I think your cabinets are beautiful and if it were me, I would just add granite countertops and continue them up the backsplash. There is a Brazilian Granite called "cashmere" that has beautiful colors in it that would match your cabinets perfectly. It also has several hues in it that will make matching floor tile a breeze.

As for the table area, I would have the granite installed there as a work surface/breakfast bar. This adds uniformity to the space and gives you more horizontal surface. If there is room under this area, you could match your current cabinets and install a caddy that tucks away countertop appliances but they are always at-the- ready.

Thanks, Victoria! I'll definitely check out the cashmere granite.

I have to agree. The cabinets are very nice. I was a kichen designer for over 20 years and I can not see a way to improve the corner area for you. I suggest a granite top and a new sink. Keep a single bowl sink. One way to improve the storage under the sink is to have a sink with a right rear drain.

Here is a link that might be useful: right rear drain sinks

Don't rule out solid surface countertops, you could probably do Meganite for what granite would cost and you still get some variation and movement without the glossy appearance or the maintenance and staining issues that come with granite.

Like many of us your cabinets appear to all be the same tone, if you go with granite I wouldn't repeat it on the backsplash. Introducing a different texture, shape or colour on the backsplash will give your kitchen more visual interest on the vertical surfaces (cabinets, walls, backsplash). Very subjective but I find the granite carried up on the backsplash (particularly if it is in the same tone as the wood in the cabinets) can create a kind of monotone look that isn't eye grabbing. However the nice thing about a granite backsplash is it is much easier to care for than tile.

Given that the floor is light now you might get a more dramatic transformation by going darker on the floors (not too dark mind you). Tile is great but it usually means the end of anything that drops, it is hard to stand on and grout lines can be hard to keep clean - maybe something like the Mannington and Nafco faux tile products (which are sold as tiles not sheet) which have some cushion (Consumer's Reports 2008 Kitchen Buying Guide hightly recommended both). Cork and Marmoleum are also possibilities if you want to get away from ceramic or porcelain tile. Everyone's taste is different but I'm always attracted to those kitchen where something a little off beat is happening and I think function should usually trump form in a kitchen. Good luck!