I would just start with backsplash maybe do a peel and stick I did one that looks very nice and it's not too expensive or hard to do. Overall since you have kids I suggest keep laminate and then do Quartz or granite a few years when they are mostly out of the house and in the meantime think of your current laminate as a sacrificial item if it gets banged up or damaged who cares in a few years new countertops anyway. This is just my thoughts on what I would do.

I would get the cabinets professionally painted white. People are needlessly obsessed about granite or marble countertops when laminate ones do the job ok. I say this as the owner of laminate countertops. Some new light fixtures as well and the kitchen will look much better.

Life is too short to be financially stressed. You have kids to educate. You have retirement to budget for.

I would PLAN FOR new Quartz counters in a light color that you like with the wood. (Look at Cosentino Lusso) Kids cannot stain Quartz and it comes in lots of light colors unlike granite. You will not mind the (very nice) wood cabinets with a beautiful light countertop and backsplash. Pick the backsplash at the same time too. Then save the money. Do not do it if you cannot afford to pay for it up front. But don't save $300 countertops for years (that is probably what it cost the builder to put them in) just because they are not worn out. Donate them to a Habitat resale store. If it takes you a while to save for the new counters, then let go of preserving the old ones and let the kids help cut vegetables and draw and paint and make stuff on them- and say to yourself these are going bye bye! Be the mom who makes homemade blue silly putty with all the neighborhood kids! If you let go of trying to keep them from minor damage you will you enjoy those counters a lot!

I would correct the island first. The overhang in the front looks funny, and cheats the amount for the counter stools in the back. If this is due to a spacing issue (i.e. Not enough room behind island for full 12 inch extension) then get rid of island. Else, you could try the paint color of your dreams on the island with a gorgeous butcher block from IKEA. Will only run you a couple hundred bucks and completely update the look of the room. Good luck!

Also, another backsplash over the 3 inch post form would look weird. Wait until you have a flat counter to put in a backsplash from the counter to the cabinet. For now, try a scrubbable wallpaper.

I fail to understand the backsplash mania. Keep your counter tops as they are. A company called Granite Solutions will come in and put an extremely hard new counter top over the one you have - for a moderate price.

Ugh! Do not do granite transformations crap. Wait until you can pay for solid Quartz or granite.

I thought this may interest you. http://sandandsisal.com/2011/02/kitchen-island-makeover.html

You can even make it larger
Overhang should not exceed 10 inches on all sides (without support) and leave 42" of walkway in the working areas.

Brighten the lighting. Add decorations on top of cabinets.

Have FUN with the backsplash. Tile is more permanent.. Painted can always be redone as often as you may want.

Show your REAL personality. You'll get more value than just keeping up with the neighbors. There's song: "I gotta be me..."

I think your kitchen looks very nice, clean and functional. The refrigerator appears to be new, but it is huge and may be necessary for a family with kids. Aesthetically, counter depth would look better but may not be functional for you, and would be a pretty big expense. I would just make a few small changes. New pendants over the island. The blinds over the sink look heavy and dark. Do you need them for privacy? Can you post a pic with the blinds rolled up? That would make the room brighter. Agree with jbtanyderi- the backsplash thing has gotten way out of hand. Keep it simple.

If you have a very limited budget, you should not start replacing counter tops and cabinets, it's not worth it. The kitchen however seems dark and outdated because of all the wood and trims it has. If you just paint the cabinets, the kitchen will get a fresh look already. I just found these tips on pinterest to help you do the work yourself http://www.polkadotchair.com/2016/02/tips-for-painting-kitchen-cabinets.html/. The kitchen on the main picture has basically the same layout yours does, so you can get an idea of how your kitchen would look like after the transformation!!

Also, you can change some minor elements, such as the lamps, the stools, the curtain and the cabinet door handles. Putting your efforts on this will give you less stress, less logistical problems and less money spent.


Then of course... once you have some money put aside, you can think of making actual transformations. Here is an article about different types of cabinet constructions, materials, cabinet doors, and several images for inspiration. http://mykukun.com/need-kitchen-cabinets-heres-everything-you-need-to-know/. This just gave me an idea for a bold makeover that wouldn't cost a thing! Consider removing the cabinet doors on those above the counter top (you will probably have to paint anyway, in order to hide some of the holes). The issue I see is the trims on the top, which you might have to remove as well. Transforming closed cabinets into open shelves will give a modern touch, but you have to be good at keeping the kitchen clutter-free...

As for the counter tops, I found another article on the same website about the different materials (granite, marble, quartz, steel, soapstone, concrete, wood, glass, laminate and tiles... which show how many options you actually have!) and how to choose the best for your project. http://mykukun.com/how-to-choose-the-right-countertop-for-your-kitchen/

Hope this helps :)

Before updating countertops, ask yourself some questions:

1) Are you happy with the layout of the kitchen and cabinets (workflow, enough drawers, pantry). FUNCTIONALITY .

2) Are you happy with the appearance of the cabinets (color, overlay, door style, wood species). STYLE.

Never upgrade a countertop until FUNCTIONALITY has been addressed . STYLE issues can often be addressed through new doors or professionally repainting.

Everyone has different tastes. IMO kitchen has too much of a wood look, would change out floor or change the finish on the cabinets (paint white perhaps). Kitchen seems too dark.

Virtually any type of countertop over 12' is going to have a seam.

First order of business is determining the future of cabinets -- replace, update or leave as is. That decision impacts countertop and in turn backsplash.

Three basic countertop price points : off the shelf laminate (dirt cheap), granite/quartz starting $50-60 SF and up, and Wilsonart HD about $20 SF.

I would not update to granite or Quartz if you expect to REPLACE cabinets. If simply updating the appearance or leaving the cabinets as is, decide if granite or Quartz is worth the expense or if it is a priority.

Wilsonart is a nice product with lots of finishes. If this is the route you go, get it fabricated without the 4" integrated backsplash. It should last easily 15-25 years. With no integrated backsplash 4" tall, do a regular backsplash . Coordinate countertop, backsplash and wall color with other finishes.

I really like that recycled glass counter. Pretty!

I have noticed some pendant lights I like. That could give this kitchen more personality without a huge financial commitment.

I like the function of the space, just not in love with how it looks. I do like the idea of letting the kids do whatever they want on the counters while I figure this out.

Thanks for the ideas and comments.

Agree with Hal about the excess wood. Painting the cabinets can correct that and add some contrast. If the color you're considering would match the counters, I'd do it now so you can feel better about the space. Even if it's only the bottom ones. You could also change the wall color, add decorative accents, etc. Good luck!

I find it interesting that the two 'pairs' of upper cabinets flanking the window don't open as one. The doors both have either left or right handles.

Good eye Stephanie s! That is rather bazaar looking.

We once put a backsplash with our older laminate countertop n it actually made a world difference. I actually began to love that kitchen. Honestly, I wouldn't redo counters unless u can't stand them n esp if it's only because others in the neighborhood have them. Do things for you n remember u don't have to have the most expensive items to find beauty in a room. But if u r determined u want them then don't wait for kids to move because u say u r staying but u never really know what the future holds n may see it's different than u thought. I do understand everything ur post says because I find myself now with the same situation as ur in. But the bones r good so I personally am gonna work with what I have. It's surprising what just a little effort in work n money u need to do to make a room become a real beauty. Good luck :)

It seems the laminate is what is bugging you. You could do a faux granite finish on them and paint the backsplash the same. I would leave the cabinets and floor alone.

Is it possible to take a picture of the kitchen in better light?

This is my kitchen in better light. Perhaps a backsplash would make me like it more, and it wouldn't cost that much, and could add some much needed color. I have been eyeing a teal subway tile. Painting the walls would be easiest, but it is hard to know where to stop with open concept.

I like the look of painted cabinets, but I think I would still hate the countertop. We have that same stained wood all over the house, but I don't mind it in the bathroom where we put in a quartz counter.I actually like this room.

http://www.carraratiles.com/carrara-marble-italian-white-bianco-carrera-1x3-herringbone-mosaic-tile-polished.html

Replace the counter. It doesn't look to be that big so get some quotes. It's bothering you enough to ask the question, plus you love your new bathroom counter...

That said, I would go with something that will age well...light neutral that's not too busy and not too expensive.

If you are handy at all, tiling is easy. You can tile with your teal subway tile. And not feel too guilty in ten (or so) years when you want a change.

http://www.countertopguides.com/guides/how-much-do-different-countertops-cost.html

Lots of good suggestions above. I like traditional & transitional, so I like Lucidos' suggestion. Is your island movable? I don't electrical outlets & where I am, code requires power on permanent island.

If it were me I would just replace the counter and paint the walls. I don't see how a nice and new backsplash is going to make the laminate countertop any better. Actually I would paint the cabinets too while I was at it. Why wait? A mini-lift done right, might satisfy you for some time.

If you do nothing else, I would change the hardware on the cabinets. It adds nothing to the kitchen.

Before you do anything, come up with a plan and a budget, because one thing leads to another to another....and before you know it, your kitchen is all torn up and you have no idea how it got there.

Look at pictures of kitchens with your color cabinets if you are going to keep them. Google images has great pictures. See what else you like and dislike about the kitchens you see.

Make a story board ( I know, it's what I always say!!) of pictures, materials, colors, etc. It will truly help you make a plan of attack.

Bruce Crawford had such a great plan, he was able to do his in stages and pay for it as he went.....kitchen is done and it is all paid off!!

A really good kitchen designer can make all the difference.

We on Houzz can give our opinions, but in the end, you have to live in it!!

Economically it almost always makes more sense to leave it and move.

Nice kitchen, including the cabinets.

For myself, and on my budget, I'd probably do nothing until the need to change the counter tops is there. However, since you clearly don't like the counter tops, and if this is your home for the foreseeable future -- and, of course, budget permitting -- do begin looking for your new counter tops. (Would not recommend granite -- have been told it stains.) Consider DuPont Corian Solid Surface Countertops -- everyone I know that has Corian, likes it.

https://www.google.com/search?q=%E2%80%A2DuPont+Corian+Solid+Surface+Countertops.&biw=1366&bih=622&source=lnms&tbm=isch&sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwiHwYfmroPNAhWGyoMKHRioAT4Q_AUIBygC

If there are budget issues, you might consider changing only the island to the look you want but keeping a compatible color scheme so you don't need to change out all the counter tops right away -- make the island counter top compatible with your closest dining area on the other side of the island from the kitchen..

You have wants and you have needs, right? Your kitchen may not be as fancy as those of the neighbors, but it's practically new, it's functional, and it's certainly not ugly. You know that even modest improvements are likely to cost thousands that might better be used to save up for college, retirement, and life's inevitabilities. Is it really all that important to you to make these changes now? It's not that I don't understand how you feel, but obsessing about having the perfect kitchen may not be all that healthy for you and your family. I do hope I haven't offended you, and I wish you the best.

Seems nice to me.

Granite is expensive and lovely, but it is not as indestructible as a lot of people think. It has to be sealed regularly every 6 months as it's a natural stone. Yes, it's beautiful (and I will never go back to anything else after living with laminate forever over the years), but you have to be aware of what's going on around it or it will stain.

Vinegar, lemon juice, tomato juice, orange juice and acids are bad news for granite. They can cause permanent etching in the stone. Spills if not caught right away will sit and erode the surface just as they do to tooth enamel. If you have a houseful and are not on top of things, it will drive you crazy wiping up the spills.

Laminate is the same-it will stain quickly and easily. Kool-aid and red wine anyone?

NEVER clean granite with vinegar or alcohol or other homemade concoctions as a lot of "natural cleanser" people try to advocate cleaning homes with...

It's the fastest way to ruin granite! It just needs plain water and a touch of mild dish soap for the occasional sticky jam, etc. That is it for cleaning.

Granite is not very forgiving of oopsies or dropping things. With young children, or careless or clumsy teens, you will be replacing lots of dishes and patching up owies.

You cannot just put a hot pan on it! It can also etch or damage the sealing. Use of a trivet is advisable.

That said, children can learn to respect things and care for them if shown and taught how.

Just because you dislike the laminate doesn't mean that you should let your kids go hog-wild and do whatever they want on the counters. That's not teaching them anything. It's childish and irresponsible. They are going to learn from your example. They should be taught to respect all of their belongings and those of others at all times, regardless of perceived value of the goods.

That's how kids end up becoming spoiled brats. Quickly. They are not having to care or pay for things, so Mommy and Daddy buy and buy, and the kids keep breaking things and throwing things, etc.

They will also likely find themselves in trouble along the way. Suzy might cut an apple on your counter and assume she can do that anywhere else she likes. She will ruin someone else's counter.

And if you do decide to donate those counters after all the abuse? Don't bother. You would be better donating them now while in great/good shape so someone that would really appreciate them for their home can use them.

Don't confuse your kids and complicate their lives anymore than you have to. If laminate is too much trouble for you now, granite is certainly not going to help you or your kids.

P.S. A tile back-splash is practical and not that expensive if you keep it simple. Keep the tile to a decent size-the less grout-lines that you have, the less chance for staining. You will still have to have both sealed.

And pick a style and colour that you really like and that will go with your kitchen. Don't pick subway tile just because everyone else has it. Unless of course you also happen to really like it.

A happy and well-used functional family kitchen filled with home-cooking and baking is *always* more beautiful than the most "lovely" but empty and unused gourmet kitchen for show.

Buck the majority and really do something rare now! Eat dinner at the table with your family every night and listen and share! It is free and will cost you nothing but time.

That will be one of the best gifts you could ever give. I guarantee they will remember that rather than the counters!! Kids want love, not granite. Be that home where all the neighbour's kids want to be. If they are at your home? I guarantee it's because there is something big missing at their's. Kids are smart. They may not be able to express their needs in words, but you know that if children or animals are near you, it's because they love you and want love in return. Be the one family in 100 that eats together!!

There are new materials coming in for counters.

Taking another look at the second photos...adding a few more pot lights over the island would probably make the most change in the kitchen of all.

We have done hundreds of diy projects over the years. If you have never tiled before? Don't practice with a kitchen back-splash. You will REALLY hate the kitchen if it's off.

There is a knack to cutting tiles by hand or machine and using nippers. There is a knack to cutting tiles to avoid wastage and cutting tiles for electrical outlets can be a pain.

Practice tiling on an old coffee table that you can't muck-up and get the cheapest tiles you can get at a garage sale.

Pot lights are a medium difficulty on diy scale if you have experience with lighting. It's better to have it done by an electrician if you hesitate at all.

Don't do peel and stick anything.

If you like the counter you put in the bathroom and the cabinets are the same wood in the kitchen, it would make sense to pick the same pattern to feel a sense of house unity. If you pick the grey, then yes, add more lighting.

Home Depot always has 12 month no payments. If it really drives you batty, perhaps that's a way to get the counters, back-splash and lights early? Keep the floors and counters. That's a huge expense.

My mom put Corian counters in her kitchen 15 years ago and she still loves it.

I can see how this can become a rabbit hole. If I change the countertops, at minimum, I'd probably need to replace the kitchen sink. And the tile backsplash would go from something I am thinking about to something that would have to be done once that ugly laminate with the three inch backsplash is gone.

And then the master bath counter would be the next one to question, as there is laminate in there too, and it is even uglier.

We actually do have family dinners most nights of the week. I do a lot of cooking, and my house is best for baking during the holidays. I am in the kitchen a lot.

I think I am going to do a little window shopping, see what my options are locally and get a better idea for costs.

I agree about the pulls. The same ones are all over the house, and I am not a fan. That might be a small thing that helps start putting my stamp on this cookie cutter house.

Carol Johnson, don't appreciate the Granite Transformations crap remark. We've had ours for nine years and been very happy with it. Just because you don't personally like something doesn't make it crap.

Well, we all get to have our own opinions.

All Americans have rights.

Personally, I have seen the counter transformations first hand. They work and look fine on NON postform (waterfall/dripedge) laminate. On the postform - it's a bit of lipstick on a pig.

Do you think maybe part of the issue is the frustration of being "stuck" with someone else's choices? I ask because that's how I felt when we moved into our current home less than a year ago. Instead of the white and grey combo of our old house, I inherited a house of brown cabinets, black granite, and an awful stacked stone kitchen backsplash. Everyone else thought it looked nice but it bummed me out because I never would have chose those finishes and it didn't feel like it was my house. It was overwhelming and made even worse when I started to get estimates. So I took a step back and reevaluated, without bias, what I had to work with. In the end instead of a 30k kitchen remodel, I spent 3k for a kitchen that I just as happy with and have no desire to change.

So my suggestion to you is see what you can do with the area before you make any big changes. I would change the lights over the island and the window treatment. Then I would focus on what you can add to the space. Maybe some rugs,(if you like rugs in the kitchen), some colorful accessories or kitchen linens. I am not one for a lot of things on counters but from my recent experience sometimes that is what is needed. It can also hold you over until you decide what you want to do with the counters.

I will say that if you intend to change out the counters don't bother with a backsplash now. I asked about that when getting estimates and was told that it more than likely will get destroyed in some fashion when the new counters are installed. I was also told the same thing about adding new counters when you may change out the cabinets later. Just something to think about.

Check out these lighting options. More at www.tjferrie.com

take a look at my countertop/backsplash change out under before and after section. Ours is similar but with different shape island. I LOVE my taupe subway tiles.

Squirm update would be to hangs out your cabinet hardware to brushed nickel, to match your appliances. Go with something substantial.

A quick....change

From now on I intend to say "squirm update" whenever I speak to my husband...

:)

Thanks for the smile today 558georges.

Cute goof--squirm update :-)

Squirm update....LOL!

I think the disappointment comes from that we were ready to leave behind builder basics and buy a more upscale home. Then I talked my family into this house due to location and layout (the floor plan is amazing and satisfies all our needs, and the location cannot be beat, but finishes were builder basic).

We did some updates, but after you buy the home and live there awhile, it is harder to justify the costs of updating, even when the house cost was far below your max budget.

I suppose we will be here awhile, so I can give long and hard thought about my kitchen updates, and new things may come up in the next 10-15 years. I am interested in what is new in countertops, because I noticed I get tired of granite with stainless steel at times, and the spouse and I are debating whether we would do vessel sinks or under the counter sinks in the master bath. We do not agree!

Porcelain is new in counters.