Lol home built in 70s and had apartment size built in for fridge - going to eventually get counter depth fridge

Is this going to be an update or a total gut? I can see a lot that should be changed but need to know if you are planning a refresh or a remodel.

Since the two things that seem to bother you most (lighting & appliances) can be done totally independently of each other, I'd suggest doing one the way you really want it done, then do the other later. Me, I'd start w/ the lighting. I hate to use the phrase, but to me it's "dated". Further, I hate fluorescent lighting.

Don't do anything until you are ready to gut the whole thing out. "Band aid" solutions are a waste of money. Get a good kitchen designer who can give you "ready to bid" drawings so you can get a realistic quote on your kitchen.

Good luck!!

Just a remodel for my budget
Yes lighting will be canned to match rest of house
Should I replace granite?
Agree w poster whole cabinet redo by fridge was made for a tiny apt fridge lol
Reliant cabinets? Some wear tear
Knocking out above cooktop makes sense to open it up since so small and not needing space

I disagree that it needs to be all or nothing. Bad lighting while you wait to save for a new kitchen will make you crazy.

Replace not reliant* cabinets

Sigh - well perhaps should wait to win lotto to gut lol not happening

More or less want to be happier with some minor tweaks

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The kitchen has Giant Problems. It needs to be gutted. And a new layout. Don't waste 1-2K on new lighting that won't end up being in the right spot. Put it towards the bigger remodel.

For now, re do the ceiling lights. Find pulls you like for the cabinets, top screw going in the existing hole , if you choose sleek ones and modern lights and a cabinet or shelves above the fridge, you'll feel better about your kitchen.

No one has asked about comparable homes. Before spending any money, you need to assess the investment, and whether you'd recoup anything if/when you sell. Even if you're hell-bent on doing something (and I can see why that could be), you want to make sure you don't over-improve. If comparable homes in your area all need major work, that should limit your budget. Conversely, if you are the least expensive home in your neighborhood and you have at least $20-30,000 available, gut the whole thing.

Premier Cabinets, your observation is rational & reasonable for those who may sell their home in foreseeable future. However, my wife & I decided we're going "toes up" in our house, so we did it way we wanted, irrespective of what may happen to home values around us & for what features some prospective buyer may be looking years hence.