Here is an 'extreme' idea for backsplash.

I like that the new cabinets look so fresh and clean! How about some under cabinet lighting?

All good ideas. I have thought of moving the cabinets up. Right now I do not have the money to spend so painting and detailing the back splashes is the option. I did not realize how low the cabinets were until I got into the house. Its a challenge to find things (ie: coffee pot) to fit under the cabinets. One option I am considering is to get a shorter cabinet over the stove and installing an oven hood/microwave combination to get the microwave off the counter.

One thing that makes your cabinets look lower than they are is the 4" laminate backsplash. If that was removed you'd have a cleaner look. Wall repair would be necessary but it'd be worth it. Cabinets would look 4" higher!

wow! What an interesting idea!

I think leelee is right. Removing the 4" laminate would help visually until you could do a full remodel.

Seems like a good idea to put the microwave over the stove. Why not lose the cabinets over it entirely? Otherwise it seems like a very nice kitchen - clean, not blah!

Lower cabinets are good for elderly, disabled and shorter people.

I think the microwave would get too hot if it was positioned over the stove.

I think your kitchen looks very nice. you could add some color to what is already there by adding a few colorful large bowls on top of the cabinets. I see you have above cabinet LED strip lighting that must make the beam and raised ceiling stand out at night. They would also make your ceramic bowl collection stand out, so you don't want to over do it up there, just enough to add some color and draw the eye upwards. Your back splash area being small as it is, may be able to take those peel and stick tiles in a vibrant color that coordinates with your bowls. I don't usually suggest these, but with your small wall space they might look OK and add that color you desire for now. Whatever contrasting color you pick, you could carry it through into a bold piece of art next to your door. Have fun. The gussying up part of decorating to me is the fun part. You have good bones going on in that kitchen.

You have the most neutral color scheme of all time - black and white. Do you have a favorite color? Go with it! Any color will work in this room.

As you will soon realize, black floors and black counters a a chore to keep clean - they show every spot, speck and sprinkle. Keep that in mind as you plan your major overhaul. That beam was obviously "in charge" of the "update" and made sure he was the center of attention. I'd do all I could to change that when you finally get a "do-over!"

Replace your overhead cabinet doors with glass doors, install cabinet lighting, glass shelving. Black glass splash back behind the cooktop/oven, and mirrored splash back on remainder. Would give it an ambient, classic feel (exciting at night), and character. Good luck.

These are great ideas. Thank you everyone and thank you Houzz.