How about a window frame print? The view you always wish you had?

(this is actually a tile mural. But you get the idea.)

Paris?

A mirror would be fine there. Just make sure it doesn't interfere with the fridge door. And as you're not reflecting a view, use antiqued mirror. It will still reflect the light, but obscure the reflection. You can also add a mirrored backsplash, using Velcro or double sided tape, over an existing backsplash.

teamaltese - Thank you for your thoughts. I had thought about hanging a "view" there too, but ultimately decided that I want more of a sunshiny effect.

Something like this maybe? Without the bathroom lights etc., obviously. Maybe point one of the can lights toward it too?

That would work!

auntthelma has a great idea...and I love the lake view "window".

felizlady - "auntthelma"?

I like the window frame with a mirror idea. The tile idea is really pretty, but it won't bring in more light.

patriciarhall - the shelf area doesn't have the under cabinet lighting like the other areas do. I think that is part of it. But painting the support brackets is a good idea.

Actually, I would change the brackets to a simpler line without the scrolls. Bead boarding the yellow wall and painting glossy white will be a real light changer. Thanks for letting me chime in.

There is beadboard on both side walls. I could add it to the end wall too...

a light or bright runner might offset some of the dark floor color. I also see white wainscoting bead board along the yellow wall.

guess we're thinking a like

I think you might get some mileage out of changing (or supplementing) your eyeball recessed lights with something that gives light in all directions, like a globe fixture. That would help prevent dark corners. Even with a low ceiling, you can find a slim flushmount to do the trick...

Anyway, just another thought.

I would do the entire yellow (peace) wall in bead board, floor to ceiling.

I like the idea of the mirror. Is it an open kitchen to other rooms? If there are surrounding rooms where you can add big windows that let additional natural light into the kitchen that would be an easy thing to do as well!

Pretty hilarious how hanging a mirror on the wall turned into totally re-doing the wall and adding light fixtures. No wonder our budgets get so out of hand so quickly.

So much easier to spend other's money and manpower!