I think the butcher block countertops are the way to go for your kitchen remodel. They hold up really well with regular oiling and develop a nice patina over time. We went with walnut in our last renovation and it has aged beautifully with a warm rich color that deepens. The key is to seal them properly from the start with a good quality tung oil or hard wax oil. Then maintain that seal every few months depending on how much prep work you do directly on the surface. For the cabinet hardware brushed nickel still seems like a reliable choice that won't look dated quickly. The pull-out shelving in the lower cabinets makes a huge difference for accessibility and storage. Make sure your contractor reinforces the floor if you are going with a larger island than what was there before because the weight adds up quickly with stone or butcher block. Under mount sinks are a good choice too because they keep the countertops cleaner with no rim to collect debris. Just make sure the cabinet faces are sealed well near the sink area to prevent any moisture issues over time. I can share the contact for our countertop finisher if you need a recommendation.

The North Rim trail is a solid choice for this weekend. The full loop takes about four hours at a steady pace with a couple of stops for water and to take in the views. Start before eight to avoid the heat on the exposed ridge section where there is very little shade after the first mile. There is a good rest spot at the three mile mark with a bench and some cover under the pines. The elevation gain is steady but manageable if you pace yourself and take breaks as needed. Bring at least two liters of water per person and some electrolyte packets because the afternoon sun can be intense even when the air temperature feels moderate. The meadow section near the end has some wildflowers blooming right now which makes for a pleasant finish to the hike. If you want to extend the trip there is a connecting path to the old fire road that adds another two miles with completely different views through the open grassland. Just watch for uneven ground where the trail narrows near the seasonal creek bed especially after recent rain. I can send you a map link if you need directions to the trailhead parking area which fills up quickly on weekends.