Backsplash and/or new countertops could make a big difference.

In addition to @mdln's suggestion, I'd consider adding some recessed and under-cabinet lighting to brighten the space. It feels dark more because of the lack of light than the color of the cabinets. Change out the flushmount fixture over the island for one that has a single canopy with multiple pendants, or perhaps a linear fixture.

Not a Pro.

I would replace all your lighting and hardware on the cabinets then reaccess regarding back splash and counter top.

Lighting first look at LEDs in 4000K range to give a feel of natural daylight then you can make good color choices .That would include the lighting in the whole main living space BTW . New counter would be nice but IMO that island is too small and no ceiling fans in kitchens or DRs .It looks like your stove in on an outside wall if so change that useless MW for a nice hood vent properly vented to the outside. I would leave the hardware for now until you deide about what you use for the larger island it could be a piece that looks more like furniture if that works with the rest of your decor. All stainless appliances will help too and make sure you get a counter depth fridge next time.

Instead of focusing on color in the kitchen, I'd pick my favorite color ... and bring it into that adjacent room in a major way: sofa, rug, accessories.

Then add that same color in the kitchen in an accessory-kind-of-way: linens, placemats, etc. With all the color "next door", the bit of color in the kitchen would feel like more.

In addition to what they are saying^^, perhaps consider this, for big impact:

Polished hardware to give a little bling

Painting upper cabinets white. Someday, consider adding molding/trim to carry those uppers to the ceiling

white backsplash (shiny)

white countertop

pretty chandelier in the middle- no to the fan

This will give you more "brightness" to your dark kitchen, and a high contrast look.

The black frig is a missed opportunity to provide some neutral bling (stainless steel).If that's gray I see on your walls, I would paint them white to match backsplash tile, chosen to catch the brightest white tones in a new countertop.

Here's some photos for inspiration.

I agree with Mrs Pete. Integrate it to the other rooms, with color. Personally I find your kitchen elegant and serene, the diamond backsplash is classic. I might consider a bit more color to the paint on the walls. And pretty knobs.

This is my wood kitchens idea book with both new and older, refreshed kitchens:

https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/75202366/list/wood-kitchens

For my refresh I did new counters, backsplash, apron front sink, and under cabinet lighting. If this was my kitchen I would do the same except I would also change out the over the range microwave for a hood. This is partly because I am short, but also a dedicated vent works better. It also is an opportunity to replace something that looks OK, with something that is pretty.

following

often I see a complementing, striking light to do alot, please the eye....and new one for nearby room.

in person do you still like the dark tall unit, almost detracting from the windows - large canvas art could help the whole space- use a color from for accessories.

that could be a good chalk paint project - maybe accent color, but muted into blend in....www.anniesloan.com

accent color stools. seems many want change in neutral nice permanent elements, but that doesn't show owners' personality as much...

If it is in your budget, I would replace the light, countertops and backsplash. Otherwise, just change the light now and when you do replace your appliances, I would use stainless steel, and paint the black stools, which will really lighten the space.

Lovely home, but the lighting is terrible. You will discover a whole new home if you address the lighting issues. All the fixtures appear to be builder grade, so start there.

Thanks everyone for your insights. I appreciate having outside perspectives.
I’m going to go with the overwhelming consensus and start with improving the lighting situation. I like all the other suggestions, too, and will formulate a staged plan with those in mind.

Your dark floors and dark cabinets look like they are in good condition. The black appliances also add darkness to the room.
Your lighting seems less bright than it can be. Check with a lighting store for brighter bulbs.
The laminate counters and simple backsplash seem good enough for now.
The knobs and handles are barely visible because they are brushed silver-gray metal. Maybe you can replace them with polished knobs and handles. The brushed knobs and handles are worth keeping and using in another room or bathroom.
The missing element is color. If you have a favorite color, add it in bits and pieces to the kitchen and the adjacent space: kitchen towels, potholders, a runner rug at the sink counter, a ceramic container to hold big utensils, some art, a set of mugs for coffee or soup in the kitchen; a rug, a couple of pillows, art, window treatments in the adjacent room. Wallpaper or fabric with your favorite color could work, too.

Hey kville14 ,

I would suggest an new paint color and new cabinet hardware. Cabinet hardware can really help brighten up the look of a kitchen. I would suggest checking out Century Hardware's Belvedere or Yukon collections. Best Wishes!

Yukon Collection · More Info

Belvedere Collection · More Info

Not a pro but the FIRST thing I would do is get rid of those depressing dark appliances. After 16 years it's time for a change working or not. Stainless steel appliances will make a big difference imo.

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I agree that the lighting is a good place to start. Undercabinet, along with a new fixture over the island. Use brushed nickel to bring a little shine into the space. The same for your cabinets-brushed nickel hardware in a larger size to bring light to the cabinets. I used Jeffrey Alexander hardware in both my bathrooms and my kitchen and love the quality.