We removed a wall, as you can see and have a temp bar table where the wall was. we are going to put an island in that place with bar stools. the island in the middle of the room is movable and we are planning on leaving it there. We live in Billings, MT. I am trying to figure out colors to paint. I thought the wall under the counter, soffet and large wall on the right a brick red. you said no to red, why?? And the livingroom a gray. we are removing the carpet and putting in hardwood. I want the floor to be all the same throughout. my husbands thinks we can put a row of 12X12 tile between the floors and out new dark wood in the livingroom.Any suggestions on the floor?? We will be putting in recessed lights in the kitchen area an around the outside edge in the livingroom. As u can tell I need all the help and tips I can get... Thanks so much... Kathy

I'd say yes to painting the kitchen and living room a lighter shade of grey to start. From there, I wouldn't say no to the idea of brick red paint for the cabinets, but I'd limit it to the wall cabinets. I'd paint the base cabinets a dark grey.

You should have the cabinetry done by a professional though; here is a bit on cabinet refacing that could be helpful- http://www.granitetransformations.com/southjersey/cabinet-refacing-page/

I'd install white granite counters and a white subway tile backsplash. We have a good selection there as well.

The recessed lighting (cans) is definitely the way to go. They provide great lighting. Your electrician should be competent in this area, but I'd recommend 5-6 for the kitchen. Typically they'll install a switch for managing the lighting level as well.

Good luck!

The brick red paint would be on the wall between the cabinets. . We r not doing anything to the cabinets. What do u think about the flooring.???

I don't mind the idea of an accent wall for your space. I would however reconsider the wall and color. I would pick the opposite wall for the feature wall. Judging by the pics, it looks as though the wall connects the dining area with the living area. Using this wall will help unite the spaces and create some balance with the heaviness of the cabinetry on the other side. I would also change out the pale yellow. It is too similar to the flooring and cabinets imo. I would take a look at BM Whitestone for the three walls and Dill Weed for the accent. They both look great with the blue in the adjoining space, your floor and cabs, and your dark brown leather furniture.