So we're on a pretty tight budget. I finally painted the walls a mustard yellow and burnt orange to make the yellow linoleum not look so bad while I"m figuring out the best flooring and such. We really want a rustic look that will blend with the rock fireplace/hearth and exterior stone.

Cabinets are a challenge because I really like the fact that they are old-school 100% wood cabinets. BUT...they have a worn oil varnish to deal with.

Tiles gotta go and we can't get rid of the turquoise sink (you heard me right!) until we get rid of it. Don't you love linoleum breakfast bars??

Lighting is such a challenge here! We did remove a cabinet that was over the stove to open up the space. We COOK! Both of us are in the kitchen the majority of the time we're together. Like the rustic pan rack, but really need to bring more light over the cooking/prep area. Not sure if we should just find new panels for the existing florescent fixtures or what.

While looking up, yes we still have popcorn over half the room. I think I want to install a faux copper tile or other color so the textures aren't an issue.

Critique away! Any ideas are great to hear because we're struggling on what to do as a liveable fix to get us through five years.

The long term is to move the kitchen altogether to the dining room where there is a beautiful view where it is open to the family room. The kitchen will then become a formal dining space and I'll be asking more questions from you then!!

Thanks! All is so appreciated! T & M