I think all you really need to switch out is the backsplash. The pattern in it, along with the countertops and the flooring, may be what you are not liking. Perhaps making it all the lightest color of the tiles you have?

It's poorly lit and the chicken pox backsplash has to go. Add under cabinet lighting, and a new more monochrome backsplash. The wall color needs to be something besides beige. Maybe a green or even a burnt orange could work to liven up the beige overload.

The white appliances are fighting the black, brown and beige!

I agree, the backsplash is not working. I would remove and replace with something in a lighter color. Did you do the tiling yourself ? I don't care for the staggering on the left side.

I think the cabinets should be painted a lighter color, maybe match the lightest color in your backsplash. An antique white maybe. I agree the appliances standout, but those are easier to change than the rest of the kitchen. It wouldn't be so blaring if the cabinets were a light color. Also think the lighter colored cabinets would help with the lack of natural light.

2 windows and a lack of natural light - i don't think so.

Well, it really depends what is on the other side of the room, the orientation of the house to the sun and the time of day this photo was taken, but it doesn't look very bright in these pictures. My last house had a kitchen with two windows and it lacked natural light. So, I do think so.

How about some hardware for your cabinetry? There are so many interesting choices out there. All you need is a drill, measuring tape and patience.

My overall impression is that this is the kitchen of someone who doesn't cook. There isn't even a roll of paper towels! How about an interesting set of canisters, cook books, a toaster! That could inject some much needed personality and color.

Too brown and too many patterns in the floors, backsplash and counters. Not to mention the brown cabinets. The time to ask Houzz is before you make your permanent expensive decisions.

At this point I'd suggest you paint your cabinets white so they'd blend with the windows.

Take a look at the way this awkward--no good place to end the backsplash--is handled. You could do something like this to finish out the project. It wouldn't need to be exactly like this but something to tie in the cabinets with the end of the counter and give some definition to the backsplash.

Add green, maybe a curtain topper. A rug at sink & or roman shade for softness.

I refinished the cabinets, then got the countertops. My husband picked out the backsplash. Our kitchen over looks our living room which has a pallet wall similar color to the cabinets and a wood burning stove that sit upon bricks that scale up the wall. He thought the "brick" type backsplash would complement the brick in the living room. I just went with what he wanted since I was picking everything else..he wanted a say too. I'm not in love with the backsplash but he loves it. :/ The floors are original. The light is original and very poor. I do want to replace it. It creates shadows everywhere and half of the time you can't even see what food your cutting up. I just don't know what to do with it. I appreciate everyone's opinions. I would rather not replace the backsplash anytime soon. Gotta make hubby happy too, ya know! :) I have included pix of the kitchen before and I included a picture of the side that a couple people asked for. It's a U shaped kitchen. Keep the comments coming. I love the feedback. I'm new to this site. Thanks for everyone's help!

Under cabinet lighting(led). Visit home improvement store.

Tell hubby that his backslash is the plaid pants to the striped shirt of the cabinets. Hopefully, he wouldn't do that in real life.

I would paint windows cream or beige. Don't paint the cabinets. It's the staggering that is the problem. The tile is fine & works.

I think it's just a lighting issue. Invest in some under cabinet lights to brighten up the backsplash .. since that isn't going to change. And change out the hanging light to a minimum 3 bulb flush mount -- unless you could swing a new installation of recessed lighting for the space. Don't hang anything from that ceiling -- it's already low and all the dark colors are making it seem even lower.

Given your subsequent comments (about making hubby happy - with which I agree), in addition to the lighting changes oft suggested (under counter and recessed) add splash of color with 1) new blinds 2) nice rug in front of sink and 3) accent bowl or plants on the countertop where the backsplash ends. Take heart - this is much improved over the prior finishes. Your work has not been in vain.

The backsplash is the villain here. Since it must stay I can only agree with remarks on changing your light fixture. You could add one of those small rugs shaped to go under your feet at the sink. I do not mind monochromatic decorating. If you planned it that way I see no reason for you to feel forced to add color

That's a nice kitchen -lots of work space! I really think the lighting is the culprit in these nighttime pics, and super agree w/those who suggest under cab lighting. Go ahead and finish out that wall tile over the peninsula. Simply square it up, if nothing else. The zig-zag makes it look as if you ran out of tile. Overall, major improvements! I like how you've "sleeked" up the space.

I would add recessed lighting, under cabinet lighting, and hardware to the cabinets.

OK - I am going to address some small changes for baby steps. If I am seeing right? are those magnets on the dishwasher? I struggle with seeing people put magnets on any appliance , so I would remove them. I also would get lighter outlet covers, the dark ones stick out like sore thumbs. I would also work on having all the appliance colors match.

I also have the corner windows and struggled to get the look right, I know some people don't like valances but that is how I brought colors in and they make some really fun ones...I also brought my plants up by using a wire basket upside down and placing a tray on top for 2-3 small plants and candles and things with texture. Trays always seem to finish things off. Also fun to decorate for seasons. Plus I would put something, in your empty wall past shelves...like floating shelves or a nice framed chalk/bulletin board.......Good luck

backsplash doesn't work at all, floor is not much better. I like the countertop.

Maybe try adding in more lighting, can lights in the ceiling as well as some decorative bar lights above the counter.

Just agreeing with others...lighting would help, finish the backsplash (the suggested photo is nice, some added personality), and sage green paint in the living room (just my opinion); when budget allows, I think replacing all the appliances with stainless would brighten it up, too. I'm normally not a fan of stainless, but I think black is too dark, and white is too light. Stainless would also give a small amount of reflection for more light. Good luck on getting it where you want it!

I like the splashback, I am not fond of that floor...

I agree with Margo on outlet covers, they need to be light in colour. Maybe take the backsplash to the end of counter top and then add a couple of shelves above (this should keep hubby happy). I would definitely lighten up the floor; perhaps use one of the lighter tiles in the backsplash as a colour sample for new flooring. Again as suggested above some new under upper cabinet lighting. If you are changing out appliances maybe try and get a more recessed/counter depth fridge. Good luck.

backsplash and floor are not working well together. Counter top beautiful. Lighting would help

There is to much pattern .If I block out the floor however it all looks better. I would replace the floor with a light to medium wood. Some bright stainless or nickel pulls. The appliances with stainless when your budget allows. New lighting is the priority if you can't even see to cook.

The kitchen seems pretty dark. You can add colorful accent pieces and absolutely need under cabinet lighting. It's not that expensive and will give great task lighting and overall improved lighting. The overhead fixture needs to be replaced. Check out Lamps Plus website! Go for something fun and bold ;)

Thank you everyone for the tips! I better get to work!

Curious??? how did you come to be PRO so soon?

Maybe you need to choose just one "star"?

Choosing a kitchen focal point? Here is a great
article that might help: Kitchen
Focal Point

I like it. It's easy to get stressed over whether you picked the wrong finish with so many choices. I think it is beautiful.

It is also very easy to get battery operated under cabinet lighting that doesn't need a pro to install. Lighting is key in this or any kitchen.