You don't do anything to those cabinets, they're beautiful!

I'd ditch the plate rack but IDK what to replace it with since you don't want open shelves. I'd re-do the backsplash to something simpler. I'd also ditch the valance above the window. I like the countertops with the cabinets and break up the sea of wood with some nice kitchen-appropriate rugs/runners.

Your cabs are beautiful. You can update the countertops and backsplash, and do new hardware. If you like the plate rack, keep it.

I'd try a new backsplash, different window covering

and glass top/more modern chairs dining set, runners.

You don’t want to change the layout so keep those pretty cherry cabs. With all of the registers up there, I wouldn’t bring cabs in ceiling. Lightening things up would be nice with all of that wood. I think removing the travertine backsplash (a traditional choice) for a simple, light transitional tile would make a big difference and you could keep your granite countertops. Take it one step further and replace your countertop too and you can bring in some color or patterns in your tile or backsplash. Depends on your budget.

Find a window treatment that goes with your new decor, no valence.

Update counters and backsplash.

My before and after - also 20 year old cabinets.

Very pretty, love the backsplash!

I see nothing much wrong with your entire kitchen. Nothing wrong with those granite counters either. So far as cabinets going to the ceiling, personally, I feel that is one of the silliest trends. I dont even like the top shelf in my regular cabinets, and sure wouldnt want another one above that. I dont mind the space above the cabinets, in fact, if you use a few colorful interesting things, up there, it would add some personality to your kitchen, which is what it is lacking. Not a lot of things, just something here and there.

Your kitchen is beautiful.

I know sometimes we get bored with what we have, or see all sorts of new shiny things and think what we have is blah.....

I am here to tell you that your kitchen is already gorgeous. Not at thing about it needs to change.

Do I paint cabinets soft white, update stain or reface? No, none of these choices.

Would update backsplash and add light fixture (jewelry for dining area) over table.

I really like your kitchen. It feels warm and clean. I think maybe you've had it long enough that it's trendy again! :) If you want to change things, I'd definitely update the backsplash and perhaps the counters. Also a new light fixture and new window treatments; cafe curtains could look nice in that window. And you could do new hardware and faucet, maybe polished nickel. It reminds me of one of my favorite designers. https://heidicaillierdesign.com/portfolio/

The cabinets are stunning!

Beyond changing the hardware and backsplash as already suggested, you might consider removing the crown molding and extend the cabinets to the ceiling to give your kitchen a more contemporary feel.

Please do not paint those beautiful wood cabinets.

Another vote for do not paint! Those cabinets look beautiful.

The counters and backsplash are dating the kitchen. A plain white counter would look nice

Extending the cabinets to the ceiling will be difficult because the material wouldnt match.

Also, your kitchen table and chairs are adding to the dated look a bit.

Beautiful, quality kitchen. What needs updating is the furniture (dining set), rug, and window valance. Beyond that, possibly backsplash and countertop but not absolutly necessary.

My first impression echoes what everyone else is saying. The cabinets are beautiful--I'd not touch them. You have wonderful high-end appliances. Does the layout work for you? If yes, I'd change out the counter tops to soapstone or honed Jet Mist granite, and get a different backsplash, possibly the same as the counter tops. Then get black hardware for the cabinets.

I also love plate racks and have one in my updated kitchen--who says they're outdated (hate that word)?

I like the Country French chairs, but the table seems a bit formal for the room, so I'd try something more casual/rustic for the table. Not a fan of the light-colored rug, perhaps try no rug.

Some examples of stained wood cabinets with dark counter tops:

Craftsman Kitchen · More Info

Ireland in CT · More Info

Red Cape · More Info

Ireland in CT · More Info

IMO that hood contraption is the biggest thing to fix. Why is there a box there at all. get a hood that works without the addition of the box. Cange all your lighting to LED 4000K it will instantly change the feel of the space . I think the granite is perfect and IMO the plate rack suits your style . Do fix what is good which IMO is the counter , the cabinets and the sink. Remove the fabric above the window and if you want something there a nice roman shade in some fabric that works with the room next to the kitchen.

Thank you everyone for your insightful comments!

I'm leaning towards having the cabinets touched up where there is water damage instead of painting, replacing the backsplash, sink, faucet, hardware. The countertops look more dated in person than in photo, so they go too. Maybe light Taj Mahal quartzite since I'd rather have something with movement over straight white quartzite for crumbs showing etc... Not familiar with soapstone, so need to research that as someone suggested. Open to suggestions on countertops too.

The valence will retire and so will the kitchen table/chairs, just hard to find comfortable chairs! And lastly, the monster hood! Will mount a flat hood on the ceiling and then put two pendants over the island, and thinking wood paneled island painted white instead of the current drywall. Need to lighten up the room since it's pretty dark most of the day. Will consider the lighting ideas if budget allows.

If looking to lighten the space, would put in light backsplash and countertop (not soapstone).

Good to hear you have backed off painting the cabinets. A light sanding, some stain and repoly will bring them back to life!!! Glad to hear the EYE-SORE of a hood is being removed. You might find light in the room gets farther w/o it!! I will never understand the desire to have a home kitchen look like it belongs in an institution. That's a lot of stove below that hood!!!! It looks like we have the same sink. I ADORE mine. Plenty of room for pot/pans to soak and always a spot to rinse and continue to use the sink. Change for change sake does not get you the best replacements!! If you have a hankering to paint--paint the island. It's only dry wall so no harm no foul!!

A flat hood on the ceiling will not be adequate ventilation for that range.

Prefer a hood that works to one just esthetically pleasing; function over form.