we prefer lightcolored stone what do you recommend

We are in the process of building a contemporary prefab house.  Your 
postings on the slate-questions site have convinced me that the slate 
options ithey offer in the bathrooms--and for the kitchen counter--
are a BAD idea.  Here's my question:  if we prefer light-colored 
stone (beige/golden)--what do you recommend?  Also, the central 
living space is a large living/dining room that opens on both ends to 
outdoor terraces.  The architect recommends using the same flooring 
throughout.  We had planed on a "desert beige" slate (god only knows 
where it's from!), but now need an alternative plan there, too. 
(Again, sand-ish colored stone best suits our area and lot here in 
California.

Thank you very much!
Ellen and Brian