Removing the soffits and a few feet of wall did the trick

When we removed the soffits (see before pic) in the kitchen and raised the ceiling a few inches, we installed handsome new cabinetry all the way to the ceiling. Removing several feet of wall and moving the refrigerator enabled us to extend the counter and create a peninsula, with all the added storage below. New stainless appliances and fun pineapple pendants give the kitchen a high-end look and a lot of personality.