so approx. 30 running feet of counter-in an L , or a galley with two 15 foot runs or similar. Is that correct? You should show the space....dark can be addressed w various actions. That seems to be your complaint. People address lighting, wall color and sheen, light fenestration through windows, backsplashes, removal of cabinetry from walls or replace w glass front doors/open shelves or a mixture. From your description I would first paint the walls an off white crisp cool shade-rid yourself of the dingy tan . the tile floor, if it remains might be well served with a very dark charcoal or dark brownish grout color change...the light gray pops out-not good to work with, but I like the tile enough, and mats can be laid out. The oak has to be scrutinized-what is the style here, how much of it, can any modifications be done, like painting or removing uppers, or changing door fronts. You need to show a picture of the kitchen not just a segment of wood and tile. Not sure why you fear a whitish counter....there are many whites available...You think it is contrast-yes it is a change but w coordinated backsplash can be stunning against the oak. It is a medium sized kitchen so light counter/backsplash will give good counterpoint to med-dark elements , and not be jarring , if done tastefully. A low budget means shop around....good basic quality like corian with a stainless sink or seamless sink is a respectable way to go, and get a basic white subway tile backsplash. Corian has special offers from time to time.

herbflavor, Thank you, I truly appreciate the time and thought you gave to my post. I think you hit upon every aspect of the issues with this kitchen. In my plea, I didn't want to lose readers with a lengthy explanation of the big picture. I really thought I would simply get a few shout outs of particular stone and granite to look at.

The short of it is that we are getting the house ready to put up for sale. I know that 'kitchens sell homes', but in this instance, the counters will be the only refresh (sink, faucet, cooktop). Even painting has a long boring story. This room and hall is in excellent condition in that regard. There are six door frames to cut around as well as a bay and another window. It is a huge undertaking and we are overwhelmed with planned painting everywhere in the house (painting all the dated stained 1990s trim, 30+ windows, 17 doors, 4 sets bifolds AND painting every room in the house except kitchen and one bedroom). This is just the beginning of our mini rehab (exterior, hardwood flooring, more).

We have changed some lighting and plenty of sun gets in. It's really not a darkness factor, rather the low contrast of the vast tile and medium wood tone that makes things rather dull. Your mention of sheen has convinced me that I need a polished counter. I really like the idea of darkening the tile grout. However, it is 6" tile and there are miles of grout. Again, it's all about the scope of the rest of our plans to spiff up. If I were to stay here, the floor would go and a new kitchen would be in order.

Our likely buyer profile would be a young family upgrading from a small starter, but can't afford the nearby new construction, and can't dump money into a fixer and doesn't want projects, but will dream of a future reno in a large well functioning kitchen space.

After viewing a Houzz story today, I am tending toward some variation of shiny light gray counters, despite the warm yellow brown wood tone. My layout is a central island, a bit bigger than 3 x 6, sink opposite amid an L comprised of wall oven to left, cook top to right, fridge in L. More uppers and lowers along wall on other side of island with smaller surfaces needing counter tops. The island will dominate. Other runs of the material will really be background.

Perhaps I'll reach our for a consult when I find a new home! You've given me a lot to think about. Thanks again.