another view of the kitchen.

Start with removing coupons and magnets, and making a folder for "special artwork"

Then a budget for what bothers you most. Fridge location is horrible.......so think carefully before you leap.

The 1st thing I noticed is the island looks small for the space. Looks like there is room to extend it. It would add more seating & storage.

I would paint the walls into a cooler shade, for example, light grey. For backsplash, I would choose a combination of white and grey, like Bergamo Herringbone polished marble tile. I think it will neutralize the yellow in your cabinets to an extent.

See the photo:

Not sure how much you want to undertake, but...
Is the pantry open or closed in on the side away from the counter? If so, can you remove and put refrigerator in that spot for ease of access to the refrigerator? Would a modified pantry fit int the current refrigeratorspot? I would prefer the counter and cabinets extend where frig is now, especially with window or door next to it.
If you are seeking color relief, SW Toque White has grey undertones, and neutralizes yellow tones in wood.
Oh, I have the same problem of "over accessorizing" my refrigerator. I've vowed to purge every week.

thanks for all the ideas! will work on decluttering my fridge door. and look into swapping the pantry with where the fridge goes. love all the wall paint options too houzers!

Hi, what’s on the other side of the room? Can you post s picture? Thanks!

deck door by the fridge and a large cut out window overlooking the entryway stairs. thats a yellow wall. the adjacent rooms is one long dining and living room.

so the kitchen has to tie into this part of the L-floor plan.

For a quick update to the year 2018, just say "no" to Word Art. I count 3 of them!

Your wood floors are really nice. When you decide how much you want to do and spend for the update, don't touch the wood floors, and keep them in mind when deciding on any colors elsewhere.

Get an interior designer asap, who will also have KITCHEN DESIGNER in her pocket. You need help in considering the entire living space, which appears to lack a lot of basic comforts, such as seating..... a rug......

Don't start a lipstick remodel approach. Make a budget,,,,,a plan.... and get some on site help with your space. All of it.

I think you said it yourself - "waaay too much yellow." Start by painting away that yellow.

An easy update would be to find an awesome long counter height table to replace the island. Instant update.

It's a nice backdrop as it is, maybe with paint same color as floor. Then a super table set as said, in a color like burnt red?

How many feet are between corner of island and corner of rail/babygate?

Recessed lights - some say can be more neutral a white... ?

longer:

I don't hate soft golden beige walls - but could add grey to white frame:

https://www.houzz.com/products/crosshatch-gray-blackout-tie-up-window-shade-single-panel-42x63-prvw-vr~90836861

I don't think I'd do backsplash with changes to come in appliances, etc..

everdebz, thanks for your help! much appreciated.

We think painting the walls will definitely help, and it looks like you can add in a longer island. It doesn't look like you need another backplash unless you want to take out your existing one.