@magspag Thanx for the advice. We wanted to save some cost by not replacing the floor tiles, as well as save by retaining the upper cabinet in its current grey shade. Guess we will go for all-black for the cabinets: both below and above the counter; and put in a new counter-top that contrasts--maybe, a light coloured granite or slate. Examples for this color-scheme are in the ideabook

I really do think you need someone in your locale and on site to give you the best estimate

Seems weird not to incorporate it into the design -- I'm all about having things "look intentional" rather than working around them later. Like could the island have connected to this, rather than extending past it? or been L-shaped, so there's room for an extra stool, and also a wall cabinet? Anyway, hard to discuss that in the abstract without kitchen plans. I'm with miacometlady's original advice to not worry about it right now, and decide how to deal with it once the bulk of your kitchen is in place. You might find that you hardly notice it, with all the beautiful new finishes, or it might seem obvious to put some stainless or glass shelves there, or maybe simple is best and one simple hanging picture does the job. Don't stress about it until After. :)

Hire an architect to help you or find a contractor who has a design build service and who is very experienced with your type of project..... It's not a good idea on a project this large to use a chain store .... Also, make sure that whoever you hire works with your budget.