I vote for the lighter counter top.

Before you do one more thing get proper lighting it will have a huge effect on the choices you make from now on. Tht center boob light is useless the least expensive choice is a LED track change all the othe rlight bulbs too and get daylight bulbs in the 3500- 5000K range I usulaly suggest 4500K.

Light countertop. I'm a quartz fan, not so much a granite fan.

Both look nice, but I would not do two different types.

I too like virginia but not in this space. Go light!

Thanks for the feedback. The lights are getting changed out as well, just have to get the electricians back.

I originally wanted to use soapstone on the island and due to cost and other factors the Virginia mist appears close to it and is cheaper. However, most appear to be for the lighter counter-tops.

Thoughts on having the island turned? It provides more walking room around it.

I agree, I like the lighter top. I think it will brighten up the space.

you may also want to consider your flooring when making your counter selection.

With your new lighting I think the Virginia mist will be fine.

I like it w/your dark cabs. I don't like that gray quartz though. it's too industrial/cold looking for your kitchen and wood tone.

what is going on the floor?

I hope you plan on painting the trim work to a crisp white.

also, think about switching out that door to something like this. lets in more light. (you can find them for less than 200 in a mahogany)

What if you did the black on the perimeter and a walnut butcher block for the island?

Or, if you're doing a darker flooring option, pick a white quartz for the perimeter and the black or walnut for the island

this layout is very similar to what your kitchen looks like. You could easily copy this look.

no to the white granite.. i don't think it does anything for your cabs... your cabs are warm, that granite reads cool.

like the VM... and Beth's ideas

An update:

The pictures below are with the cabinets in place. The door you reference Beth is actually being converted to a pantry area. The picture you can just barely see a window, that is actually being converted to a doorway and will be able to walk into what will become the dining room. (A three seasons porch being converted.)

I would NOT go with anything dark. You need to brighten up the space with a nice light coutertop. I would do the same countertop throughout.