I forgot to ask if you want to keep the same window in the kitchen, the one above the sink? If not, then is your exterior facade brick or vinyl siding? If it's brick then that may pose an issue moving/removing the window. Only because matching the new brick to the old brick can be very tricky. Let's start with what your budget, wants/needs are, expectations, etc. and we can go from there as far as ideas. I'm not sure what area you are located, but most professionals will provide you with an estimate/design options at no charge to you. As far as colors that are trending right now, I'm seeing a ton of blues in kitchens, with a more eclectic/farmhouse/modern design. We also have done two kitchens in caviar black with stainless steel appliances with the dining room/living room/adjoining rooms being in a repose grey and barely grey. However, that is the trend for our area (Mechancisburg/Carlisle, PA). The trends may be different in your neighborhood.

I appreciate your advice! I'd like to change the window above the sink and have vinyl siding so shouldn't pose an issue. I'd also like to add doors to the dining room leading out to a patio. Lots to do! Not sure what can be done with a budget between 20 and 40. We're located in CT.

You can definitely leave it open going into the living room if that is your preference. You have the option of also doing a half wall or leave a large opening with counter space for cooking and an overhang on the other for stool seating. It's hard to say for certain without inspecting the home. Would need to know what walls are load bearing. I'm attaching some photos...these are not ours! I found these from other marvelous builders on houzz. However, your budget is extremely important. I would sit down and calculate out what's feasible for you.

I love the first layout. Bright and open with a large island with seating for the kids/guests. Want to get everyone out of the kitchen when entertaining!

The photo you like I got off of google which lead to a pintrest account for a consumer. Not sure who the contractor was on that one but it is beautiful!

Thank you kindly for your help!

How exciting for you that you will get to redo your kitchen space! There have certainly been a lot of kitchens and homes in general that have followed the grey trend. The grey trend looks great- but if you don't like grey, then choose what you do like! That's what I love about houzz.com- so many great ideas for color schemes, features, decor and overall design! Good luck and have fun!

White/grey kitchens aren't on their way out in my opinion! Honestly, all types of different coloured kitchens can work if done right!

A 20K budget is keep what you have, add lighting, new counters, and a new backsplash, and paint the walls. Not gray. Gray is trending downward big time. It’s cold and unfriendly. And wood cabinets are rising once again. Yours would be at the front of the new trend.

Moving walls and reconfiguring the world needs a far more robust budget.

A friend of mine lives in Fairfield CT. Are you in the more eastern side or the western part of the state? Eastern CT is about the most expensive costs, similar to NYC, Boston, or SF in labor costs. She re-did her kitchen, no structural work, but new cabinets, appliances, counters, faucet, sink, lighting, floors. She spent hours finding deals, did some DIY (painting and backsplash), chose lower-mid cabinets, Home Depot backsplash, less-expensive granite counters, and it cost her $40k (and I think it was more - that is what she is admitting to - she told me the electric "took her breath away"). I am sorry, but your budget will work if you just switch things out and get new, but for the scope you described and the structural things, you may have to double your budget. I am sorry that is bad news, but better to be realistic now.

Also, don't forget venting - the hood and the ductwork. That OTR MW looks inadequate for exhaust in today's world, and in a brand new kitchen you'll need a proper hood with correct ducting.

Thank you for your feedback! We were aiming low but realize now that our structural dreams will increase our budget range. Would still appreciate advice with a larger budget in mind!

Hire a Kitchen Designer. Your dream renovation is 150-200K. You live in an expensive location.

Post in the kitchen forum.

White and grey are not on their way out if that is what you love. Find the style that you know will make you happy for years to come. I am one that could never have wood tone cabinets or trim. Those colors just don’t appeal to me and never have. I love a white kitchen and have had 3 of them and getting ready for my 4th. I also prefer the coolness of grey and wouldn’t ever use beige. But others wouldn’t like my choices. That’s the wonderful thing, we can all choose what makes us happy. Don’t worry about trends, get what you love.