We have dated kitchen that has cabinet/island/sink etc in one area that is 13.3 feet wide by 14.5 feet long...sort of. Then the area where the table is measures 11ft long by 15 feet wide, including the bay window. This is all one room, but because of the angled bay window, is divided up functionally into those spaces. We have considered painting the oak cabinets on the bottom and just buying new cabinets with glass inserts on the top to save $$. Love kraftmaid Palladia bistro inserts in white. I'm worried about the match though. Btw, ceiling height is 9 feet.

Also need new countertops. We have approximately 60 sq ft total countertop space. The island alone measures 46" w by 89" long. And the floor has to be replaced too...it's white 12x12" builder grade, dark caulk, shows dirt from 3 dogs badly. Ugh.

Soooo....questions:
1. Can we do anything with bottom cabinets and just replace top? I have the heavy honey oak and the silly different heights for refrigerator cabinet and windows with the lower cabinets in the middle. If going halfway is just a bad idea, can anyone recommend cabinets that are above average quality but well priced? And how do you all feel about white cabinets vs wood? I happen to love light (see third window we just put in over sink!) but am not sure if white is overdone. Or maybe combine a light maple on bottom with white on top if all the cabinets are new, same style?

2. Any recommendations for countertop since we have so much to cover? I'm planning on adding pendants over island.

3. Would it add to the island to add any height on side where chairs are, so main part is counter height and raised area might be barstool?

4. Floor...have about 375 sq ft just based on total room size of 25 ft x 14 ft. We have medium oak hardwood in hall and dining room with tobacco acacia about to go into now-carpeted family room. I think I have to go with something other than hardwood although I love wood in kitchens. Thoughts?

5. Should we add any ceiling detail to create some separation between table area and kitchen area? Simple coffered? Just a simple beam or softest with corbels or molding at end of cabinet, right before the angle of the bay window begins?

6. Last question...promise! The hideous dog gates have to go but we née a way to keep the dogs in the kitchen. Could we add two doors that open out into the hallway that have glass inserts and glass transom to maintain light where dog gate is now going into hall? That opening is 37". Perhaps same door to the dining room...?

7. Oops, one more thing....in picture with dog bowls and small cabinet covered in mail, I'd like to have a counter that is open underneath for dog bowls with some cabinets above for extra storage. Another bad idea?! Maybe incorporate a small wine fridge and a place for the microwave??

Thank you!!