SFGate

Stamps Design Services You could stain or paint the cabinets and go with light or dark colors, depending on what you like. Don't forget to update the knobs and handles as well. You can mix ceramic and glass tiles to add visual interest. I would recommend you keep the flooring and woodwork the same, (so your home doesn't get that disjointed feeling as you move from room to room).

diydamsels I think the cabinets are great and would leave them. To update the kitchen I would replace the backsplash and replace the hardware on the cupboard doors. If you can afford the extra expense, maybe replace the counter top with granite. Then top it all off with a new window covering.

onthefence I just saw reference on another thread to Cerused Oak. Of course Houzz has an ideabook on it ;-) I'm really taken with this and thought I'd add it to the mix for your consideration in addition to paint or stain. There are a few examples of how this looks in the ideabook.

twylahaj I, too, have honey oak cabinets and would like to update, but I have to say yours are MUCH nicer than mine with more modern lines and in really good shape from the looks of the photos. Before you decide to do anything to the wood I'd recommend getting the new countertop in, new hardware on the doors and drawers, and doing an eye catching backsplash. If you can paint the walls a higher contrast color that will make a big difference (though it depends on how open your floorplan is), and if you're brave paint the trim around the window and door a different color, too. Continue either the wall color or the trim color as the back of the open shelving to break up the oak a bit, if you can. Change out or paint the table and chairs for more contrast if the other bit isn't enough to please you. Furniture is far easier to paint than cabinets and comes out better, in my experience. After you've done all that, you may find the cabinets don't bother you. If they do still bother you, start by just changing the finish on the island. Different color cabinets (and tops) on kitchen islands seem to be showing up on many decorating shows, so it would feel modern and be a much easier change to deal with than refinishing all the cabinets.

If your whole house has those same oak floors you probably don't want to change the color of those as it will lead to weird transitions from room to room. My own personal taste is that two different color stains on wood are less compatible than one stain and one paint, in case that is helpful.

I will also add that the kitchen is really quite nice as it is and just some pops of color in window treatments, chair cushions, and displayed dishes along with the new counters (and backsplash?) that you already have planned might be enough to help you learn to love your kitchen again without as much work and investment as you're considering....

want2bhome Thank you for the suggestions! It seems countertops and backsplash are in order. Everyone suggested new hardware. Right now this is oil rubbed bronze. Is that out now? Is a brushed nickel more the way to go? And the fixture would need to go, too, with something to match the hardware?