Nothing is impossible :) Heat resistant tiles are available ,look at these for instance http://www.alibaba.com/showroom/heat-resistant-ceramic-tiles.html

Hi ...Zaz I am not sure what went on here in Houzz .... While I have been away ..(sneezing coughing sweating) Whatever it was Move on from it !! as best you can ... Otherwise these things eat away at you ... And being on a downer that's not good for anyone ..........including you .... You have a Talent truly you do Lots see it ...... Even if you can't ....... So Put it toooooo good use If not for yourself ........ Then for others so they might enjoy it Seeing others smile from Something you have done Is gift.... I know I love toooooo Give that gift of a smile ..... Be it from writing or resisting my Poems Playing my little ukuele Painting So dust yourself off there's work toooooooo be done :@) Get your a@£& In that kitchen ... Today is the start of a new and better year ...... Of which only You Can make happen !!

Hi. It's difficult to say without seeing it other than paint and new handles. If you don't want to spend hours prepping the furniture try annie Sloan chalk paint (there are numerous tutorials online depending on what finish you want). Alternatively you could probably use one of the zinsser primers ( I forget which which one is best!) and then just use normal paint over the top. You could also look for wooden mouldings which you can glue on if you want something different or maybe drape fairy lights or bunting over the top

Shellac bin sealer zinnser, apply one coat without sanding then apply 2 coats of whatever paint you would like the finish to be