Is the second photo what you have done so far?

I think more natural light would really help as your kitchen appears to be on the north side - could you switch the door with a winds with a full glass door?

1. You need a whole lot more lights in that kitchen. Due to how short the ceiling is, I would recommend two rows of four can lights.

2. Nail down a color scheme. It looks like you've started that process based on the pictures, but try having two pale neutrals (grey and/or beige tones) and one accent color (something striking but not overwhelming, this is a small space.)

3. If you really like your cabinets, try to salvage them. But please, for your sanity, remove the soffits. It will do wonders to your space.

4. Make the closed in pantry open shelves. This will really open up the space. That giant span of wall (yes, it is giant due to the size of your room,) is breaking up the space, making it feel even smaller.

5. Key to making a small space feel bigger is visible sq. ft. Keep clutter on the floor to an absolute minimum.

6. If it is in your budget, you could replace the far window with a much larger picture window or vertical double hung. This would dramatically increase the light in your kitchen.

7. Make sure your appliances are in the most logical locations (sink next to dishwasher, pans next to stove top) This will reduce the amount of unnecessary moves through the kitchen, making it more streamline and less chaotic.

8. Love your kitchen! If you don't love it, change it. And enjoy doing so.