SFGate

timandt Black granite would be a nice contrast. Not more white. Too much white with cabinets being white. In my opinion.

Yarbro Home Improvement LLC Before making any counter top choices, have you considered back splash? Type similar to what currently exists, or something full height? If you go with black, with a full height black back splash, it might be too much, but, that is a look I personally prefer with light color cabinets

Marcy Claire I would go with a nice black solid surface (or granite) countertop...leave the cabinets the way they are, and paint the walls either maybe taupe, coffee or mocha! Take down the wreath, get a more modern clock (maybe black with aluminum numbers) and put a few bigger baskets up top (it can take the height) also more updated canisters.....

Kj Gemmill I love black/blackish granites with white cabinets and I know there are many different black finishes. You should choose one you love but my sister has a shiny black granite with occasional white and gold flecks and a few blue 'pieces' in it. It is beautiful. But it shows everything! Even fingerprints. And that drives her insane. If smudges/prints don't bother you that won't matter but if you are obsessive you will regret a shiny black finish. Maybe a honed black granite without the shine?

Home Style Redesigned I agree that painting the cabinets will give your kitchen an updated look. Remember their are many shades of white, so avoid a bright white and choose a bleached linen or warm white. A black solid surface counter top will provide some contrast, look for a black that has specks of the gold or other colors on your island top. Look for a glass tile or mosaic backsplash that incorporates both the counters, island top and new cabinets. Pick your countertop, backsplash, cabinet paint and wall color prior to making a purchase. Even if you can only afford one project at a time, you need a design plan to make sure you get the results that you want.