If you really plan on being there for just one more year be very careful that the money you spend will not create a headache for the next owner, i.e. You put in granite counters with tile backsplash that the new owner can't use because they are going to likely rip out the whole kitchen to reconfigure the layout. White cabinets would look great with your white appliances but unless you have them professionally spray painted they will look like a quick fix and will not enhance your selling price. If you must do something, try replacing your cabinet hardware.

Thanks for your reply. Yes, we don't want to do granite because we are sure the new owners will want to redo the kitchen. The cupboards will be sprayed and fitted with new hardware if we go ahead with it. Any suggestions on the style for the hardware? We were thinking of a subway tile for the backsplash with a dark gray laminate countertop. That way, we won't have spent a lot. I sometimes think we should just leave it the pickled oak but then worry the kitchen will put people off. We've redone all other rooms--hardware floors, fresh paint, etc. this is the last room.

I wouldn't do too much. It does look nice as is. I agree with new hardware and maybe new lighting. How about some under cabinet lights?

Yes, we were thinking of adding under cabinet lights because the trim would make the cabinets look longer. That can only be done if the cupboards are painted as the pickled oak is out of style. Good idea about the new lighting. Thanks.

I agree with the recommendations for cabinet/sink hardware updates as well as some updated lighting. This will give your kitchen a face lift and it will show better when you get ready to put it on the market. Good luck!

I see annapearl has already posted my idea. I think the wall color isn't doing a thing for the cabinets. Without knowing what other rooms & colors are visible from the kitchen, recommending a different color is difficult. A valance or curtains would also soften the look. Hardware is expensive, a can of paint for the walls a window treatment would help alot.

Thanks Michele. The other rooms are Benjamin Moore Natural Linen. The kitchen is BM Coventry Gray. The kitchen is open to the family room and both are painted this colour. As we are selling, we tried to go for neutral colours, but I'm open to ideas.

What if you went to a stone yard and found a leftover piece for the island alone, added large, turned posts at the corners or beadboard under the island counter and painted it a great color or two and found some funky new hardware pieces? Maybe a new high neck faucet too. Then accents in the color you chose for the island. The new focal point might take prospective buyers' minds off the older cabinets and counter.

I think that's a great idea! The current one is pretty plain and we were wondering what to do. Getting a piece for the countertop as well as some beadboard would really dress it up and not cost much at all. Plus it would save us the time and money of having the cupboards spray painted. I agree that a nice kitchen faucet would dress up the sink area. Thanks for some great ideas.

Would a green go with the family room? Not a minty green, but a rich, muted green or annapearls rust? You need some contrast for the cabinets, which aren't that bad. Anything but gray! If you're selling, you want the most bang for your buck. I don't think your kitchen is as bad as you think it is. I understand wanting to keep it neutral for re-sale purposes, but painting the walls is a whole lot cheaper & easier than painting the cabinets and replacing the hardware. Oh and after you paint, put up a valance for some interest & softness. Harping now!!!

gpelli's idea regarding beefing up the island is spot on. I have beadboard in a bathroom and the kitchen and I love it. It's fairly inexpensive and really delivers an appeal. My husband insists that I suggest a wood top for your island. He likes the one he made so much and so do I! It might be cost prohibitive though for re-sale purposes though.

I haven't read through all of the posts, but I will throw in a couple of thoughts. I think a nice crystal chandelier would dress it up a bit, and a couple of simple bar stools would be nice.

Hi! Looks like you have a very nice area! I think something I would consider doing would be placing a few wall art pieces above the cabinets. Here are a few suggestions:

http://deciture.com/shop/decor/7/walter-wooden-wall-keys-set-3/

http://deciture.com/shop/decor/7/keyhole-plaques-set-4/

A year goes fast, blink and it's 3 months past. I would do the minimum to enhance your pretty cabinets and nice white appliances. Paint a color that really makes those cabinets stand out. Perhaps a soft sage or pale green. Let the new owners make it their own.

I would not touch the cabinets or appliances, I would get some granite countertops, change cabinet knobs, and find a matching mosaic backsplash.

I'd like to thank everyone for their wonderful ideas. I think we're convinced to leave the cupboards, paint and fix up the island and find a new colour for the walls. A new tap for the sink should finish it off. Thanks again to all.

I would talk to a Realtor about this. It depends on your location and the prospective buyer. It certainly looks good enough for resale. I've seen some homes on the market with kitchens that look like they should be condemned.

Lol. Thanks for the idea.

Paint the walls black and the bulkhead white.
The island base black. 2 black and stainless bar stools.
New light fittings, halogen type industrial stainless/chrome/black spots above sink. A drop down light with 2 fittings above island in black metal.
A groovy tap- black or stainless/chrome gooseneck.
New hardware if the budget stretches.
The timber floor is gorgeous. The laminate is pristine.
Small expenditure for a great update.

How about painting the cabinets? Check out some colors here: http://carolinaheartwoodcabinetry.com/our-products/premium-paint/pirate-coast-gallery/ And then add on some Wilsonart granite looking laminate by Web Don? all at great price points!