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.

I also think matte black handles will work well. They are simple and elegant and won't reflect light as the S/S ones do. If and when you add a pendant light (down the track), I think your focus on the handles will diminish. It's possible a suspended ceiling will complicate the look of your kitchen. What is the height of your ceilings? And a suspended ceiling would lower the height to what? Painting the ceiling sounds like an alternative and would certainly add interest. Your kitchen IS beautiful as is. Pls keep us posted!

Great job Deanne. You know working on a budget gets you creative. I think everyone needs the experience for appreciation sake............. enjoy your space and be proud of the simple fact you have your own home and it looks fab. It's a great achievement.