You've got the two polar extremes of Value which are black and white which are quite 'unnatural' but also visually jarring. In addition, black and white mix together to create grey, a total absence of visual warmth. In my opinion, the fixer for this would be an intermediate wall colour to lessen the jarring and some warmth. I would also use texture and natural materials to create some contrast.

I would choose a warmish neutral colour for the whole space and then parhaps create a visual distraction on the pink wall by painting a very deep warm colour. I would then replace the shelves with two full width oak shelves with oak brackets. I would echo the wood shelves with a huge natural sisal rug in the dining area. None of this would be too pricey but I think it could make it feel more homely. I did this in my last kitchen and painted one wall Deep Bronze Green to inject some interest.

LIghting is also key, if you have cool LEDs' or even just cheap LED's they can be a killer. The best I'e found are Collingwood Deco.

https://www.collingwoodlighting.com/product/h2-deco-csp/

Hi! Thank you very much for your quick and very useful answer already! !

We are really new at this, and can use all the help we can get :)

Do you have any recommendations for specific paint colours?
So if I understand correctly you would do an intermediate/warmer paint on all the walls (including ceilings?), instead of the now very white walls? You mean just broken white/beige, or what’s your recommendation?
And just the 1 wall (that is now pink) in a deep/darker colour?

We were already planning on putting full width wooden shelfs, so that’s good!
Do you think shelfs in ‘smoked oak’, so dark wood might also work? Or you recommend normal lighter oak?
Would you add lightning strips underneath them, or just some smaller lights standing on their own?

I think it’s a nice kitchen, it just needs accessorising.

You could also consider just 1 shelf (wood colour dependant on table/chairs). I cant find a good image but think if you want art, large chopping boards etc so what height works best for accessories. A table lamp as Juliet had would look nice on the counter. I’m not sure if you’re actually in France but I’ve got a rechargeable one with a linen shade from The White Company. Do you literally just have that 1 light? You could also add angled wall lights above the shelf and a pendant over the table.

A jute etc runner would help add texture and break the contrast

Your door/window looks french grey so I’d go for something in that family for the back wall colour with maybe lime white on the walls (last pic). I’d keep the ceiling the same colour so it feels likes one space. Is it currently grey as it looks darker than the walls? I’d probably just use the bins outside and use that little niche by the door for a faux olive tree, again, in a natural fibre basket

I don’t know your style but think about texture for accessories. There are loads of stoneware items around, fluted plates etc and definitely some wood

I would also add, I actually think it's a great kitchen as it's got a classic look. it just needs some warmth. I agree with Minnie that the window colour is going to be part of the scheme. Is it a 'warm' grey do you think?

If you only got one light source in kitchen at the moment get some lamps, that is the easiest way to add warmth. Plants, lamps and some pale natural materials is the quickest way to add some interest.

I lived with a kitchen like this (below) for a year in our last house (it came with some furry friends). I actually preferred it when we ripped it out! You'll get there.

Replace shelves with one long oak shelf. Paint kitchen one colour possibly continue into lounge. Here are some examples with F&B Green Smoke and Studio Green.

Hello,

I agree with the chorus of comments about repalcing the two shelves with one/two longer ones - exposed brackets are the way to go here - they will add more detail and interest to the whole set-up.

You could also get some kind of wall cabinet there if you need more storage; what about two or three industrial style glased units in the middle of the wall? This would make the whole space feel more furnished/designed.

I would strongly advice you to consider paiting the existing kitchen units. They are glossy so prep is everything.Alternatively you could look out for your local kitchen sprey paiting company and asking how much would it be.

If you're paiting the units I think green in a darker shade than the windows would look good. Alternatively you could try muted shades of red or yellow to instantly warm up the space.

Hope this helps :)

Jarek

www.studiomoodetc.com