I think an off white that compliments the lightest color in your floor would be pretty.

What don't you like about the cabinets? I think they look nice. Are you trying just to refresh the look of the kitchen?

Just my point of view: I find the cabinets to be neutral.... a warm brown, an easy neutral to work with (well, that's how they appear on my screen). I'm not sure why you want to work with gray? The current dark countertops at least make the black appliances and knobs make sense.

If the insides are also in good condition and you want a different look--check out refacing the cabinets.

do you have a backsplash cant really see...thats kinda the point..... small noticeable details and editing is what I would focus on. Id like to remove the cabinet flanking the window. clear the window area of valance/ signage/ and things sitting out. ....install open shelf left of window or smaller cab in the honey stain with glass door easy to do this ......hardware ....[try for a bit more of a statement than those].....a bit of a schoolhouse style fixture above sink ... and bigger scaled floor mats/runner? in more of a green play w color and/or pattern. and the issue of backsplash/ get one or swap what you have ...more money avail...??..maybe new lighter counters. I wouldnt alter the cabinets except for hardware. good luck !! You can work with what is there I think and be happy with it.

I do, large tile.

is the backsplash staying/ a traditional subway would be more in keeping ..that looks like a 1990's tile for floor or somewhere else.....we hate to be critical here but you have basic good bones in your space..... a traditional subway will work with what you have much better...that tile seems confusing for your space. Start to create an inspiration board with your budget and what you are willing to do then a few other details as per discretion. Then juggle around a few inserted ways of the elements you care to change .

I don't see gray cabinets working with your flooring or your backsplash.

There are two things that are "dated" about your cabinets: (1) the arches on the upper cabinets, and (2) the corner cabinet that is higher than the rest.

I also like the wood that you have (even though I usually don't like oak).

I don't really have a specific suggestion, but I would clear everything off the counters and then add back slowly. Maybe something with a pop of color (a different coffeemaker, or utensil holder??) Sometimes just a small change can make a big difference.

I wouldnt paint them, and I wouldnt change the counters to lighter either. What you have all goes together nicely. I might clear off some of the clutter on the counters, and only put there what is necessary to have there. Put the rest in an easy access area under a cabinet or in a drawer. You might pick your favorite brighter color, and add a few small accessories, and also pick a new valance for your window.