We have a glass rangehood similar to Futuro Futuro's Acqualina Glass product and I love it. The top and bottom of the glass gets given a clean about once a week with citrus multi-purpose cleaning spray and then wiped down with a moistened glass cleaning cloth for a pristine finish. Takes around 5 minutes in total. Cleaning the brushed stainless part is more difficult. As mentioned previously, its hard to remove all the marks. Will definately try the WD40. Me, personally, I don't like the mirrored finish. Given the window is acting as the "splashback" I would have gone for something invisible like what Sheryl Horton showed.

A very difficult to answer in general terms as there are so many variables including personal likes and dislikes, the function of each room, natural lighting, aspect of the home. The type of finish is probably more important to consider at this point than colour. For eg are you having tiles, carpets or floor boards. Tiles are generally the hardest wearing however likely to date quicker. Floor boards are timeless but can be scratched however this tends to act character to the floor. Suggest you select the flooring first. Go for mid tones in carpet and if no one in the family has allergies than a woollen one as you can get this in variegated colours which disguises marks and stains. If using floor boards steer away from very dark colours as although they look absolutely stunning they will show every spec of dust, animal hair etc. same applies to t dark tiles.

Sorry, I can't edit posts from my ancient iPad. You might see if you can find a sample of the other materials you are considering and give them the "touch test." Good luck!

Go with your gut Tracy..... it is a big investment but I have found that if it makes you smile every time you walk into your kitchen you'll never regret it!!!! I've recently moved into a smaller downsized home with my 3rd black kitchen, with drawers, no cupboards, except for the pantry which we use as the crockery and wine glasses stash. Mine is matt but no handles = no hip bangers! I chose to use snow white stone bench tops, the walls are painted natural white while the floors are pale oak hybrid vinyl.