Jterrilynn - The chairs that you posted are kinda cute...if only they didn't have spindles in the back, I'd almost say perfect....(spindles are just too country for me)...I agree that they need to have a low back and that is exactly why I am having such a hard time finding any. I have been keeping an eye out on criagslist as well as local thrift stores on the rare occasions that I have time but there seems to be nothing but old country kitchen type chairs...nothing that would work for me. If only I could be so lucky. Clairbouyant - Yes, I did consider a banquette but just don't have the time to build anything right now and I stink at sewing so thats out too. I've been dealing with some computer problems lately so needless to say...I still haven't found what I'm looking for just yet but will definatley post back when I do....in the meantime....I'm still hoping to log in one day to the perfect chair! Someone suggested that I look for restaurant chairs because they are usually smaller....just wish I knew a good source. Ever search I try just ends up showing the same expensive chairs I've already been finding. Ugh....so frustrating.

Yes, as soon as I saw the word shaker I thought "oh oh". That may not give you the look that you want. However, slab doors on top would help and something I have wondered about is whether or not the width of the rails/stiles would define transitional vs contemporary look. You may not have a choice of course but I seem to remember reading that wider rail/stile is more contemporary. However, that may have just been someones opinion. Can you do a waterfall installation of the granite - that for me reads more modern/contemporary as well. : link showing examples And yes, hardware, lighting and barstools can really pull the look into contemporary.

Hi Jamie, hope the search is going well. Just a couple of considerations when selecting your fixtures- remember that the direction and quality of light is very important for functionality and atmosphere. It is important to try to get some light on the cabinetry to expand the sense of space and create openness. If your husband does not want to see the exposed lamps you could also consider some diffused lighting fixtures. In this case you are depending on some directional recessed down-lights to sufficiently illuminate your work surface- so the diffused light creates a glow and warm atmosphere without creating a shadow cast elsewhere. One other consideration should be the colour temperature of the lamps (bulbs) themselves- stick with LED 2700K colour temperature whenever possible as this will give you balanced and consistent light quality with the rest of your home and will harmonize with natural daylight colour temperatures especially in the afternoon and evening. The following are some examples where we used multiple layers of light to ensure a consistent shadow free lighting plan- Recessed down-lights in concert with Pendant Lights, under cabinet lights, valence lights and 'In Cabinet' lights- hope this helps contextualize your lighting plans...

I agree with the vent hood and lighting changes. A glass pendant in green or aqua lighting could look good. As far as seating, I always liked the Tig Countertop seats from Crate & Barrel when I had them in my last home. They are contemporary and sleek. And far more comfortable than they looks. But they wouldn't go with the french look of your dining area. I assume you plan to change out those chairs as well? If you like coastal looks, sea grass or a light natural/driftwood color is a good option too. If you are looking for light and bright I think you would need to paint the island. I would also get lighter drawer/cabinet pulls. https://www.crateandbarrel.com/tig-metal-counter-stool/s642141 https://www.ballarddesigns.com/jo-jo-pendant/lighting/indoor-lighting/pendants/444240?listIndex=5 https://www.overstock.com/Lighting-Ceiling-Fans/Belinda-Blue-Glass-Cluster-Pendant-Chandelier-Antique-Black-Finish/16001564/product.html