Keep it light. Find a neutral quartz. Depending on the slab, Kasmir granite can have a lot of little purple or raisin flecks in it. It's one of the lower cost granites and is NOT neutral. Soapstone and honed granite can be costly. Labor is going to be the same for any of them. The light counters allow you to change out accessories to add some pop. Black is very limiting.

Thanks so much for your comment Susan. As my remarks were left some time ago we did wind up settling on a honed light granite. It's really nice. We kept that color on the perimeter and island we went with honed black soapstone on a hutch piece we had built in out dining area just off the kitchen. So happy with our choice. You were totally right. Keeping it light and bright was the way to go. We still have work to do but are well on out way!

Wow! Your kitchen is gorgeous! What a change. It looks like a bright and cheerful space for family and friends. Thanks for sharing your finished photos.