I feel your pain, my total loss house fire was a year ago and not even a rough inspection yet. Have also experienced weeks with no workers. I can't even find the words to describe how I am feeling. Am not a decorator - but want to try to help you. Some ideas: 1. Have you considered putting some glass (maybe semi-opaque/fog instead of clear), maybe with interior lighting, in some cabinets to lighten them up? 2. Can you paint/change one or more cabinets to a lighter color? Mixing cabinet colors seems to be very instyle. 3. Can you change the backsplash? That may be the easiest option to lighten things up. 4. If you have not already, spend time on Houzz looking at kitchen pictures for ideas. 5. Browse kitchen showrooms to find a style you like. Then hire their KD for a consultation. 6. The attached pic from Houzz has dark cabinets & countertops and medium floors and is one of my favorite kitchens. I don't think you have to go with a light floor, that you won't like. I wish that I could help you more. Good Luck.

Private message me your address and I'll send you some. I haven't had a chance to cut them yet (sick grand baby). I'm going to cut them tonight or in the morning and ship tomorrow because with my work schedule I won't have another chance until next Thursday. If you'd like to send me something pretty much anything hardy to zone 7 would be fine. I know you are trying to restart after a fire so if you don't have anything that is fine too. I'll still be more than happy to send you whatever I can.

Love the look, and all your elements really hang together. I love how the space is left open around the range and the while thing is uncluttered. Your tile is gorgeous. I agree not to worry about the kitchen looking "dated." All kitchens date! Your look works for the space and is consistent. And you like it. So it is perfect.

You have the right to select any material you want, but the insurance company will only pay up to the value to replace the material you had. Their obligation is to replace and repair what was damaged so the difference in cost for upgrades will become your responsibility Talk to your insurance adjuster and then the contractor how to address this issue. Usually there will be a recoverable and non-recoverable costs, and the difference between the cost of replacing the vinyl with lets say hardie board would be non-recoverable. It's not a hard thing to do to upgrade but don't assume the insurance will pay for it as a right.