MATERIAL Choices

     Once I made the decision I would renovate my kitchen, I immediately began searching the internet for materials I would use in that renovation.  My first purchase was nine 13-inch-by-11-inch iron brackets by Rachiele that will eventually support three 5-foot lengths of statuary marble above my counters.  I scored with these brackets that I found on ebay for $30 each.  They sell on the Rachiele website for $120 a piece.  Unfortunately, the combined weight of the brackets and marble shelving requires that the walls be reinforced.

     Two of these 36-inch iron pot bars and 4-inch brackets by Enclume will be positioned on the marble-tiled wall next to my range.  I purchased them on Amazon.

     I didn't spend much time looking for my cabinet hardware.  When I saw the White Bronze Sierra 6-inch pulls and round knobs by Alno, I immediately knew this is what I would use in my kitchen.  I originally saw this hardware locally, but again, ordered off the internet to save about one-third of the cost.  One caveat -- start your on-line purchasing early.  I had to return the hardware twice because of a defective finish.  The first time they arrived the knobs and pulls were the color of antique brass (where was the quality control??).  It ended up taking almost three months to get the correct finish; a hassle, but still worth it for what I was able to save. 
     The elongated oval, steel finger-pull in the photo was purchased through Doug Mockett.  I ordered two that will be used in sliding glass doors on the one storage cabinet that will reach to the ceiling.

                                    A 15-inch magnetic knife strip by MIU.

Finding lighting for my kitchen was probably the most challenging for me.   There are endless options -- beautiful options!  And endless price points.  The Restoration Hardware Turner flushmount above was found on ebay, new in the box for about $70 less than retail.  The Lilly Spot (left) and the COD (below) were my splurges.  Purchased through Circa Antiques in Westport, Connecticut, both lights were made in Belgium.  Plans are for the spot to shine on an old slate chalkboard.  The COD will be mounted at the back door entrance.

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     Elkay Avado undermount sink with drainboard.  This was probably my biggest on-line prize.  Listing at $1435, I found it for less than $700 with free shipping!