I wouldn't think it necessary.

I like the staggered cabs! Architecturally interesting.

Well, it's a look. If you like it, it's fine.

To my mind, it's far too busy, and it draws attention to itself in a way that is unnecessary, especially when it's open to other rooms like that. They're just kitchen cabinets, not art work; they shouldn't try to be the center of attention.

I'd paint them a color that blends with the wall that they are mounted on. Less contrast.

Your cabinets staggered are fine. The only thing that looks off to me is the arch above the cooktop. I see the reason for the arch, the arched doorways, but it looks too low. Maybe change it up a little

I love the wood on your island also. Pretty color

Tammy Lawhorn, I've actually been researching that tonight! The arch has been bugging me for quite some time. Thanks everyone, I appreciate the input. I do find them distracting but I might re-evaluate once pendant lights are in and furniture.

Tatts, I really do prefer cabinets that extend up and that aren't staggered. I think my budget is not in line with my wishes though. Sigh. I like your idea of less contrast using paint to draw attention away from it. Thank you.

Shannon I think it will look better without the dog legs on each side. In other words just cut those off at the bottom of the arch. That shouldn't be that much of a change but I think it would look much better aesthetically..

I was thinking of changing the range hood to something like this, if I can find someone to do it!

That's a lot of stagger, but I think it's the contrast between the wall color and the cabinets that exaggerates it. However, don't worry about what's in style. Once your appliances are in together with the rest of your decor, it'll be beautiful. Lucky you.

Shannon, I don't think it looks bad. If I had to change something it would be the cabinet over the cooktop. At the very least, the top of that should be even w/the two outer cabinets. Although, what can you possibly reach up there? you have plenty of storage so I don't think those are necessary.

I like your idea of that range hood. I think that would be a perfect addition after removing the arch/cabinet.

just noticed this one too. this is your size.

Can you get rid of the cupboard doors either side of the range hood arch and have open shelving there

I personally prefer clean, contemporary lines, but I don't see what's the matter with the staggered cabinets here. I think your kitchen looks great so why spend the extra money?

I don't know about open shelving, but maybe if you did a few glass upper doors on either side?

Did you ever consider taking the cabs all the way up to the ceiling? you could have closed boxes or these glass type. If I had to choose over staggered or closed top, I'd choose the latter.

Shannon that wouldn't be hard to do. They could just take that section down and cut off the bottom. Can your cabinet guys do it?

If you want to change it, maybe this color is ok.

That wood hood looks like a fire hazard. It's too low to the cooktop.

Please stop second guessing yourself! No one will walk into this room and think, "Whoa, shame about the staggered cabinets." They will be blown away by how amazing your kitchen looks. The arch over the stovetop echoes the arched doorways, so is perfect.

I think hatetoshop has a point. I totally get wanting it to look "perfect" and I am currently doing the same thing in my space. That said, no one is going to notice anything in your house as much as you do. So before I would do anything I would consider why I am doing it...for others, or myself. If you don't like the cabinets and it's going to drive you crazy than you should do it. If you don't mind the cabinets, like hatetoshop said, people aren't going to walk into that space and think about the staggered cabinets. They are going to think "wow! Beautiful space!" Because it is a beautiful space.
That said, you asked for opinions. I always like my cabinets to go to the ceiling unless there is a vault. Just a personal preference. Good luck! Looks gorgeous already!

I like your kitchen. If I were to do anything, maybe cut the arch over the stove to match the square lines of the kitchen. But as pointed out above, it matches the doorway, so not super important. When you have all your pretty stuff in there it will look great!

You all are amazing! I truly appreciate the feedback. I don't want to spend any extra money if I don't have to so I am relieved by your comments. I never thought about the wood range hood bring a fire hazard because it's so low. I think I'm going to stick with the staggered cabinets and just raise the hood and make it more of a straight line because that should hopefully be an easy fix. Thank you everyone!

Beth H, I love the pictures and ideas, thank you. I especially like the first range hood picture.

If the staggered cabinets bother you, just paint the upper part of the wall the color of the cabinets! I don't like the look of lining the tops of cabinets with stuff, but a couple beautiful plates above the lower cabinets and maybe a real plant might do the trick. I'd live in it for awhile and just enjoy it.