Looks like they did a similar thing here with a false ceiling. These look a bit more built in as well.

There are many examples on houzz of contrasting counters for perimeter and island. For example butcher block on island and stone on perimeter or a solid color on one and something with movement on another. I would only mix two stones if one had movement and one was fairly solid. The stainless on perimeter and something else on island sounds good to me. Here is a pic of stainless counters with what looks like a stone breakfast bar. (I hope I understood your question right). http://houzz.com/photos/3137660

Here's a couple of ideas that work really well as alternatives to a walk in pantry. They integrate into your wall cabinetry, allowing you to keep central spaces open and free flowing. Using drawers to create a pantry as Esselai suggests. Check out how Harn Triomax soft close drawers are used in just this way. Availble in classic white or metallic grey. Two front to back depth options - 500mm and 5500mm. And 8 drawer width options from 450mm to 1200mm. Alternatively, there are a number of quality pull out pantry options in the German designed and made Vauth-Sagel range. Some are installed with fixed fronts to match your cabinetry, and others are installed behind hinged doors. See below (from top to bottom) the VSA model, DUSA model and HSA model. These all come in a variety of width options and specs, from chromed wire shelves to sold bases with glass panelling.

we need to use two vertical beams on either side of our kitchen island. so could make this a feature alternatively could not have them attached to our island. any ideas or images would be appreciated