A backslash? This could certainly give it more pop.

Hmmm…a backsplash might be needed! I like those hanging pendants!

if you don't want to put in a backspash you could paint the backsplash area in a nice color that would contrast to what you have and make it pop! good luck and for the record I think the kitchen looks beautiful :)

Get your wallet open: new dinette set, window treatments in dining area, and new light fixtures. All will update your lovely new kitchen. I know, where does the spending stop...

An actal vent hood could give you an attractive focal point and keep all of those new surfaces from getting greasy and dirty so quickly.

the dining and pendant lights need to be changed, they need to be your jewelry to the
remodel!! otherwise it will be a bit dated looking. you could try re painting the pendants silver, they are still a current style.

you could use a rail and add some interest as well as a third small pendant, i might even try a satin nickle dining fixture to break up all the dark

@Sophie - there is a vent that rises magically from in back of the cooktop! So, we don't need a hood! The sink is copper and the faucet rubbed bronze. We were thinking of a deep red for an accent color….maybe some fun art on the wall between the top of the granite and the cabinets. @Flair - what do you mean a rail? I love seeing how the pendant lights look! The lights are beautiful that you posted!! Thanks for posting that! We are going to do a tray ceiling with cam lights this summer. It will be centered over the island. The ceiling will match the one in the breakfast area. @ MC - this was a remodel on a budget with my hubby doing a LOT of the work! Still…..whew!!! We need to wind down the cash flowing OUT! (but we also want to say "WOW! It was worth it!!")

I think you did just fine. Pendant lights will make a huge difference. Pick fixtures that make a statement

well in that case i would wait for that change, put two pendants over this island and put two can lights in place of the pendants over the bar area. that way the chandelier over the table will be the focal point.

I'm well aware of popups. But, you can't beat the lighting source, the statement, and the actual ventilation provided by an overhead vent.