Hi rlm3292, those are great choices for finishes. You might want more square mosaic tiles instead of long horizontal ones just to keep things more streamline.


I would suggest extending the snack bar around the corner to increase more counter space when you're not using it, and you still have lots of space to move around with the extended bar as well.

Thanks for your ideas David! I'll look at more square backsplash tiles. I was also thinking of dropping the height of the snack bar counter to rest on the base cabinet, adding a backsplash w/ electric outlets for laptops, phones, etc. and extending an approx. 8 inch "ledge" on the half wall facing out into the dining room to serve as a possible buffet? Or possiby reconfiguring the entire snack bar, i.e., removing it and replacing it w/ a more open concept. Your thought?

You might consider removing the facia cabinentry piece between upper cabinets next to sink. Will make window appread larger. Glass tiles would give the backsplash some pizzazz and lighting always makes a room. if possible, conisder some recessed can lights and replacing the hanging fixtures with updated transitional or contemporary ones. I would consider maybe choosing only one hanging fixture if you decide to do cans . Much better work space lighting. Also, snack bar really could be an island and provide convesational seating rather than seats facing the wall. Do this by eliminating half wall into hallway and entend the current snack bar out into the room similar to this island. Patti

You're welcome :) ... I think lowering the snack bar, extending 8 inches ledge and adding the electrical outlets are excellent ideas !!!

It might be more costly to demolish the knee wall since you have an air return duct there.

All great ideas for a media/homework center. You will find that chairs will take up more space than stools, so if you lower the island, there will be less space for whatever # of people you think will sit there.

You may find after the fact that having cabinetry under that island is more aggravation than useful. If you can sacrifice the storage there, consider doing without it.

Definitely remove the fascia in front of the window. Those things date a kitchen.

Pattib57, Thanks for your ideas & great pictures. We are on the same page. Replace fixtures, add recessed lights, remove cabinet facia, and repaint. I'm debating about where to put & how many recessed lights if there is only one hanging fixture in the kitchen? I would really like to remove the half wall facing the current dining area all together but it is beyond my budget. The other half wall on the left abuts the steps to the basement.

David, thanks again. R-