Hi mgse,

Depending if and when your budget changes I would suggest making the change to granite countertops, we are able to go right over the existing counter with our countertops. This will save you time and money, plus zero demo.

As for your paint dilemma. I like the color paint that you've chosen for your kitchen. This is a really nice space, the island works well, the lighting and natural light is excellent. What about going with a subway tile backsplash all the way around under the wall cabinets down to the counters? There are several colors to choose from, which you can see here- http://bit.ly/T8Nc3b

I'd suggest something similar to the bronzite or noir for your kitchen.

Hope this was helpful, good luck. Let me know if I can be of further assistance.

If you can add a sparkly backsplash I think you will be in business. Here is a diy link, or look at all the choices at a tile store. Sparkle or reflecting metal rather than stone I think would work well for you to brighten up the space. http://freshome.com/2012/02/17/how-to-install-a-mosaic-backsplash-in-two-hours-or-less-video/
Good luck

I don't recommend changing the paint colour in your backsplash area. If you want paint here, continue the room colour throughout. Tile is a more practical finish, however.

Adding tile or tile-like paint on your backsplash area will draw the eye to color and pattern and make the kitchen feel brighter. Look at mexican tile patterns, then look at this cool video on how to do it yourself. Also consider replacing the pendants over your island to a large chandelier type fixture.

Hi---beautiful space, but gloomy looking, definitely need some color. Add a wallpaper to the wall between cabs and paint the ceiling pale turquoise blue...[houzz=][houzz=]

If money is an issue for the tiling, or you just don't like tile on the backsplash, you could paint a design or decal something on there that would set the kitchen off, and you could use the colors that you like that might be too much in larger amounts, like bright red (matching those plates on the wall) along with turquoise or aqua. Even if you only did something on the backsplash portion that's next to the refrigerator, that could brighten the entire kitchen. You've got lots of possibilities. :)

I really like the kitchen, counters wall colouring and all. To me, what's making it dark is the flooring - is it tiles or vinyl? If the latter, that would be the first thing I would change.

Thank you all for the comments. Jan the floor is a laminate product purchased at home depot. At this point, all I can really change is the paint.