How about some closer pics from multiple angles. I like the big pics when clicked on. I'd explore repurposing the pantry(I'm assuming) space to allow the frig to be closer. Maybe where the door is. You're tight on space. You can likely still have plenty of shallow shelf storage. You'll get more ideas if you draw up a floorplan with lots of readable measurements. Don't be discouraged if someone comes on with his usual $150k post.

$10 k

Man, I must be getting really old, as that looks like a new kitchen to me! Can't see it very well, but already has light counters and backsplash. Again, can't see well, but I'm guessing the gray paint is on the island? I could see repainting that. And the comment about moving refrigerator, or maybe making it look more built-in would be an improvement.

2019

I would enlarge the island and get a new countertop for that and leave the rest. The island now looks small compared to the kitchen.

Also, paint the doors and trim the same color. I would go with the lighter color or pick a new light color.

I was thinking of a larger island with a large pattern granite top as well.

I’d definitely change the backsplash. The countertops , as far as I can see, are fine.

Do you want to paint the uppers and the island? White. And then leave the lowers brown.

Paint the closet doors white.

And then, maybe get a cute door for the pantry. Something like the photo below.

I agree to enlarge the island. Lengthwise…

Also new pendants ?

Great ideas! Paint the uppers and island in the same color. Love the cute door idea.

Quick mock up - BBL 🤎🤍

Ok. Just the cabinets around the hood? Yes, I was thinking of that as well. But including the doors and pendants brins it together.

More depth or definition.

I really don't like the white of the island -- it's just too harsh a contrast against the dark floors. Painting the cabinets white would be a huge mistake for the same reason. Unless you have the floor refinished to a less bossy color, I think you're going to have to run with what you have, the floors are directing the show here. Leave the cabinets alone, paint the island a darker color and pull in some color into that sea of darkness with area rugs that coordinate with your island color. No gray on the walls -- IMO gray doesn't play well with the floors, those floors are warm-toned.

One things for sure, it's not going to be as easy as I'd hoped.

Not a lot. I can paint.

The hike between the fridge and the sink, around the island would drive me bonkers. It's a very poorly designed layout. I cook a lot so it would bring me more joy to fix the pantry/fridge/coffee bar situation first and then have the cabinets painted later as budget allows.