Time to update our dated 1980's kitchen (oak, oak everywhere) and we
will need lots of help but wanted to focus our plans a bit more before
bringing in the renovator. While we obviously have to spend a fair
amount to make it look updated and classy, we were trying to avoid the
expense of completely replacing the cabinets.

My spouse has moved a few cabinets (up and or pulled out a bit) to get a
feel for how we could create more interest. We've pulled off the ugly
under cabinet trim and the modest above cabinet trim with plans to
increase the 'profile'. we've pulled down an ugly oak box fluorescent
light from above the island.

Our initial thoughts are to replace the floor with hardwood, paint the
cabinets a creamy white and island a dark espresso. Extra decorative
trim would be added to the island. And, of course we need to select a
new countertop, sink/faucet, backsplash, cabinet hardware and lighting.


Questions:

1) The cabinets. Would you repaint the cabinets? What colour would you suggest? Would painting them a light colour adequately disguise that old arch style cabinet door enough to still have a classy effect? Should we reface a couple of the cabinets with a frosted glass or similar to create interest? Would you take the cabinets on the fridge wall right up to the ceiling? Any other suggested improvements or reconfiguration of the cabinets?


2) The island. Could we re-orient it slightly and have a bit more
overhang to create a bigger more interesting shape (we're limited by
physical constraints in the kitchen though). Any specific suggestions on how to improve it? My husband is keen on a shelf to create more surface area, but I am concerned that it will make the kitchen look smaller and less 'open'. Also, we currently have that little bar sink in the island. My husband likes having it there with the idea of helping with food prep. (In reality, we don't often use it other than for putting a
garbage bag in it to toss things in as we are chopping/prepping food.)
Can a bar sink work on an island this size or is it best to leave a
clean open surface?


3) Over the stove. Should we move the microwave (and put a microwave oven drawer in the island perhaps?) to create a nice looking range hood over the stove? Can you have a nice looking wooden range hood that doesn't vent to the outside?


Sorry if I'm asking too many questions at once! Any ideas at all are
most appreciated!