I'd take the base off and replace it something solid. You may only need to take the front piece off, trim the edges of the side pieces and fit another front piece to it that is flush with the cabinet - not sticking out to be flush with the drawers (like it is now).
The hardware ... ich.
To make it more modern looking (to match your decor) you might consider refinishing the drawers in one color and the remainder of the cabinet in another. Perhaps a very dark cabinet housing with almost bleached drawers, finished with a crisp brushed steel or black hardware that has simple lines to it.