U-shaped kitchen in the house we bought had corner drawers in one corner and a blind (useless) corner on the other side. We got rid of both corners. The kitchen is now a straight line and an island, open at both ends, with a third bench with drawers under along the window wall. No corners, and no obstacles to block traffic between the kitchen, butler's pantry and the veranda where we eat most of our meals. Much more practical. I hated being trapped in the U-shaped kitchen and having to walk in big circles around the bench to get out to the dining areas.

Depending upon your budgtet - you could go for pewter - it develops/has a patina that darkens (though if you get it unsealed your up for polishing). or custom made wrought iron handles with softer finish - perhaps look at http://www.uniquewroughtiron.com.au/wroughtiron.html who have a number of finishes.

thanks for your information which complies with our recent experience ..our mid range kitchen was just over $40,000 with custom designed cabinets to suit specific personel needs, mid range appliances and basic laminates...stone benches for my kitchen would have added an extra $7000 but i chose the custom sized cabinets and extra shelves in all cabinets...: so much detail to consider

Go with your gut Tracy..... it is a big investment but I have found that if it makes you smile every time you walk into your kitchen you'll never regret it!!!! I've recently moved into a smaller downsized home with my 3rd black kitchen, with drawers, no cupboards, except for the pantry which we use as the crockery and wine glasses stash. Mine is matt but no handles = no hip bangers! I chose to use snow white stone bench tops, the walls are painted natural white while the floors are pale oak hybrid vinyl.