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

Absolutely no problem changing up the carpet. Things to watch for......make the transition in a doorway, an opening or along a visual break in the rooms (like the corners of the walls). I would stay in the same colour range, but just go to the other end of the spectrum rather than change the colour completely.....like light grey going to dark grey, not light grey going to navy blue. You want the separation but an easy transition on the eyes.

Are there little bits and pieces that you could salvage and put into a shadowbox? Just little things that mean something to you or that would remind you of good times you had in your home.

Hi all!! My parents and I are in a dilemma for what materials should we use for the cupboards in Kitchen. We're being advised for Waterproof Plywood, PVC Boards and some other options. We've already placed a concrete shelf. Can you please help me decide what material is codt effective and durable. It's a small house and we've a very limited budget. Location - Punjab, India.