That is a lovely room and ceiling but can understand if it’s everwhere where it may feel oppressive. If it’s in the whole house that may feel too much and too dark. Could you post photos of other rooms so maybe people have an idea of what it feels like on a whole?

I “liked” deco’s opinion on gray, as I think gray, in general, has lived its life for now. You seem to get a good amount of natural light in the space, but I don’t think you should paint the third wall another color. You have the brick wall for accent. With your beige furniture and the light, I am going with a gray, in spite of my comments. In particular, B.M. Stonington Gray would work well in the space. When you choose draperies, have the fabric the same color as the beige furniture. It will be a nice connect with the Stonington gray walls. Also, run the rod across the window as well. I would hang the rod as high as. possible. The stack back fabric on either side will frame the space beautifully.

I did not paint my cabinets, but did do new countertops, backsplash, apron front sink and under cabinet lighting - but I like my cabinets and knew they had a lot of life left in them. If you think newer cabinets might be doable down the road, consider changing out to a simple cream subway tile backsplash, and under cabinet lighting. That would freshen and lighten the space on a budget.I would also replace the microwave with a dedicated vent, but that is because I am short and don't like over the range microwaves:) I would only redo counters if you will keep the cabinets at least 10 years - otherwise, it would be a waste of countertop. Light counters will lighten the kitchen, but not a good use of budget if it is for the short term. Painting is a good way to extend the life of worn cabinets - especially while saving for new ones. A very good paint job often needs some touch ups in 3 years, so be ready for that. If cabinets are not worn, they could look worse in 5 years then they do now and require frequent touch ups. If you are considering keeping the wood, here is a wood kitchens idea book with both new and older, refreshed wood kitchens: https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/75202366/list/wood-kitchens

Eagle painting. i.am in Michigan. what is your painting advise for colors???