Sledgehammer and a dumpster is the usual start to a gut job. After you have a design plan and a 70 K budget.

Try a new paint color!

what does 'update' mean to you? what is the budget? what do you want? you're going to have to narrow it down if you want help.

Our plan is to do a kitchen remodel ,drop removed , island centered , floor replaced, newountertop. Maybe renovation is the word not updating

Looking for new layout options, cabinet color ideas , best choice incountertops,color scheme, an flooring

I think people want to know your budget so they can offer you the best options - as the best choice in countertops will be expensive.

For a new layout you really need a kitchen designer, however Houzzers might be able to help you if you have a design to show. It is difficult to have start with a design from scratch from a few pictures.

IMO you do not have the space for a center island , a counter depth fridge would the first purchase if it was my kitchen. Removing the soffit can open up a can of worms that bleed money . Get someone to tell you what is in them. U shaped kitchens are usually quite nice to work in , not every kitchen needs or can handle an island. New lighting would be a must have, If you can remove the soffits without huge expense then cabinets to the ceiling would be my choice . Since you have 2 windows I would close the one by the sink put your range there so that it could be vented directly outside.You will need a KD to get the best from the space these are just some issues I would address.

Personally I don't think your kitchen looks bad at all. Maybe change the floor to something brighter, and different window treatments to allow more light in the room. Also you could maybe add a fresh coat of paint maybe some sort of light color to bring some color in the room.

Nice work!!

I'm still unclear if you want to completely replace the cabinetry or not. If so, your options are numerous. What would be most beneficial for you is a kitchen designer. You have a great large space to work with. For example, in order to add an island, like you mentioned, I would remove the peninsula. Definitely, get rid of the soffit, light fixtures, update dining table/chairs/barstools as well. Of course, these are all things a kitchen designer can help walk you through based off the way you utilize your kitchen.

What is your style?

Thank you No designer yet We have removed soffit removed penisula placed an island ,recessed lighting now time to pick an floors,countertops an back splash an what to do with existing cupboards

Paint or donate existing cabinets. Remove the 2 shelved cabinets at the end of the rows that have 3 little shelves on them. Surround the fridge in a cabinet.

Do you want a total makeover? I love the space and it seems you are getting enough of daylight. I would start from cabinets and opt for white option. They will open up the space additionally. Wolf York White cabinetry, for example, has simple, clean lines and gorgeous hardware that can really make the space look elegant and classy. For countertops, I would go with Super White Quartzite for durability and beautiful look.