IKEA has amazing cabinets in all types of different finishes. You may be able to redo the whole kitchen on one of their kitchen packages. I am considering doing the same thing. I agree with michigammemom, updating the appliances in stainless, or stainless look appliances with a tile backsplash may be all you need to do. I would also paint the kitchen walls in a warm color. My kitchen is Lyndhurst Timber by Valspar, available at Lowe's. The combination of the beige with the white cabinets looks amazing. Also consider replacing the baseboard with 6" white baseboard. So many ideas, I could go on forever....

Perhaps you could just re-face the cabinets with the decorated glass inside. Change the countertops to a darker color to contrast with all the white. As well as changing the floors to the same darker color With ceramic tile. A contemporary backsplash would serve very well to add an artistic look, and if you really want to go all out you can add some under cabinet lighting arrangements. I believe they are $50 for a set of three at IKEA.

If your cabinets and appliances are in good shape, I would recommend changing the countertop and floors. Consider painting one or more of the walls a bright, happy color.

If your cabinets and appliances are both in good condition, then you need to choose one to switch out. The contrast between the two is a little unpleasant and dating your space. If you're not a huge fan of your appliances, then I would update them to stainless steel. If your appliances are fairly new, then I would paint your cabinets. You can do this yourself with a kit for a reasonable price. Once those changes are made, I would upgrade your countertops to granite or a solid stone material. It will make a huge difference! For the holidays, many stone galleries (including ours) run specials to bring the cost down. Considering the size of your kitchen, it should not be too expensive.

Best of luck & keep us posted!

Hi---Replace the appliances with stainless-look at damaged discounted pieces that can be concealed in your space. Under cabinet lighting and outlets instead of on the wall. New counters Formica has some great ones---porcelain floor that looks like wood and glass or mix tile for backsplash. Hope this is helpful. Good Luck!
[houzz=] http://www.formica.com/home/laminate/180-fx/[houzz=][houzz=]

Ah, gotta love reno’s!! With a budget of $6K!!
I would entertain the idea of paint… there are some great products out there for countertops now a day! Try Rust-oleum or gianigranite ( http://gianigranite.com) this can be a temporary solution until your budget can accommodate the real thing. Also helps with the ideas of what you want in the future.
Colour your walls to suit your taste, but I am going to give you my honest opinion, are you ready: I like the look of grey, sleek, and sexy. You have plenty of lighting, both natural and over head…So I do not suspect Grey to be too dulling. I personally love red! Red, Red, Red…. Great accent colour! I would keep my eye open for some new RED stools, Comfort & Classy yet trendy, maybe RED & Metal ~ I noticed your knobs, and would draw from that as well!!
Here are a few ideas… Keeping in mind your budget… Paint is the way to go for now!
(Notice I am even tossing in a punch of Lime colour idea, just to help with your dilemma!)
Good Luck, and Keep us posted with lots of photos!

A backsplash would definitely help this kitchen. If you're going to replace the counters, I would choose those first, then choose a backsplash that complements it. When you have chosen a backsplash, and have your other changes in mind already, I would love to help you design a custom backsplash to perfectly complement your new room. http://www.susanjablon.com

I have a similar tile floor, and it is the number one thing that is dating your space (and mine) . The cabinets look great...I would spend the $6K on countertops and floor. I am thinking of doing a laminate over the tile at my house. You can slowly swap out the appliances at a later date. Check craigslist for granite installers.