Our kitchen was basically good, but it looked 20 years tired. I had replaced the floors with ceramic tile some years ago. Our den is adjacent to the kitchen but was cut off by a wall. Lighting of course was a big issue. I like the amount of light that the old fluorescent fixture, but the shop light had to go.
I got the light fixture idea from this sight and with the help and advise of my electrician, I build this fixture.
I framed up the existing island and painted it to match the black appliances, topping it with a reclaimed wooden top.
I didn't feel like I could justify the cost of solid granite counter tops, but granite tile are a wonderful alternative. I used recycled glass tiles for the backsplash.
I also got the idea for the cork board over the desk from this site.
Finally I painted the kitchen grey, it was lovely and boring! I need color and the purple works well.