Pictures would help .... a light green could look nice. Wooden blinds tend to darken a room ... a light, patterned roman shade lets light in. For example, if you painted the kitchen a light gray or yellow:

We just painted a color called "Latte" over the dark red walls in our place and we keep thinking that someone left the light on! It adds that much light to the place as the red was just sucking out any light in the place. Find a color you like more for that wall and repaint...and/or maybe add a ceramic tile backsplash? It will make it feel brighter in there immediately as you will get a lot of light reflection. I love the idea of sage green with your cabinets.

Hi Maria. It's a lovely kitchen and I must admit I like the white so would probably change the accessories. I would add a huge sunburst clock or mirror above the cabinets (can't work out if it's a clock or mirror above the fire). Add a statement light over the table. Try a coloured splashback behind the cabinets. Add some coloured stools. I would say paint the kitchen chairs but I can see they are good quality! If you do want to paint then either blues, violets or even a very soft grey if you add some coloured accesories. Do make sure the colour blends with the lounge though as you can obviously see through.

Hi I want to brighten up a kitchen. I am on a tight budget. I am considering painting the pine kitchen units and perhaps replacing the black laminate counter-top. Any ideas on colours - the room is north/ north-east facing?