From the photos, depending on the budget, I would start with lighting, countertops, and cabinet hardware. These changes will make a big impact. Also take down everything above the cabinets for a clean new look for your kitchen. Best wishes!

Take all the stuff of the top of the cabinets and change the lighting

Change counter top, replace fluorescent light fixtures, do a back splash and remove items on top of cabinets.

Graham

Change counter top to lighter color, change the lighting, I would recommend a pendant for kitchen, maybe a round one

I agree with you. I think you don't have to make big improvements. If you change the lighting and the colour of the furniture for example,it will look totally different.

Countertops and tile backsplash are a good place to start, but cabinet refacing may also be an option. It looks like there is much that can be done, but it all depends on your budget. If you visit www.crsreno.ca you can see the some work that may be inspirational to your project.

It can be hard to find ideas and pictures for refreshed oak kitchens. I did do new countertops and backsplash and farmhouse sink - More pics in my "my pics" idea book.

https://www.houzz.com/photos/my-pics-work-in-progress-phvw-vp~58830325

Here are a few other pics of pretty kitchens with mid tone wood cabinets.

Your kitchen may be too small for this - remove some uppers and tile up the wall:

Panels replaced with glass in some doors. This hood is probably $$$ but a good vent hood rather than an over the range microwave would be pretty.

New light counters and paint:

New countertops and backsplash!