I'd suggest that the first thing on the agenda would be to come up with an actual design. If there are going to be big changes, you might want to think about a kitchen design specialist. Once you have your design, decide on a budget. That will tell you roughly whether you're looking at granite countertops, caeserstone, corian or laminate. Same with cabinetry: everything is a function of price. By all means, have a good look around kitchen places to see what sorts of surfaces are available, and what appeals to you. And don't forget appliances. Ultimately, though, most of us are constrained by budget.

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Thanks Fiona. I just wish people would realise you don't need to spend much to make things look good. Everything in my house is either a Garage sale or Vinnies find. I then do it up. I have done so all my life, as I grew up in a poor family with 8 siblings. I must say it erks my hubby but he's gotten use to it. People do walk in my home and always give me great feedbacks and compliments. I have just finished this room below. All this is in SAME room. I just want to show how you can make things look good without expense. The Chaise lounge cost me $80! I did have to add more foam which I collected from someone throwing couch on side if the rd, to the seating & fix the leg. The Floor rug $70 from the Reject shop. The Dresser I painted white was $350. It looks amazing. The wall behind this dresser, I painted with Dulux Pearl STRIPES, it's a suttle feature, but looks amazing. The chandelier $25, I sprayed it Latte and stuck candles on it as I have led lights in ceiling. The long book cupboard was stained brown & again I painted and the chairs on either side cost $25ea and I had the cushions recovered for $40ea. My favourite is the Leather Chair. I did have it covered prof., That did cost a penny, but it was worth it. Believe me I hate spending large amounts, when you can get a better solid piece than the crap that's around. You can see in the background my Dining setting with 8 chairs. That was $350. I just sanded the top of the table and clear varnished it! I can go on & on. As I have so many things I have brought to life. But just want to make it clear to all out there, that you can achieve your décor without spending heaps. Oh I must add, my Brown Italian Leather sofa ABOVE I purchased from ebay including a lge poof, again $350.The white coffee table above was also Brown stained. I purchased for $40. I striped it. Painted bottom white, then just left a clear stain on top as once I sanded it, I found the wood was so beautiful, that I couldn't paint it. The 2 single sofas above, were purchased from Vinnies for $65ea. I didn't have to do anything to them. This is not everyone's taste, but you can buy to suit your own décor. I would love to write a book on everything I have ever changed, just to prove it can be done. So people on a tight budget.......... You can achieve it. Hope this inspires a lot of you guys. cheers

Love the effort you're going to. But I'd have the entire island inc step down in the one colour, and the cupboard bench and splash back in the second colour. Remember once you add accessories and more importantly yourself the area will have plenty of movement and variety.