With the existing cabinets, a few small changes may help w flow and current lighting:

lighter wall colour

under and over cabinet lighting

remove items from counter by fridge to open more workspace

choose a white counter that is light reflective

remove items from fridge so that it may reflect light, too

Add a bright area rug to protect soft floor

choose a highly reflective backslash, and don't wrap it around corners of back wall

trade over-cabinet items to glass, high gloss ceramic or shiny metals

extend the passthrough counter and add barstools for guests

I also seem to work primarily between my sink and stove:)

Consider moving the microwave (or possibly toaster oven - I'm not sure which it is) over to the counter by the fridge. The paper towel holder is a bit close to the stove top - it worries me as a possible fire hazard. I would put it on a stand-up holder where the microwave is now. Then, put a small strip of LED under cabinet lighting under those cabinets to the right of the stove.

If you do not have another story above the kitchen, you might think about a solar tube or skylight.

I recently got new, light quartz counters and a subway tile backsplash. I found that alabaster subway tile works well with my wood cabinets.

https://www.houzz.com/photos/my-pics-work-in-progress-phvw-vp~57088087

A light tile floor would brighten the room. It is a little harder and cooler on the feet, but it last a long time and many tile floors are very lovely. If that option is too costly or not what you want, one of my friends is getting the luxury vinyl tiles. These are softer but they are not as long lasting as real tile.

You also might want to call in a lighting expert. That is not my expertise, but I know good lighting can make all the difference.

You may want to ban all from the kitchen while you are cooking:) I don't have a solution to that problem. I am often tripping over two dogs that also congregate in the corner between sink and stove and various kids, who are pretty much grown up and really trying to help.

If you can do without the upper cabinets - even all the upper cabinets on the stove wall, you could do a pretty hood with at least one window. Even the absence of the uppers in that area could let in more light.

West HIlls - Kitchen · More Info

I have seen this - window in front of the stove. There are considerations before doing this - I am not sure what they all are - the type of glass used and whether or not the window opens and any code requirement are some things that I have heard need to be considered.

Hartman Residence, Galveston · More Info

I could see adding a window to the back if the uppers go,too - box shelving next to a smaller window won't make use of the light the way open shelving can.

I strongly vote for a lowered counter.

It doesn't really look like you have the room for a new doorway without cabinet/ sink reconfiguration, but if so, get an estimate, including flooring- and have them check for a load bearing wall . I personally think that a new lighting plan would be more cost effective and useful.

Adding cabs overhead gives you more dark wood trapping accent light - a polished look, but not one that gives a more open feel to the space.