Mary I really love the way you think!

Connie,
Fabulous kitchen space!? You're going to love it, once you do your magic.? You've got good neutrals on the floor, counter top and appliances.? I like the black appliances.? Here are some ideas.
1.? I'd paint those cabinets and buy ultra modern hardware.? Try not to get pulls that have little bars that extend outward from the pull (I've always hated them b/c they catch my pockets as I work!).? Here's a post about how to coordinate with black appliances.? Once you get them painted, the arched bevel will look fine.? I'm into lighter colors, but there are plenty of great examples of darker treatments for a dramatic modern effect. Love the look of dark, but I cook a lot and need a happy, light space.? Might want to consider painting the island an accent color.
2.? Lots of down lighting cans wired into zones, each with their own dimmer switches.
3.? Under cabinet lighting.
4.? Whatever paint on the drywall above the cabinets, paint the ceiling with 20% of that color mixed with your white ceiling paint so it's lightly tinted.
5.? A great ceiling fan or focal point lighting fixture.? This one comes in many finishes.

OR
6.? A Fab light fixture that adds interest and movement:


Don't think I like the clear bulbs on this one, but I do like the swirls and the dark color that marries nicely with the appliances:?

Kitchens offer so many possibilities.? It's one of those places in the home (along with a guest powder room) where you can launch into something more modern and fun, even if the rest of the house trends traditional.
Slap some paint on it and it will look great!

Michael is looking at houses with most of the bedrooms, etc. on one floor.? One is being built near Raleigh's newest shopping area within a mile of our current home, so we are looking.? I'm not sure about moving even closer to a high rise area.? Our neighborhood is already close, but nestled in a tiny wooded pocket.? So many decisions!
Excited for you,
Mary.