Stoneshop To be honest, I think that it is a very charming kitchen! I see what you mean about it being a little kooky though--so many little hidden shelves, nooks, and crannies. Some de-cluttering would do wonders. After that, simply put a few nice white pieces on display (such as in the 3rd photo). I would also consider having the glass frosted to conceal the cabinet storage. However, I would not touch the cabinets! Please do not paint them. If you do any painting, you could possibly whitewash the beadboard. If you still want to update the cabinets, perhaps purchase some nice contemporary pulls.

Best of luck! It looks like a beautiful home!

redheadedwmn Wow! What a great place. I would suggest frosting the glass cabinet doors to help reduce the "cluttered" look and that should clean up the view a bit in the kitchen. I like the cherry and it looks like it fits with the style of the home, my personal opinion would be to change out the wood knobs for stainless to match the appliances. Love your idea of whitewashing the beadboard.

Good luck!!

alwaystipa I love the wood cabinets as well and completely agree with the idea of frosting the cabinet glass to eliminate a lot of the clutter. Be very choosy with what ever pieces that will remain out on display and try and keep them very monocromatic and without much pattern. I would also change out the window coverings to a light fabric valance or shade and have matching bedding and pillows for the bunk bed area. Unify your space using similiar accents and light colors.

cathrynsaylor I totally agree with other commentators. Don't paint that wood! It's beautiful. De-clutter, frosting of glass, and simple accessories and you will have a lovely kitchen that fits the decor of the home.

Bond Girl I love your kitchen! Since your haven't even moved in yet, I'd tell you to wait a year before you do anything rash (like painting the cabinets). I love the idea about frosting the glass and declutter. If you have any extra money right now, rather than paint, buy a SS fridge. It may sound silly, but the shiny SS will help reflect light, match the other appliances and feel modern. SS pulls would also break it up, but not be permanent. If that's still not enough play around with ideas for that beadboard. Some whites (accessories as suggested above, or paint on drywall) may help break up the all wood feel.

alwaystipa Something that is bothering me in the photos you posted is the white painted wood trim around the window by the fireplace. And I think I see another strip of it in the 3rd picture with the sink. The bright stark white is too much of a contrast with the warm wood and I would tone that down with a little bit warmer color. Also, the style of your kitchen is called "Arts and Crafts" and it's a wonderfully historic design style. In keeping with the period design, I would go with hammered pewter cabinet hardware rather than stainless. The metal hardware would give the contrast that is needed but yet wouldn't look like your melding different design periods. I would also add coordinating muted colored area rugs in the kitchen and bunk area as well as cream colored vases or decor elements on the fireplace mantel. Your kitchen looks like so much fun! I would love to be able to jump in and go shopping! :-D