I have a modern and traditional decor in my house. The living, dining and kitchen are in one open area. I have two choices for re-doing cabinets.
1/ Pay $2800 to have existing cabinets painted white with new barrel hinges (exposed type) in satin nickel with same for knobs.
2/ Pay $5600 and have new door and drawers in shaker style made of alder or poplar wood with the middle section made of plywood with european hinges. Everything then will be painted white.

Is exposed hinges outdated in a kitchen or would new satin nickel barrel hinges be nice?

Is the alder/poplar wood that will be used for painting nice?

Also, is the shaker with the bead a contemporary style or just shaker.

Please advise. I live in Southern CA so the prices are nice and high.

You say you have both modern and traditional decor in your house, so you probably want a transitional look that will work with both.

What is your current door style?

Alder is very nice--I haven't seen poplar used for cabinets.

Shaker doors are NOT beaded. Beading is a more traditional or country look.