Hi again, In the washroom, if you flip the locations of the toilet and shower, is there enough room for a larger shower with its long side backing onto the kitchen and the short side where the toilet tank is now? I just feel like everything is smashed against one wall in the washroom. Your plumbing layout wouldn't have to change as you have water supply and drain for both toilet and and shower with the current layout. I know you've said the layout cant change, but I'm not clear what is in the way of the bedroom walls. The smaller bedroom is quite small. You'll have trouble getting much more than a double size bed in that room. Is it possible to move the wall between the smaller bedroom and the closets over closer to the other wall? That could maybe give you a 10 X 10 bedroom and smaller closets. It would give you just a bit more room to have a bed and dresser or maybe a chair or small desk in a bedroom, since the rest of the space is open concept. In any case, I think you are in good shape with your plans and I think making it bright and clean looking should be your priority. Inviting and comfortable but easy to maintain finishes. I'd get a nice comfy couch (If you decide to put in a pull out/sleeper type couch which many rentals have) then make sure it is really comfortable to sit on. Some are so hard due to the fold out mechanism.

The OP stated, they are a new homeowner and are looking for paint color to update on the cheap. So telling her everything has to go does not help. I like the gray color suggested by Live Wire Oak. That color really updates the space and looks modern. To be honest, IMHO, the counter and backsplash are neutral and blend nicely. I do not find your kitchen offensive, at all. The cabinets are darker walnut color which I like, and not an orange color. The cabinets, counter and backsplash appear to be in good shape. So paint the walls and buy some accessories on the cheap (check out houzz photos for accesory ideas), and enjoy your updated kitchen for many years. I agree a cheap option is to replace the cabinet handles and knobs with something more sleek and modern. My preference is satin chrome color.

We placed the stove there as previously we found that we didn’t have enough countertop space between the stove and sink. We cook most of the meals at home and it usually requires lots of ingredients. Strangely enough, we don’t use a lot of spices so the current cupboard is more than enough. Hence, I don’t feel that another spice rack is needed. However, I like the suggestion of a narrow rack but for someting else. Any ideas what else for? We like minimalistic decor as it,s easier to clean and maintain (OCD) and it’s easier on the eyes. that’s why we didn’t go with full size wall cabinets. Now, ILovMod, where do you think we should put the rack- in the corner or next to the hood? Same question about the wallpaper.

I'd actually close up the kitchen....close off the dining room and use it as a home office/spare guest room/bonus space in general....fabulous resale w all the changes in work/living.... The corner of living room near the foyer is where I'd place a pedestal table...remove the door to the kitchen. If you use both 16 foot walls in kitchen ....a section can have open counter w a couple stools.