(better photo to come...) Here is the "after" photo. We got rid of the fussy faux columns and grounded the space with the black glazed cabinets. We retiled the backsplash in upgraded real travertine that still matched the adjacent spaces. Counters were replaced with granite and pendants and comfortable leather stools were added. The awkwardly shaped center island had to remain because of a flooring issue but we replaced the open shelving with practical storage and made it less of a focal point.