I dont think its sterile but the gray splash is keeping it moody/dark. Re hardware.... the alignment means you probably have to stick with that [its not common]..so just look for a skinny one that doesnt call attention to itself. you could probably leave the hardware unless you find something you like that seems different for the sake of a change. Pendants? whether mixed metals or something you find in the catalogues... that can be a good spot for visuals..... then just let the perimeter recede.

pendants..mixed metals to add interest ... good above your island. what other general ceiling lighting do you have?

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w the tone of cabinets...wherever you want tile go as light or near white as you can without totally stark white [that can make the wood look more severe.] .... i think you have some creamy white in your counter to work with

light tile , along w adjacent surfaces kept light will help with w grayish stained cabinetry.

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you have a really nice kitchen! If it were me, I’d want different pendants without the clear glass/glare (I like BTC originals out of the UK, they make bone china pendants and the light is terrific through the ceramics) -

I’d also add some purposeful texture to warm up all the slick surfaces - like wood, maybe a french bread board in the right spot? A really pretty small fern on the island?

Thank you for your comments. Funny, before I took the photos I removed a cutting board, a small print and a plant!
I agree, the pendants feeling too harsh. We have can lights throughout the area. I’m really a visual person and would be curious to see what someone who’s proficient with AI could come up with.

It’s hard to know what to suggest when we don’t know your style or the style of the home - I’d start looking at pendants and seeing what you like - are there counter stools in the space?