I think everyone is basically on the same page here. Basically, this is a good kitchen which needs nothing done to it, unless you're going to live there and it's currently not to your taste. Yes, you can lighten it up by changing the splashback - it is rather brown (and I'm not a fan of brown) - but it is a perfectly 'servicable' kitchen. If you're selling then talk to a professional designer for ideas or go to tile, decorator store - or check out current magazines, and change a few things from there. If you're selling or renting, it won't make any difference to the price. If you're going to live there, then do that - like others have said, live with it for a while until you decide what you want. I think a glass splashback in another colour would go over whatever you already have there, but the countertops look like they are ceasarstone and they are fine - and a good colour. The sinks are also fine - wish I'd chosen them instead of a double sink - it takes up a lot more space but does the same job. I can't see too much that needs changing here, so it's just about what you 'want' and noone else can tell you that. All the best with what you decide.

I wasn't entirely sure I understood what an authentic industrial style was. It's interesting to know it has particular elements but is not limited only by those same elements, but can embrace other elements or styles. Educational article-thanks!

rome_agile, have you decided whether to put small round table & chairs under stairs, or bar stools at bench? I'm thinking you might be more comfortable for extended dinners sitting at a table and chairs, plus you can always tuck up an extra stool or two if you are entertaining. There isn't much room at bench and people wouldn't really be facing each other. Stools are fine for quick and casual, if you have space. Maybe backless ones that tuck under the overhang a bit. Have you seen a Tulip table and the clear Louis Ghost Chairs? The Ghost chairs would allow light through so you don't lose the view outdoors and that space wouldnt fee crowded.

Hi Mel, Kitchens are an integral part of any home and particularly a busy family, so much to consider. I personally think an Island clear of any sinks or utilities makes for a more workable space. It lends itself to food prep, kids homework, meals, guests perched on a bench whilst you prep. Sinks always accumulate mess so I think a sink put to the side works better. Gone are the days where you will stand at a sink hours at a time. Think about how you like to cook and use a kitchen a cooktop not far from the sink works best think straining pasta pots, vegies etc.. As for butler's pantry's I'm not a fan, why spend money on a lovely kitchen only to be cooped up in a small kitchen off to the side, very unsociable. Houses are made to be lived in and sometimes that comes with a little mess particularly in the kitchen. Don't hide away in a butlers pantry embrace your home and kitchen and all that it entails. I recently completed a kitchen with a similar colour scheme to what you are suggesting black, white and timber, I anchored the kitchen with the black Island and used white cabinets for the rest of the kitchen. Matt surfaces are on trend at the moment as opposed to gloss or semi gloss, matt finishes hide finger prints and children's hand marks better, dust will show up on darker surfaces so be mindful of this. I adore natural materials and feel that a timber floor really adds warmth. Take a look at the kitchen I recently designed for my clients, would love to hear your thoughts. Happy to assist you any way - Good luck with your renos. Thanks Collaborative Interiors