I wanted to add that if you painted them right I think it could look nice, but you might want to change out your white appliances b/c then it would be too much white.

white is more than fine and don't change appliances, let them disappear. find a countertop and backsplash you love. it will be a different room

I would go for some under cabinet LED lighting - check out some examples on our page http://www.houzz.com/pro/flexfireleds/flexfire-leds

For me personall,y, i like your kitchen as is. But i'm thinking a darker (granite) counter top

The cabinets are 3/4 overlay face frame, a style that lost popularity in the late 80's. Without replacing the doors and drawer fronts to a full overlay style, it will be hard to create a new look with paint alone. Consider replacing the countertops, adding a tile back splash and and installing decorative hardware on the doors and drawers. After you have done that and if you feel like you still need a bit more updating, then consider painting the cabinets.

Maybe check out something like this http://insidestoryinteriors.blogspot.ca/2013/11/chalk-paint.html?m=1 it's cheap enough and seems relatively easy! Might save a lot of money on replacing cabinets when you could use that elsewhere!

Thanks for all the comment. I have decided not to paint (not just yet) but will look at just replacing counter tops with dark solid surface and a backsplash. Still a work in process.

We love to paint those oak cabinets....same kitchen, same cabinets. We did replace the doors and drawers for a shaker look, but you can do it with the same doors you have. Best of luck in your projects - Robert