As much as I like wood, I think you have too much in that area. You don't mention a budget limit, but to modernize the look, I would recommend replacing any louvered doors with solid doors. Painting the pantry's wood, trim, doors and your cabinets a color would lend it an updated look.

I would consider something light with some other colors to mix in like this. http://t.homedepot.com/p/Silestone-2-in-Quartz-Countertop-Sample-in-Mont-Blanc-SS-Q0220/203674451/ I like the wood paneling and would paint it a white with a warm feel to it. A white will reflect a lot of light from your large window. I wouldn't paint the window casing as it might tie in better with the rest of the house. Good luck!!

Thanks courtney. it's all finished and we love it. We chose a white glass back splash which really helps to brighten up the space. On a sunny day it's so bright I pull the blinds down lol! the photo looks alot colder than it is too. It's taken on my phone so not the best.

Thanks Robandlyn. The house in presently under renovation, and the kitchen cabinets need to be painted as well. The rest of the walls are in a cream tone, hence I decided on earthy tone. Attached is a picture of the splash back colour, which might help with chosing the cabinet colours as well.