So the issue before the cosmetic changes is the layout and durability for the future long term appeal and function of everything else. The cabinets and presence of base drawers is a plus. The microwave as opposed to vented hood could be an issue long term when this kitchen is compared to others. The kitchen as passageway to other areas w the various doorways and then walk lanes through your work triangle is an issue. If though you do not anticipate a redo of kitchen to change these factors I’d say go ahead but watch your price point w selections.....basic hardwood floor/ granite counter and / coordinating basic subway backsplash / more basic single bowl sink...... if it were my space , and (solely replacing ) was the goal.

Thank you, herbflavor. I should have mentioned that I plan to remove the microwave above the range and also, down the road, I will replace the range with stainless to match the other appliances and also ensure it is flat at the back (no idea what this is called but hopefully you know what I mean). It is not in my budget to redo the kitchen in terms of the functionality that you referred to so I was going to focus on redoing tile, backsplash and counters. Do you think honed black counter top black farmhouse single bowl sink would work better than going light?

I was considering this type of look but worry that it will feel too dark

First is function so IMO you wait until you can afford to do the space right. IMO the kitchen is already dark the window is useless the layout is not good so the expression putting lipstick on a pig comes to mind. New floors and new counters cost a lot of money for really no purpose in this space . Right now it looks to be in decent shape and the floors are working so my advice would be wait until you can make the space much better . BTW if you think stainless is hard to care for in a sink just wait to have a black one.

The "window" looks into the family room addition. It is in decent shape. Really it is just the counter tops that are quite beat up so maybe I could just put in a new laminate and hold off on anything more until I do a large scale kitchen renovation. I did not realize the layout was not good.

I just would not take on the up charge of the sink. The thing I’d really want first is a good idea abt hardwood floor as it is an upgrade generally for the home as it involves the entry zone .... so what sq footage and possible diy vs. Install by a pro. I might consider corian or similar w integrated sink and again granite can be wonderful w choices and price points . You want a farmhouse sink? Then go ahead ... it’s personal choice . Light vs Dark ? I’d bear in mind backsplash as you want a coordinated look w this slightly smaller kitchen . Again if there is a particular selection you desire, then hey , go for it! These days, there are so many great options I’d do what is right for the space ultimately. Look at lots of things!!

thank you, what did you mean by "I would not take up the charge of the sink"? Do you mean you wouldn't bother replacing?

Regarding the flooring....the rest of the house has the old school 3/4" oak flooring so if I change the flooring to hardwood in the kitchen and entryway, I would have to change out all the hardwood in the living room and kitchen. This was my thought process anyway. I did check out the cost and for the flooring I like, it would be a lot of $.

To answer your question, the sq footage of the combined entry way and kitchen which is currently tiled, is about 170 sq ft.

what did you mean about backsplash? I was thinking black granite counter top and then a simple backsplash and yes I def want a coordinated look. warm, inviting and not choppy and misfitting.

thanks again

* I meant hardwood in living room and dining room sorry

“Up charge of sink” is what I said . Your proposed sink is one of the most costly ways . Cost of sink/ cabinet to house it and the install . What is the look that appeals? The dark ? Do that w those silgranite sinks and dark counter. The farmhouse look ? Get a traditional faucet and rustic backsplash and hardware for cabs. I would absolutely draw the line and not do the sink that way but you can ignore my thoughts about it. We all Assess needs/wants a little bit differently

Have you taken an image of existing hardwood floor to a pro flooring retailer in your area?

I have not taken a photo of my existing hardwood floor to a pro retailer. are you suggesting I do that so they can match that for my kitchen? The silgranite sinks seem to be within the same price range as some farmhouse sinks. Perhaps you mean that just inserting another sink of same style that is already there, will save me a lot on install? I did not realize there would be a lot of extra costs to put farmhouse there instead.