Change the knobs on the cabinets to update also. You could use 2 pendant lights over the island using the current recessed lights. There are conversion kits at lowes.

I absolutely agree re: changing hardware on cabinets. New Venetian Gold is very common and is one of those rare colors that tends to go with everything, but if you're not in love with it, you should think about finding something that goes with what you're doing that you also love - be sure and check out the whole slab so you have no surprises later - there's no such thing as the perfect countertop, and natural stone tops are gorgeous but often do have veining in surprising places. The backsplash sounds great - just keep in mind cleaning, especially after cooking greasier things (think bacon, meats, etc.)
Good luck!

Thank you ajkriv and Boyce Lumber & Design Center. I have considered doing some pendant lights before so maybe this would be a good time to add that to the update. I had not thought about changing the cabinet hardware because all the hardware in the house is ORB including all doorknobs, hinges, faucets etc. Just curious what would you recommend for updated cabinet hardware?

Perhaps keep the finish, change the style

Right off the bat what hits me that I think would look great is IF you can remove that lower part of the ceiling which is off to the right side of the kitchen. It makes the ceiling look low. Is it possible? I know there could be electrical issues, etc. to consider but if that can be taken away, the ceiling would be higher and look great.