Lighting - pendants over the servery bench should be another feature that complements your chosen kitchen surfaces. So whilst I love the copper pendants in picture 1.. They could work depending on the rest of your decor and would be a highlight in a neutral white/timber kitchen = Good! If you choose copper you would complement it with a couple of copper bench top items. These are beautiful! (I collect copper because I love it, my kitchen pendants are silver, I renovated to sell in the next 3-5 years) You will see a picture starting to form in your mind and there is nothing wrong with making a statement with your lighting. I found that when I wasn't sure I would get a very strong sense of what was right and what was wrong for a space, then common sense or passion would determine the outcome! Here are another couple that might work, look her on Houzz under lighting, search pendants, then have fun looking!Timber tones with black or white to complement your cabinets... or Statement white pendants for a bit of quirky fun! Your personality can be reflected in your lighting and accessories creating that point of difference from the predictable white on timber look. Plus don't forget the power of greenery to punctuate the theme!

The timber island coming off the kitchen bench!

Hi Lucy, So worth doing this research at the planning stage, well done. Check out our Ideas for practical kitchens including the 5 task zones here : https://www.blum.com/nz/en/ideas/overview/ If you would like a free copy of our Kitchen Inspirations Magazine please private message your address/phone to Blum New Zealand. All the best for your project, Blum NZ Team

The type that look like a block of marble ? No stools...? Maybe have the block one end and seating at other end? The end you see as you walk in...no stools there. Just a clean box I'll find a picture