Hi, I would steer away from white. I am in similar situation like you and am an interior designer. There are lots of options but the one I'm more inclining to (in your case) is light grey like Farrow & Ball Pavilion Gray for example. It's pale but has a hint of grey tone in it which would create a really nice contrast between the warmth of the cherry wood. Also if you are using the top a lot, I'm using mine all the time, have you perhaps considered having a glass top? My top got really badly damaged by a oven cleaner gel when I put the tray on it and the whole surface just peeled off. In my case I want to protect it with glass. Just a thought... If you need a more detailed direction, I give lots of free advice on social media and my blog. Or you can just contact me with more info about your dilemma. Karolina

Hi, In this case you would need to create open plan kitchen together with dining room. Get rid of the wall in between and create cosy, open a space area. Range cooker would be nice, but not next to the door. You are going to loose working place, plus open fire next to entrance is not an option. If you are planing to "redecorate" your kitchen only, you can simply get new doors for base units, new wall units & new extractor would be nice too. Maybe something industrial looking? Accessories, plants, new tiles would make the kitchen looking alive till the time you will decide to get a new kitchen. Where are so many shaker style doors! So many colours and finishes it's mad! So if you would like to improve your kitchen with minimal investment, get creative! Small bits and peaces will make it look like kitchen where you would like to spend your time. Which is the most important.

Hi, do you have photos of the space? Is it a light or a dark room? I would personally choose a white or light grey quartz or something like Silestone. Maybe a marble vein in it, like Calacatta Gold. You need to get some samples to see the colours in situ. But if it is a very light filled room, you could also go for a darker granite or quartz.

That was the question, would anyone buy pre-cut granite is it worth the effort? The issue is taking out a kitchen is a messy business and propably more difficult if you are trying not to damage anything including me and my small flat! I have no idea at present what this size counter top would cost new or second hand so just posing the questions!