I also don't think you'd need to change the slate in the entry. Does it have a color you can work off of and love for the kitchen? If you don't think light painted cabinets will suit your taste or lifestyle, then don't use them, or use them sparingly and do the rest in a wood. There are so many colors and species of wood to choose from. ...Or one of my favorite kitchens is one of Crown Point's 'Early American' kitchens done in black painted cabinets with a combo of wood and grayish granite counters...So light colors are not your only option with paint. I've seen 'Colonial' done in reds, greens, and gray blues. What other colors are going on in your house (on architectural elements as well as your other furnishing and decor)? What other color of wood? Is all the trim painted or wood? I think that besides continuity of style it is good to have continuity of the architectural detail colors, like on wood trim. Keeping it simple is good advice, since that always seem to better stand the test of time and fit into more types of styles and decor. If the builder wasn't fanatical about doing authentic colonial details, which would give you cues from which to work, I wouldn't worry enough about the integrity of the 1970s version as to limit all of your material options, like granite color. You just want to avoid styles that will jump out as being different from the rest of the home...as if you've stepped into a different house. But you should have the flexibility to allow your own personal preferences and style to shine through. Here is a link that might be useful: crown-point black kitchen

Elizabeth, the floors have to go as they look better in photos. In person they scream cheap. It is cheap laminate. I will also have bare spots where the wall will be removed that I have to fix up. I was planning on putting some tile in the kitchen area but may just do hardwood throughout the whole house. I have also heard that the ikea cabinets hold up rather well but it seems that they use quite a bit of MDF with a foil over it. I personally would prefer a wood face as that sees quite a bit of abuse and potential liquid spills (I am just at the beginning with a 3 year old and 1.5 year old).

No expert here, but the layout is confusing to me. What are all those dark, shaded blocks--new walls? It seems to me the traffic flow through your original kitchen would be better, but without knowing what you are trying to achieve here, it's hard to say. I'm right handed and appreciate having my dishwasher to the right, but plenty of right-handed people will tell you that having it on the left isn't a problem at all.

You’ve made charming choices! The island lighting is perfect. One of my favorite moments is the curve of ther counter stools repeated on the mat for the dog bowl. You must be thrilled with the outcome. I’m looking forward to seeing the custom cabinet doors and a light without glare over the sink. Nice!! I always like to see the before and after right next to each other.