Warm white would go very well

I love dark shades but from my experience oil stains on a dark shaded cabinets in kitchen specifically are more prominent.

Not necessary to use only paint for the change. There are different applications like wall papers, textured particle board, wooden panels etc. It actually depends on who is using the room. For the changed looks, go for wall paper on one wall and color selection as per the age of the user.

The living room window itself does not appear to be designed to let much light through. Please show a photo of that window, also of what lies outside the window. In the meantime, I suggest that you replace the builder-installed window with one of your own choosing. Use toughened glass rather than this heavy grill. Minimise the frame, if possible, particularly if there will not be much air coming through. If there is the potential of air but not much view, then have a sliding or bifold window that maximises the opening. On the blank wall outside, if that's your view, put up a green wall, creeper, something to improve the outlook. For nighttime viewing, add mild uplights in a natural white shade, focused on the greenery. Or else, you may be able to put up a reflective surface on the facing wall, to bounce in more of whatever light there is. Such as a coloured glass mural if not a plain mirror. Once you have maximised your window, move on to the wall to the right of your living room photo. That is, the wall that your living room shares with the west bedroom. Use a very large mirror on that wall to expand your living room visually and to bounce more light around. To cut down on expense/effort you can make it out of several standard-size sheets rather than one giant sheet. However, if that wall is to be covered with storage, make sure the front surface of the cabinetry is fairly light-coloured and reflective. Last, if not yet satisfied, consult a lighting expert for this room. That would be useful. These are fairly expensive solutions, all in all, but they should help.