Pictures would make it easier for the rest of us to visualize what you're working with. I've linked a thread below which will help you with posting pictures on this forum. Also your links to the bead and batten references are not working. I know you said you already added one white counter. Are you committed to staying with white counters or would you be willing to do white cabinets with a darker countertop? The pop of color in your walls may be enough to counter the white. Again pictures would be best and if you can link to the wall color, that would be great as well. Here is a link that might be useful: Thread with lots of help for newbies

Nursetammi, instead of messing with the trim--because you're not really ready for that, why not paint the walls a similarly medium-dark-to-dark color that looks wonderful in lamplight, makes the trim a quiet detail, the whole coordinating with the kitchen wall at the other end? Very significantly, erasing most of the contrast provided by trim and possessions against light walls, so that your decor blended harmoniously, would keep the richness they bring but lose any feeling of clutter. This is why so many of the rich old layered rooms were in dark values. To me, going this direction would only build on the inviting coziness you've already created in that area and make it a very appealing alternative to the brightness of the seating area by the kitchen. Most of my house is white with whites because it's not that large and I like that, but I think the trend for almost exclusively light walls in this era is regrettable, causing people to miss out on some very special options. http://gossiplankasinhala.net/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/Dark-Green-Living-Room.jpg

If those are laminate cabinets, you might find laminate paint. I've seen Canadian designers use it to redo those same cabs, but not sure what the paint would be called in the U.S.

This is far from a classic mcm home! the light is the only thing that looks like it's from the 50's-60's. Those cabs are builder grade oak from the 80's check ikea. you could prob do some lowers. as for the other part, save up so you can do a new countertop w/an overhang for that peninsula. also, trim out the front of the peninsula w/some panel trim work, and paint. the front of this looks like plywood! try something like this, and do the side as well, and paint and paint the cabs while youre at it. get yourself some inexpensive hardware for the cabinets. don't know what you can spare for a budget, but if you paint them yourself, can do some basic carpentry and look into a pre-fab countertop, you wouldn't need more than 2-3K. Ikea is another option if you just want to remove everything and start over. RTA cabinets are another option. for about 3K, and some install work, you could have all new cabs. countertops, another 2K. and if you want a tall pantry, remove that window and install one next to the fridge.