Hi, I would paint it with chalk paint, no sanding ( I use Annie Sloan - not available at Bunnings ) have a look at purple lady painting tip page, the best I have read. I use the soft clear wax to seal. I really like the depth of the paint. You could leave the bench wood or replace, I wouldn't use chalk paint on bench top, or any other paint. Chalk paint is expensive but saves priming and sanding so maybe more comparable when you do that sum. Changing the knobs will give a revamp as well. If you do choose an Annie Sloan paint and want white use the antique white, it has much better coverage than the pure white. I buy the paint on line as my nearest stockist is 160 kms from where I live. I use correct brushes as well, very expensive but I do take very good care of them, I was them out in softly and gently scrub down the bristles with a soft scrubbing brush

Hi there, I would be thinking to go for white cabinets and walls,with white appliances that you plan on Keeping or can change to stainless, your choice of benchtop. as this picture shows the timber door frames etc will then fit, White cream and timber should blend in with the floor tiles, maybe even the blinds will look ok, photos help

I agree the above suggestions are perfect for this very modern and edgy duplex. Does the artist's rendition reflect the colours and/or materials you plan to use on the exterior: black, white, grey (brick or concrete) and timber? If so, some continuity of colour and material (timber) for your interior will keep it a cohesive and beautiful. You mentioned polished concrete floors. May I ask what colour they will be, if they will have aggregate or not? Which timber do you plan to use as cladding for eaves and front decking/porch? I ask because you may wish to use the same in parts of your interior. i agree white is good interior wall colour. I really like the idea of white cabinetry in kitchen with a dark base cabinet in island bench (if you plan to have one). There are good photos in Houzz to show how this looks. what material do you want for benchtops and vanities? your project is very interesting, Wilson!

I would probably avoid a timber benchtop with a spotted gum floor. Often timber benchtops don't age gracefully, especially around sinks, over time, and need more love and maintenance. I would let the floor be the feature and go with a plainer, more neutral benchtop, perhaps in a reconstituted stone, such as Ceaserstone, that will work with your cabinetwork. If you must have a timber benchtop then consider it on an island bench (without a sink or stovetop), and use a reconstituted stone benchtop for the sink and stove area. Best of luck, Dr Retro of Dr Retro House Calls