I’m surprised at the $11k quote. Looking at your countertops, it doesn’t look like there is so much that the cost would be that high. Removing the current countertop and backsplash is a bit of hefty labor, but I would get more quotes. Have you calculated the total linear feet? Just doing the backsplash will be tricky, as you will be separating the backsplash stone from the countertop stone.

Hello Ryder, I haven't calculated the total linear feet needed BUT I do know there are a lot of cuts needed as there are 4 separate inlets with countertops and backsplash needed and the idea both contractors had (I got two quotes) was to lower the Island counters to make them level and pull them out a bit. Both quotes were roughly the same price and good labor is in extremely high demand in the area (Palm Springs are) so they can charge a lot. If you were in my shoes, would you consider just doing backsplash and have any idea what might look decent?

I might spend my extra money on something else. This doesn't look bad.

Embrace it. Can you find a color that coordinates with both your walls and the granite and paint the stucco around the stove? Do gold cabinet pulls that work with the granite. IMO, the stone on the island is the thing you need to get rid of. As a first pass, paint it the same color as the island then ponder it. Here's a nice article on a designer who worked with what she got, and made her home awesome. You can too! https://www.architecturaldigest.com/story/simple-updates-saved-this-designer-thousands-on-her-renovation

leave the stone by the bar stools. Find a slab of walnut or something for the bar top and the stretch of counter far right by the windows. leave the rest. You just need warmth inserted and two good spots for it. Get a bigger brownish toned rug for liv room....again: warmth. thats all it needs. Not crazy about wall color..probably go lighter and closer to cream but you can do that later.

I agree with you that the backsplash has got to go. Particularly around the stove. It seems like currently the focus when you look that way in the room and it doesn't seem to go with the stone island. (Do you like the stone island?)

What about shifting to a very sort if mottled neutral tile that picks up some of the colour

of flooring then putting something above stove with a bit of punch. I've seen tuscan tile scenes, iron decor, tile patterns. I think the diamond pattern mottled tiles as in first picture below seems quite "tuscany".

Overall you have nice rooms in picture but they lack a bit of punch. Suggestions: Big plant (left of TV or under clock) and a additional accent colour to go with Navy, or more navy in kitchen?

Get rid of the stacked stone on the back of the island if it’s the last and only thing you do.

We have a similar style kitchen and we have painted beadboard on the back of the island. It looks nice and holds up well to kicking feet.

I might just paint the island stone for now, or leave it for later.

In order to give advice on the backsplash, we'd need to see the counter material close up. I'd guess there's probably a nice neutral, in the gray or taupe or cream family, that would pull out a color from teh counters while offering a bit of contrast from the cabinets. Bring home some samples to see what works.

Think backsplash goes with warm tile floor. The brass hardware may help it all flow. Have you thought of long pulls instead of knobs or combo knobs and pulls. Old holes can be wood puttied. Like idea of putting something above stove to break up granite. Didn’t care for the pics but liked the idea.

I’m shocked to say this, but I don’t hate it. Normally I dislike granite backsplash but yours looks good. I’d do champagne gold pulls and faucet, swap the island stone for beadboard, and call it a day. You have a light, open kitchen and you’ve successfully killed 75% of the Tuscan vibe. Enjoy.

Thank you everyone for your advice. I am really trying to make this pop since I often rent it out and people love newer and vibrant styles. I will digest!

If you rent it out, then you also want to consider what surfaces will withstand that sort of abuse. You might consider a separate thread that asks about that particular issue.