Isn't there some way to change the granite. Not sure you will be happy with this selection. It's so very limiting.

I think I would consider grey cabinets, and grey or stainless steel tile backsplash. Not sure that cream colored tiles are doable.

Are you getting new cabinets or just painting current cabinets? If the later, then wait for the countertop to be in place. I understand the money issue but I would take a laminate of my choosing over orange granite. How is it you are forced to buy a stone you dislike? Don't go through with it!

thank you very much to everyone who responded! I'll look into espresso and charcoal grays. As well as the steel backplash.

Emmarenes, I'm living abroad in India, and the only granites in my budget are the local ones. I was advised against the gray and white local ones because i was told that they would not hold up well in the kitchen. I could have gone with a black galaxy as well but i have that granite now and despise it because of the way it hides ants and bugs so well. we live in a tropical area and there are always critters here and there. My first choice was a Brazilian white granite but it was triple the price. This granite is called Shiva pink, so it has a pink salmon and gray look to it. Im really hoping I don't hate it once it's installed. The stoneyard was a 9 hour trip up and down and i was just pressured to make a choice after several undecided trips. And I'm getting new cabinets put in. but I think I can wait for them to put the slab before staining the wood. Thanks for that idea :)

I agree gray is the best route for making this work. It is so salmon! But it will look very warm and inviting when it's finished.

Gah! So the granite is here and I'm so embarrassed but it is not at all what I remembered :S. ... It has way more gray, Brown, and lighter areas than the photo I thought was a good representation. Also looking at it on my phone, (I'm sure everyone has a different resolution), but the minerals/ veins are not as dark as it shows in the second close up pic. It's a bit more bland. I still think espresso or charcoal would go. But would appreciate some reassurance or advice. And I didn't have much luck with the steel backsplash. Any thoughts now that I have the actual granite pic? would gray tile work in place of steel? Tia.

I think dark espresso or charcoal would look nice and accent those veins....the dark contrast will draw them out, which I think will be a good thing! definately stay away from anything with orangey or fleshy undertones in terms of wood stains. I think espresso would be lovely!