I gave the decor centre (both the kitchen and the "other items" place) end of December, and had the following responses:
1) Kitchen Centre - Not all the samples are in yet. They will call me back when they are available for a preview (I asked if I can come before my appointment, which isn't set yet, to preview the materials so I have time to think about it). No call as of today.
2) Decor Centre (downtown) - they know nothing about the process. They told me to wait for my appointment. Not impressed with the customer service here. No offers for a call back, a call transfer to someone that knows, or anything like that. Light and day difference in courtesy between the Kitchen and the Decor Centre.
I don't think its early to pick finishes. My last condo I picked a couple years in advance. I know INDX already picked, and they are 4 years away from completion. Most condos are built with each floor at a different stage in construction. They will need to start putting in floors/cabinets soon on the lower floors if they are to make an August occupancy date. Takes time to order materials and get the workers to install 600 kitchens