, so could keep it up with marble mini bricks or ceramic subways, in either white or any light to medium color. You could add some bling with a tasteful accent pieces or a strip in glass or something colorful. You could even go a little whimsical with fun or more strongly colored tiles if you're that kind of person. A stronger contemporary statement could be glass or stainless tiles.

I tend this way, but I'd go with a grayed color on the walls... A grayed green or blue, depending on your preference....or a medium gray with green or brownish undertone could be nice, and would also lean a little contemporary.

I simply cut and paste the "HTML for Websites" code. If you need more help embedding images in threads, see the link below to read the Posting Pictures portion of the New To Kitchens? Posting Pics? Read Me! thread. (I had to reduce the size of your first image using html code. Other image reduction info in the thread linked below.)

I have no design feedback to offer (sorry, not my strong suit) but I had to tell you that I'm in LOVE with your range wall! And I'm totally green with envy.

And thank you Lisa A for putting the photos inline and pointing me to the right resource!

There's been a number of great ideas to try out here..but honestly, no idea where the backsplash & paint choice will take me quite yet.

OK, seriously, I've recommended this blog before, so some may think I'm a broken record (just a little disclaimer for CEFreeman :-), but anyhoo, try the Cote de Texas blog, especially her top ten design elements entries. #4 curtains has some kitchens you should see, for finishing touches inspiration. Her entry on Kitchens 101: elements to copy also has many photos and suggestions.

I tried and rejected BM Gray Owl. In my kitchen awash in lots of natural light, as is yours, it looked pastel green. My light value may be different than where you live, but it has a definite green undertone.

Looking forward to seeing your finished kitchen!

I would at minimum bring down the trim from the clerestory level down to the windows bordering the backsplash. Is that what the design calls for? The hood is looking a little floaty.

I must say the drywall in the first picture looks purple on my monitor, and I was kinda digging that with the gray cabs.

Trim will extend down to backsplash level, Marcolo. The bead matches original molding in the butlers pantry.

Ceiling height is 106 inches.

I don't regret going full overlay...although I recognize many prefer inset, it was a conscious choice. I might be in the minority, but i prefer the look of full overlay for drawers, and given the premium for inset from my cabinetmaker, it was a no brainer.

The windows are my favorite thing so far as well!

I am indeed leaning towards a subtle palette for the walls but might be a bit bold in the backsplash.

This is just another absolutely beautiful space.
I want the serenity of these calm colors. I just love looking. Ok, legal voyeurism. But post more?

More pictures coming up as the kitchen gets completed.

But things are getting done now more quickly - we have an awesome contractor and architect, thankfully, but it's trying on everyone's patience. My decision paralysis is not helping either :)

As another teaser, check out the ribbon stair into the kitchen -

The contractor's dogs are very welcome guests when they visit. They have personality, intelligence, and a sense of humor in spades! Having the house torn up I don't dare try to keep a dog yet.

Exterior vent - it's nothing special, straight out. If you give me a few days I can take a picture of the exterior.

The tile is not metallic, it's just a trick of the dark gray in the light, I think.

I hope your project resolves smoothly so that you can bring a new BC home!

Here is an outside photo of the range wall.