I've been lurking these forums for some time. The kitchen by julieboulangerie is almost identical to my own. My layout is adequate for my smaller space and the cabinets function fine. I hate my countertop, sink and stove so plan on an upgrade there. I have a hard time ripping out perfectly good cabinets simply because I don't like the style, even though they are 15 years old. I had decided on granite (a black pearl) until I read these last few posts about laminate. Now I wonder if I should just settle for a nice laminate, new stainless sink (apron?) and range since the cabinets are dated?? Or should I choose granite now and paint the cabinets if we want a new look later? Can a wood/butcher block counter (would have to paint cabinets now) be re-used on new cabinets later? My quandary is about "settling", resale value (no immediate plans to sell), and knowing a total redo is long in coming, especially if we partially upgrade now. We have a lot of home improvement dreams so would like to stretch every dollar! I hope this is not simply repeating others' questions, but I guess I'm just looking for some clarity of thought from those with a lot of experience. I've never done this before and feel it's an enormous decision!

I still (hanging my head, shame faced) don't know how to upload photos. But I will get someone to help me and post a few. Would be best to take them in daylight. fori, having taken part in DD's reno I do know how labor intenstive it is to paint cabinets properly. DD & SIL painted them in his Dad's home and later in their own. They have a large garage space (w/ heat) & a good sprayer. I helped with the priming, sanding, & poly stages with the ones for their home. Lots of steps & drying time between but the results were so worth it. I know I'll go bananas during the process, having everything out of order. But I could get through that. I just have to decide if a change is in order. I'm so used to seeing it as it is, I can't be objective. That's why I'd like opinions from the folks here.

Sabjimata, We just had wood floors put in, and I went through the same thing. We didn't have it stained. Oh my, what a decision that was! Seems everyone else has darker floors. But, we left if plain, and I absolutely love it! I think the natural color is classic, and it flows beautifully with our decor. Plus keeps the rooms light. Our cabinets are off white. ( I posted a picture yesterday and they looked yellow- they are not) I'll post a picture soon- right now the floors are covered in paper during cab install. good luck! Everything is such a decision as you move along- but I decided it all works out because you will choose what YOU like. HTH Joan

Here is a photo with a floor with color and grain similar to your samples next to oak cabinets. It's too busy and the stain undertones clash. You need to start looking at a different part of the flooring store. Try samples with less prominent grain and not as much stain color variation. I hate to keep raining on your parade but light gray paint and white/gray stone will not look good with orange oak. You are mixing warm and cool colors. Even though gray and wood tones are both considered "neutral", they don't usually play nice together. Here is an oak with light spice stain. It is from Bruce.