i think all I'd do is change to a white backsplash tile / get new pendants/ a roman shade or something else for the window [light filtering or what goal?] the cabinet arch doesnt bother me and the stain looks good w the floor so why change all that? if you want more of a splurge...get new counters and more overhang..... then new stools might be in order. can you do a full 15 in overhang ?

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I think that the linear glass mosaic backsplash (and granite countertops - but not as much as the backsplash) needs to be replaced in order to "update" the kitchen more than the stained cabinets. Plus, a new window covering over the sink.

Changing the granite would allow you to have a larger overhang which would allow stools to actually work for seating at your peninsula.

Agree with above posters. The cabinets are fine (they're quite nice, actually), no to painting. It's the backsplash that needs to go. The countertop doesn't bother me, but I can see where changing it out would update the space.

I agree with above. Nothing wrong with the cabinets, Its the backsplash most of all, that needs replacing. If you could replace countertops, that would help a lot too. Also paint the walls, and add a bit of color to some accessories, curtains, rug, wall art, etc, to give the room some interest. Its very boring room right now, and needs some personality, rather than a room, no one ever uses.

I concur with what everyone else has said. Painted cabinets often don't hold up well unless they are done with a process that will likely be nearly as expensive as new cabinets.

Plus, wood cabinets are trending now, if you are interested in looking current!

I always find it interesting when people have under-cabinet lighting and don’t use it. Are they old fluorescent bulbs? Is there a reason you don’t use them? You can change them out for LED replacement bulbs. Can you please post a better lit image?

Consider what everyone else is seeing that you, perhaps, are not, and look for new backsplash options. For window treatments, do you need privacy, light filtering, or are you hoping to add a design element?

Instead of spending the 10K for a pro to finish those cabinets in an industrial wood coating, spend that on a new counter and backsplash. Then add another 5K to it to fix all the lighting issues.

I would start with the backsplash and see if you think your kitchen needs more. Wood tones are coming back and the granite is still a very nice top even if it isn't a white quartz like everyone gravitates toward. I agree with a different window treatment. I do like your pendants.

That’s a lovely layout to work with — great light and solid bones! We’ve seen a lot of homeowners refresh a similar setup by going with softer cabinet tones like light greige or muted sage, especially when trying to complement granite countertops without clashing. Even a two-tone approach (lighter uppers, deeper lowers) can give that modern lift without a full overhaul.

For window treatments, something as simple as a clean roman shade in a natural texture could really warm up the space and tie things together. At RTAHQ, we often hear from customers who’ve taken this route and been surprised how much difference it makes in the overall vibe.

Curious to see which direction you go — it’s a space with tons of potential!