No it is not essential to install a backsplash IMO. You have a 4" one now. Paint and a square rug would add color.

A small island (in another color) would be useful for quick meals and hanging out around the kitchen. Add some roman blinds and plants for more life.

A back splash is preferable, especially around the stove area.

I would want a pass thru to the dining room for openness. Considering painting this entire area to add color and warmth and cohesiveness. Add curtains in coordinating color to soften. A rug under the dining room table that would delineate. Decide on a color that you want the kitchen to be besides white. White and blue and a bit of yellow? You can buy accents inexpensively and switch out when you want a change, so that's an advantage of this neutral look. You should add a chandelier for the dining area. Something with bling, doesn't have to be expensive. Lowes' and HD carry.

Cute condo! The kitchen will look great once you add some colorful dish towels and potholders, a bowl of fruit and maybe some decorative pottery. Plants are a good idea. Might consider a light fixture with more pizzazz, although the one that's up looks new. You could add a small island, but only if you'll use it, otherwise save your money for something else.

What's on the wall opposite the sofa?

I would't rush to make big changes -- get a colorful rug for in front of the sink, and then live in the space a while. You might decide that a rolling/freestanding island is just the thing to give some extra counter space or even a place to perch, but it might just get in the way moving among the major zones of the kitchen.

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I think the dining room and living room need to be flipped and then decorate the living room first and carry those colors and design options over into the kitchen.

Thank you all for your ideas, I hadn't considered roman blinds and think that would be a great way to add color/life. Will also get a rug and colorful accents, perhaps do a backsplash around the stove. Einportlandor there isn't anything opposite sofa, just an entryway/hallway to the right of front door. I have added more photos to show the odd layout. So really the major issue is where I have the dining table. I agree about moving the dining next to kitchen but that would leave an empty space at one end of living room (see pics). I feel like a side table or futon wouldn't really cut it in place of a table.

Again, all furniture is staging stuff, not mine.

Would love to add a nice chandelier once I've figured out where to put the dining table!

I would take advantage of those "bulkheads" near the door and add a table of the same depth, artwork above. It would look built-in.

I'd put your table right next to the kitchen. I enjoy tile backsplashes a lot. But I think a different color on the walls will help a lot.

Totally agree with putting your dining room table next to the kitchen and adding color with accents , rug ,accessories etc in kitchen. As for the space at the end of livingroom where the dining table is currently located, how about a couple of comfie chairs to make a nice conversation area and maybe a plug in type fireplace.

Exactly what I was going to recommend--swap areas with the table and the sofa. Right now it looks like the sofa is almost in the kitchen.

Your dining room is the more enclosed of the spaces, if I remember right? Consider an accent wall on the far wall. For interest and to give the space a presence inexpensively. An blingy chandelier will look great with a deep rich wall color behind it. Then you can really go with minimal furniture and not look half-empty. Put up some floating shelves on the other wall.

If you're a reader, turn it into a library with a comfortable chair and ottoman, bookshelves, and a good light. If you like to entertain, turn it into a wine bar or cocktail room. If you work from home, turn it into an office. If you're an artist, turn it into a studio or gallery. If you have frequent out-of-town guests, furnish it with a sofa bed. You get the idea . . . it's a great little space. Make it reflect who you are. Have fun! And post pictures when you're done!