Other than valances, and too many shelves of different kind that are there to cover the storage issue I believe-I don't see anything bad about the kitchen. The wood is actually back, the tiles are fun. I'd leave the corbel shelf, and one of a free standing pieces (I'd be inclined to leave a narrow one..looks more different thus more intentional:) also can be reused as a bookcase or whatever, if renters don't like in the kitchen). BTW-different color/a tad different style hutches in kitchens gain big popularity recently. If you're worried about what's dated.. Bottom line-if you really want to tackle storage-take both shelves out, put in over the counter cabs in different color, similar style..done. Switch the knobs for bigger ones -can make a very pleasing difference. Not that the ones you have are bad. It looks like a nice house, I wouldn't overhaul things too much. As for color scheme-as long as you keep colors related(same degree of mutedness/brightness for example) it'll be harmonious and work. Give the renters the possibility to repaint if they wish-and repaint back when they're out. I'd personally leave the windows between rooms-unless they interfere with functionality a lot. You'll know better as you know the space. These are good windows:) They don't make anything like these for cheap no more:) People with kids and pets will be overjoyed to rent this place. I know I'd be. Don't worry too much about newest high end finishes that often only look high end, and condos that are cool(I spent most of my life in apartments, condos and townhouses) but are different kind of living arrangements, with pros and cons of their own. I was a renter for many years, and nothing would scare me off your place. Except for yard maintenance and only if very complicated. Laminate is better for pets, or so I heard. (I've a friend that owns three big dogs. And two cats. And lots of smaller pets. and two pythons)) In short she knows what she talks about)) But of course if you want continious flooring makes sense to pull it out still. If you're ok with pets-already brings you many people in. If you're cheaper than other places-multiply your appeal. Bottom line-your kitchen, in terms of colors and all, is moving very fast into a direction of current. Maybe not everybody figured it out yet-but they who're really into what's going on-they know..:) Streamline storage a bit, get rid of several things, you'll be just fine. Your renters will be too.

I am now in a dilemna as I am having our vacation home painted and they only use Sherwin Williams. Not sure whether to go white on white or just do the Agreeable Gray (which I think may be a little darker than the shady. THOUGHTS?

As a design professional I would suggest darkening the trim with a more sophisticated neutral - like a charcoal - would make the house look more sophisticated. I love the idea of making the existing posts larger and the idea of adding charcoal planter between the posts is good. Charcoal garage door. And the Entry door being a almost black. It deepens the color scheme and brings the eye to a more subtle presentation of the blue. I do not mind the blue at all. But I am envisioning the charcoal with it. Good luck to you!

I painted a small square of the Hardi-Plank on my balcony with a fresh coat of B.M. Eclipse. The balcony had been painted 8 years ago with a Dunn Edwards paint that was supposedly tinted to match to the B.M. Eclipse color. The fresh coat of paint is on the left. Not an exact match. The fresh paint looks more blue, less grey. I do not know if this can be attributed entirely to fading from the sunlight. The new siding that will be installed will be separated by white trim pieces from the siding on the front of the house, so color differences will not be as obvious as in this photo. If I try to match to existing, it will take me more toward light gray. I'm waiting to hear back from the siding /painting contractor on whether there is an increased cost for choosing B.M. over DE.