Outshopping, thanks! I did it by myself. I followed this blogpost and it was quite easy. https://justdestinymag.com/the-best-way-to-paint-your-stair-rails-black/

I think the wood is lovely, and believe we are going to see a resurgence so wouldn't paint the trim (and certainly not if it's going to cost tens of thousands). I would instead repaint the interior walls, and would personally go with a light neutral throughout the home. Not sure how it would mesh with your wood tones, but many of us are big fans of Sherwin Williams Accessible Beige. Here is one example of that color: You need to be careful with undertones though.

I have just had my walls painted. Now going to do the flooring. So glad I waited to do the flooring. The painting and new blinds make the rooms look so much brighter. Previously considered the Calypso oak before the painting and was hesitant. Does it have a warmer golden or honey cast to it. Pictures don't seem to be accurate. I need a lighter color don't want anything that is dark and going to show the dust etc. Some of the lighter colors looked washed out. Don't want a golden color either but would prefer it be a warmer look. Do you like the Calypso oak and is it easy to clean.

You may be identifying the wrong problem and solution to modernize your space. As others have said, you have a lot of very dark pieces--china cabinet, dark counter stools, dark countertops that visually darken the space. Look at the photos below that also have golden trim. They look modern because the furnishings and lighting are lighter. Some suggestions: --New wall paint. Here's a classic Houzz article on paints that harmonize with wood trim. Stark white isn't the way to go. You need something warmer. Take a look at the whites in this article and search other articles for "whites that go with golden oak." https://www.houzz.com/magazine/11-terrific-paint-color-matches-for-wood-details-stsetivw-vs~9025200 --Can you take the top off the china cabinet and turn it into a buffet? --Can you get more modern counter stools in a golden tone, not this one necessarily, but something lighter? Or paint those you have in an ivory? -- --I see your great orange enamal ware. Why not treat yourself to a modern art work on your big wall with some orange and blues in it? This palette: --I'm with the others that the curtains are just. too. much. Notice how in the above photos there's very little window "dressing." We might be wrong, but can you take down the curtains and see how that looks and feels for awhile?