Thank you all for your feedback! I am going to try some ideas for the area to the right of the sink and see what works. With regard to the island, we are planning to add some trim detail and paint it. However, I'm not sure what color to paint it yet. Additionally, I was worried the kitchen might start to look chopped up if we paint the island a lighter color - considering we have two other large runs of cabinetry in the dark cherry/mahogany stain. (double oven wall / coffee bar area plus the wine/ China / hutch area). Any thoughts on painting the island a lighter color?

Need pics

Wallpaper Shiplap Wainscoting Built ins Art Console with mirror Options are endless I’d go for wallpaper 💖

The current room has no color and I think adding the blue you love in art, area rugs, upholstered furnishings and décor items can bring this room to life. The wall with the hutch feels a bit crowded to me. I would probably move the plant either to the window side of the wall or move it into the living room. Move the tall hutch closer to where the plant is now. I would remove the painting and mirror and get a new piece of art for over the sideboard. Art is very personal, so I tend not to advise people on what they should get, but I would like to see something with a bit more life than the two paintings you have. I always loved going to the Wyland gallary and looking through the seascapes from him and the other artists he chose to exhibit. ( James Coleman, William DeShazo, Walfrido Garcia, Scott Hanson, Guy Harvey, Dan Mackin, Michael Maiden, Noelito , John Pitre, Steven Power, Kim Taylor Reece, Tracy Taylor, Jim Warren ) And then I would do coordinated area carpets (not matching) with blues and runners. Get a lighter colored sofa and two upholstered chairs. Maybe a patterned rug in one of the two rooms and a more solid in the other. You may prefer softer blues A few pieces of blue decor (Vases, planters, throw pillows and you will have a stunning space.