I think it can be stunning! I agree with cabinets to the ceiling except use cdrown molding for the English look you desire. By all means good lighting however to achieve the look do not use harsh lighting. Have dimmers and have a smallish lamp on one of your countertops for ambient lighting. I do suggest Carrera marble if you go grey or hammered stainless (to resemble pewter) if you go dark blue for your countertops and pl;ease consider hanging some antique mirror. I have a wonderful photo of a tiny deep blue kitchen and cannot seem to lay my hands on it. If I find it soon I will post it for you. I hope you will go for it and post photos! Hope this helps. :)

Hello trifides, What about chrome? Good at reflecting light.. A dual fuel Smeg range for example... A Dualit chrome toaster.. Architect kettle also Dualit.. Shiny elements will really pick up the light.. With the cabinets and the flooring, consider textures and warm elements to boost the look.. I think chrome is a good addition.. as both red and orange might clash with the flooring and cabinets in the colour and finish you have.. Think of other textures and materials you can introduce ...Chopping boards are lovely stacked and marble is another lovely material to use.. Pestle and mortar and a cheese board (I use mine for toast etc.... (Anthropologie and Habitat.. Maybe you want a cream Smeg retro style fridge.... You could then have some cream tiles or a creamy coloured granite for a splash back.. Then maybe a cream Aga... If you were replacing the worktop.. I'd suggest having an upstand as I love this sleek finish.. You can add the same material behind the oven to compliment.. Keep the worktop as clear as possible and a potted rosemary or two could be lovely... Of course the other thing I could suggest is painting the cabinets should you want to consider that as an option for you.. : ))

Attached are drawings and an image of our new kitchen - I am struggling with best place for sink - our hob is on the back wall rather than the island - so currently island is just seating and storage. Also will include some colours I was thinking of using for cabinets - we are thinking island the darker colour with wall cabinets the brighter colour. All advice or thoughts welcome!

image attached