hi, this cup-board is so classic, so beautiful ! i think stay in white, get some interesting knob for doors, it can brighten up the cup-board and that area.

i guess i do not like the tiles, get something in light color with pattern.
do wish u have a new good looking kitchen.

I'm seeing lots of wallpaper used in the back of cabinets to brighten them up..?

Sand, strip paint off, get down to the bare wood. It won't work unless you start from scratch. YOu might like the wood. Old pieces were often made of really good walnut, oak, ash. Stuff we pay a fortune for now. Have new drawers made. They're not that expensive. Obviously you need interior latches to keep the bottom doors shut; easy to intall.

Once you know what you've got, painting white is a classic way to go, if the wood isn't anything special. You could also paint it a high-gloss color that would instantly modernize the piece and add incredible interest to your kitchen. Houzz has several ideabooks on that. What do you love?

This is a wonderful piece worth the effort. Go for it. Be adventurous. Trust your gut. Good luck!

thank you very much for the great ideas. I also thought of painting it white and wallpaper for the back of the cabinets.Actually I have found the drawers and they seem to be o.k. So nice to hear encouraging words, this renovation is bringing me down :)