I think everything you said would look good.

Unless what you like is too difficult or too expensive to build why would your builder be offering a contrary opinion? Is he your relative? You can't stop relatives from telling you what to do.

To Post a photo on the forum:
Go to TinyPic.com and BROWSE til you find your photo on your computer. Then resize if necessary (see below) and then click on DOWNLOAD, then click once on the top address line to copy it, then paste it into the "message" box on the forum.

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I ended up with white window trim and stained casings. I wasn't sure I would be happy with it, but now I hardly even notice it. I also have seen it reversed, as yours would be, and it looks fine, so do it the way you want it.

I too had a very opinionated builder. I had to keep reminding him that there was fine line between building and decorating, and he needed to stay on his side of the line.

Good Luck,
Totally Confused

Funny. I had a client who said they valued and wanted my design input as they had seen and liked my personal home. But I soon realized they only wanted my input if it agreed with their, ah, unusual tastes. No different than with "friends" and acquaintances who, when they ask for your opinion on their personal lives, are only seeking validation for what they have done or are planning to do anyway.

You like stain and paint? Sounds fine to me!