I would go light on everything. I am thinking BM Simply White for the walls - it's beautiful and I swear it glows. Are you changing the countertops? If not, I don't think I would paint the cabinets gray.

If you can afford to replace the appliances with stainless, that would help lighten the room. If you don't like stainless, I have white appliances with my wood cabinets.

I am not one of the people that is fond of gray paint, especially if the cabinets are not white. Gray walls, gray counter, brown cabinets, brown floor - I guess I am not surprised this is a kitchen that is not light and airy kitchen.

White cabinets would work with the gray countertops. It still could be a bit dull. If you keep the cabinets stained, paint the walls a very light cream or soft beige. If you do paint the cabinets, still consider a lighter wall paint color - maybe a "barely there" gray. You could even consider a color - if this kitchen is open to other rooms, then you might prefer a neutral. Painting the cabinets gray would only increase the gray dullness.

One can never have enough lighting in the kitchen. Often, lighting is an afterthought, but it's truly important in any room. Be sure to have lighting under the cupboards as well. Put all on dimmers to give you the optimum flexibility.

I would love to give you a visual on this project with what you listed. Are you interested? I can send you the visuals through email.