I will check out the Valspar paint color. I don't think white is what I am going for. I also want to look at some deep creams. There is a Wild Honey in Behr premium paints that I want to get a sample of, as well as Haze. I have to make this decision by Monday, when my painter purchases the paint. I have been arranging a major overhaul of my daughter's townhouse (lots of urine damage from cats), etc. and have had to do it in two weeks time. Picking out everything in such a short period is difficult for me, even though I love decorating! Just so want this home to look great and sell, so my daughter can afford to live in Texas, where she is moving to for a job and to continue to pursue a serious relationship. We don't have money for two mortages (who does?!!), so getting this right is important. And I know having a home with a nice welcoming color is so important to get buyers seriously interested.

Just lost internet and my message - Grrr I really struggled with this as well. I didn't want to replace the floor, so sanded and coated- no stain. It is oak but not solid oak(I think it would bring called an oak laminate- probably has 8-18 years of life left) Everything looked like we were trying to match but failed. The floor has a lot of variation in it. If I started from scratch- I would have more contrast similar to badgergal.

We had our kitchen gutted and redone with cherry cabinets, maybe slightly lighter than yours. If you have real cherry (not cherry color stain), you may decide to keep them. Although cherry paints well (as compared to oak), painted cabinets don’t hold up as well as factory finished. The other advantage is that they don’t show the dirt! We kept our oak floors, but had them refinished in clear water-based poly. Over time, oil based poly yellows, and that may be affecting your floors. Remember, dark floors make your space darker, as well as showing every speck of dirt. The trend for the past ten years or so has been dark floors and white cabinets, although I sense that is changing. If you love it, go with that, but not because it’s popular! As to the island, remove it before the floors are done, in case they don’t extend all the way under it and need to be patched. The stone countertop can be cut down if you decide to change the island. Don’t make any kitchen choices based on not having a dining table. Go to Goodwill and pick up a table at least to tide you over.

2 1/2” red oak in a light color is the perfect, and classic, choice. It will never go out of style.