I want to gut our kitchen and just start over. I just don't know where to start! Definitely want to hire someone, but am so nervous as so many friends have had bad experiences...

I do know:
1. We need more space
2. We want to tear out desk and semi walk in pantry and turn to a butler's pantry area with pull out pantry.
3. Would love to open to fireplace room on other side of wall
4. Would love an island, but don't know where or how it could fit
5. Super dark, so I want to lighten/brighten (probably white or light gray)

Need designer help on:
1. Biggest bang for the buck
2. Options!
3. Anything and everything

Thank you!!