Yes, you need a lawyer ASAP. You needed one to look at the contract in the beginning. I have to think that your issues are being exacerbated by your communication style. You need to take some time and clearly and concisely list exactly what the issues are. (Number that list to assist with clarity.) Then list what should have been done under the contract. Then list what changed needed to happen, and why. This will assist your lawyer and anyone else you wish to communicate your issues with. Right now, no one can make heads or tails of what you are trying to convey.

Yes, I'm allowed to tear it up. I have no idea what's underneath it. I'm really stuck on what type of flooring & color scheme. I did speak with a contractor. He said to avoid having to remove my bottom cabinets, he can lay the floor up to the cabinets. I'm not certain if that will be difficult. I might switch out the black countertops & black backsplash for something lighter in color. Also, plan to replace black appliances with Stainless Steel. I have a decorative ceiling (tin looking tiles) - I will not be switching that. I'm trying to figure out what color flooring would go with this quirky kitchen.

I might look for a lamp that could move forward on the chest enough (without danger of toppling off) that the shade just hides that thermostat. Place it just a couple inches to the right of where it is now, or move the whole chest to the right a bit. It won't affect the functionality, esp if you use an LED bulb = no heat. Then look for a large piece of art, or a couple of stacked pieces to fill in over the right side of the chest, as shown above. Another idea is a gallery wall incorporating the thermostat: I would trade you those beautiful folded blankets for the star wars lego decor my grandson has decorated my house with! eta: I was just looking at it again and think Cyn's idea to switch the cabinets would work. You could then place the floor lamp in front of the thermostat and just ignore it.

I would leave the grey on the dormer, it references the same grey on the back of your house and you can see both sides at the same time. Because you've added white trim everywhere, I would paint both the bump-out and the front door alcove white. The alcove looks dark and with the addition of a black door, it will be even darker. White paint will brighten that area and will tie your whole house together.