The placement of the sconces in the last photo looks great and they are really pretty! Also, no one cares if Patricia hates sconces. First to comment and most often with a negative response. At least she’s predictable lol.

don't add any hardware. those cabs are MDF and melamine. either live with it like that, or save up and replace them.

if you look up "how to paint 1980's melamine/wood kitchen cabs", you see lots of how to's.

but for all of that work, maybe just replace the cabinets? or even reface the doors/drawers?

Aren't those cabinets 40 years old? I had them in a rental where I lived in the late '80's and I don't think they were new then. They have lived a long and productive life. I realize it's expensive to replace them, but it doesn't make any sense to put a new, expensive countertop on them. Even if you paint them you can't put pulls on them because the wood edges are the pulls. Refacing can cost as much as new because the doors are the most expensive part of cabinets. Don't waste your money on halfway measures unless you really can't see ever being able to replace them. If so, look at Formica for the tops.

How can white go "out?" 1.) It's a neutral. 2.) It looks clean and people love clean kitchens. 3.) It's a traditional classic. 4.) It goes with everything.

Believe your contractor! He knows what he's talking about.

- Shower floor tiles need to be small so they can slope toward the drain.

- Small floor tiles are more "grippy" to the foot, so you're less likely to fall.

Surely that tile is available in a smaller version?

With that corner fireplace a built in will always look awkward. I would get a nice wood credenza and mount the tv over it.

Yes, the black screen is the big culprit, as is the carved wood hanging over it.

Simplify is maybe the word you want. Do you use the fireplace? If not, you don't need any screening. If you do, then something very simple. The photos that Boxerpal posted are great examples of traditional architecture with modern furniture.

I think it’s pretty and unique! Try removing everything and adding nice art over it see if that helps.