Can you post photos?

First, let me suggest that you also try posting this question in the Kitchens forum, too. You won't violate any rules against double posting and that is where the design mavens hang out.

Second, as to whether to start with the appliances or the cabinets, the answer is --- it depends on what you have in mind.

it might help with responses if you could be a bit more specific about the appliances you are looking for. For instance, are you planning on a new range or are you looking for a cooktop and wall ovens, or maybe range and an additional oven? Major brand ranges come in standard widths and heights, but installation requirements for cooktops and wall ovens can vary. If you are looking for a range, are you planning on a freestanding model (one with controls on a thick backsplash) or a slide-in (one with all controls down front and either no backsplash or a very thin riser). If you are thinking about a slide-in, then you may want to consider the specs on that when figuring the height of your base cabinets and counters. (Some slide-in ranges have stovetop lips intended to cover the gap between stove and countertop, but stove vary in how low or high they can go.)

Also, there is some variation in fridge heights, and that is something to consider if you plan on cabinets above the fridge. Another consideration could be the type of fridge you want -- slide-in, French door, stanard door bottom freezer, or top freezer.

Doubtless others will have more suggestions here and in the kitchens forum.

When you post in the Kitchen Forum include a floor plan of the dining, kitchen and family room space with measurements.

As mentioned above, it really depends on what you are planning on doing with your kitchen. Are you planning on selling your house any time soon?

Generally speaking, we suggest choosing your appliances first, and designing the cabinets around it; the main reason being because specs and clearance requirements can majorly affect the design. The other reason for doing so, is that you can than also decide where one thing should go in relation to the rest, for example you would need/want the dishwasher next to the sink, and a trash can close by; pots and pans would work well close to the range/oven, etc.

If you have photos, plans and/or measurement we can also try to assist you with decisions. :)

"I priced appliance suites"

You'll do better to buy appliances individually and not worry about having the same brand. As you already have seen, no manufacturer makes all the appliances well. Some have good fridges, but not good ranges, some have good dishwashers, but not good fridges, etc. Don't worry about matching handles; no one will care or notice once everything is in. Also, perhaps you'd want to spend more for a high-end type for one appliance, say your range, but you don't wish to pay a lot for,e.g., a fridge. When you buy a suite of appliances, they are all in the same tier. You could decide, for example, to buy a Thermador range which is certainly pricey, but you might not want their fridge, also pricey, and would be happy with a Whirlpool fridge. Or, you may want a dishwasher that is high-end like a Miele, but you don't cook much, so an inexpensive range would be fine. Those are individual choices/preferences, and are just some examples, to explain why not to buy a suite of appliances.

Don't forget to budget for an exhaust hood. If you are going to re-do and modernize your kitchen, try to avoid the over-the-range microwave.

Start with your budget. That will be the most limiting factor to any project. National average is 63K for mid range. 125K for upscale. 250K for Houzz level.

Yes, budget is important, but national averages are meaningless. The biggest variation in costs will be with cabinets, not appliances. I agree you should select appliances first, and as mentioned above they don't have to be from the same manufacturer (although finishes should match or be compatible). Create a dimensioned floor plan, then go to kitchen design stores to get an idea of what acceptable cabinets will cost.

As for color, the kitchen will not look awkward if it light and bright!

Kitchen facelift - I plan on new flooring, new appliances, one by one, and finally refresh the cabinet doors. Should I start with flooring - ? Otherwise I would have to move all of the new appliances. With new flooring first, all old appliances and old flooring will go out for pick up, flooring put in, and new appliances will be delivered/installed after. I can live without a new stove and dishwasher. First new appliance would be the fridge. New dishwasher should be installed after new flooring. I do not plan on changing any walls or cabinet layout. Cabinets can be painted/repaired later - ? Any comments, please - ?