it looks like negative reveal slab doors..meaning intentional no handles as the fingers grip around the edge with the accomodating "reveal" .....I'd be inclined to leave them for the representation of the era they are from..... Instead Id update the fridge//dishwasher as they look very old and probably are not energy efficient.

I would update the fridge and dishwasher also - stainless steel to match the stove. I would also go look at slabs for new countertop ideas.

Any handles will just busy up the space and the cabinetry doesn’t look like it needs anything. If you really want to consider hardware this style might be an option but could still look busy or just not work with your cabinets

I have black granite. It is a daily chore to keep the dust down, literally like a flat mirror. I would never do black again, but it is beautiful.

I think black counters will make that space even darker, so I wouldn't do black. I'd focus on improved lighting, updated appliances and decluttering.

Eventually applianced will be a a thing for sure as they are very dated. I sort of thought that with black countertops, our house is small so I definitely want the illusion of "bigger". What suggestions for new countertops? As for de-clutter, when getting new appliance I will option for a microwave over the stove sort of set-up. Looking for ideas and suggestions :)

You make a space brighter by turn in on the lights. Black countertops don’t accumulate any more dust than any other color countertops. I wipe my black granite down daily, it takes 20 seconds, and they are shiny and bounce light. What makes the space look small is the clutter - you have stuff sitting out on every surface. I like your style and the shelves are lovely, but you need to clear out all the stuff on the countertops and on top of the fridge, and nothing on the fridge door or sides.

I've also thought of just re-doing it to look something like this all together..

With green cabinets and butcher block or white marble countertops..

That’s really pretty! You said “slowly,” so no one recommended a full reno. Do you have the budget for that now, or are you thinking ahead?

I thought so too! I have considered it. But my husband would be the only hold up. I’m hoping just to do some diy stuff to simulate but have no clue if that’s do able.