Brushed nickel hardware, New lighting, Colorful accessories.

Not sure how far you are looking to go with your update, but I would definitely update that island. I think a large one-level island with practical storage and potential for seating would be nice. I would also suggest a different paint color and a backsplash (kinda hard to tell if there is one from photo). Cheers and good luck.

I would start by just painting the walls a light neutral.

New hardware and I would change the island to all one level it would make for a much more useable counter and just have that counter a different material than the rest like a really simple quartz. Change the lighting in the DR

It's a nice kitchen! Agreed about the island needing to be one level and provide some seating on the end. If you're painting the walls, I'd remove the crown molding "racing stripe" all around the room. Leave it at the top of the cabinets and paint the soffit all white. To match cabinets. You could add crown molding at the ceiling above the cabinets. It wouldn't look so choppy and give the illusion that the cabinets go to the ceiling.

I think the kitchen looks fine, however, I would replace the island with a one level island in a contrasting finish and update your light fixture selections.

Nice space to update. Counter-tops and Island update with updated cabinet hardware and lighting. The budget depends on the updated options. Black painted french doors and glass cabinetry can be a focal point to display possessions with lighting and add ambiance to your space. Inspirations below and good luck.

Thanks everyone, I love all the ideas. Not sure if I am going to go for that home but I love the ideas.

So you're home shopping? With this kitchen you'd have to schlep all your foods across the room from the fridge to the sink for prep. Keep that in mind as you look around.