If budget wasn’t an issue I would remove the whole lot, skim the wall and buy a new wardrobe and bedside drawers as it’s very dated. However, you may not be prepared to go that far so here are some ideas. I would remove the beading around each door, change the handles, take off the arched shaped inserts from under the cupboards and take away all the little corner shelves. I would remove the mirror from behind the bed and if the sink isn’t used, remove it and that area could be transformed with a table top and stool underneath. I would paint the whole room and the cupboards in white or a neutral colour, definitely not cream and choose bedding that goes with your headboard, if you’re keeping it. I don’t think the current curtains sit well with the headboard but perhaps I’m wrong. I would also have a look at ceiling lights which have matching wall lights.

Sadly, budget is an issue, but yes, I have done another bedroom with a similar unit and removed the whole lot, drylined the wall, and started again. I still miss the storage, but it got rid of a lot of clutter too. This is definitely a need to do job, brought on by dampness, and no money allocated to it. Thanks for your suggestion.

Make it modern minimalist:

1. Change the paint job into neutral tone (use anti-mould paint)

The paint is Dulux Polished Pebble

2. Change the cabinet handle into minimalist style

3. Remove outdated cabinet moulding lines & arch niches

4. Add LED lights its affordable

5. Use this type of headrest since its affordable and easier to clean

6. Rather than another mirror I suggest place artwork on the bedrest wall as focus point

7. Apply Wood-Grain PVC Vinyl Wrap on the cabinet

so it looks like wood and make the cabinet become moisture resistant

If you dont need sink in the bedroom transform it into desk or vanity

Thank you both so much - love the ideas. This won't be the big renovation (this year anyway), as carpet needs to be replaced, and if I remove the units it also means getting a new radiator - the old one is just huge! Initially, it will be paint, but if I was left on my own for an hour, that moulding and dated handles could miraculously disappear.

That is so lovely - I love the visual reworking, and immediately see the value of changing the knobs and curtains. I really appreciated people taking time out to respond. The problem damp issue is not behind the units (but it's likely there too), but under the window and that has been replastered now, and the dehumidifier is in use. What kind of top lighting is that over the headboard?

That would be led strip lighting

I have to agree with what was mentioned here, I would remove the whole lot. Although this pic with a green wall looks really nice.

As original poster, I totally agree. However, it's not as simple as that. This damp issue is under the window, and it's got sorted now. Certainly the longer term aim is to get rid of the units completely, and redo, but that's a big ticket item well beyond funds at the minute. Even removing the units, getting in electrician to remove and redo the lighting, getting a plumber to remove and blank sink, and replace radiator, removing the carpet and replacing with laminate flooring, removing the curtains and curtain pole, drylining the exterior wall, hiring a skip for the waste...... we know, as we've done this on two previous rooms. So in the interim it's just a cosmetic job. Thanks everyone for your comments, and your images. The big job is on the "to-do" list, but just not yet.

Since you’re keeping the cabinetry and headboard for now, I think lighting could actually be one of the easiest ways to make the room feel more considered without spending heavily on the temporary makeover.

I’d look for a relatively compact glass ceiling light with some character rather than anything very large or ornate. Something Murano-inspired in warm amber, smoky or softly tinted glass could work particularly well with the cream cabinetry, burgundy headboard and brown carpet. It would introduce warmth and interest without making the room feel feminine or overly formal.

I’d also choose warm bulbs rather than cool white light — I think that will make a surprisingly big difference with the existing colours.

I recently included a Murano-style glass chandelier in a video about five timeless luxury pieces. The one in the video is more of a statement piece, but the glass, colour and overall idea could be useful inspiration when looking for a smaller fitting for this bedroom:
https://youtu.be/PoZYuVMbVXQ