Small Kitchen Decorating Solutions

Decorating a small kitchen can seem like a daunting task. With some creativity and smart solutions, even the tiniest cookspace can be personalized into a highly-functional area you're proud to call your own.

From lighting ideas to space-saving storage to appliances, we've got you covered.

Visually Expand the Space

A few simple tweaks can work wonders when it comes to opening up a modest-sized kitchen. Consider installing large tile or wood-look vinyl flooring to achieve the illusion of a more expansive floorplan. Strategically placed mirrors, glossy backsplashes, and glass-front cabinetry also reflect light beautifully. For walls, stick with light, bright paint colors to prevent a closed-in feeling.

a. Flooring

Going with fewer, larger tiles or plank floors guides the eye outward, making the entire kitchen appear bigger. A matching grout color blends seams together seamlessly. Whether you choose natural stone, ceramic, porcelain, or vinyl, opting for a light neutral base shade keeps things airy.

b. Backsplashes and Walls

Mirrors and reflective materials like polished metal, glass tile, and stainless steel backsplashes practically "double" the space. We especially love the look of white subway tiles arranged in eye-catching herringbone patterns. Paint walls in a light cream, airy gray, subtle blue or green. Monochromatic color schemes also maintain an expanded feel.

Build in More Storage

One of the biggest small kitchen challenges is clutter, since horizontal space comes at a premium. Get creative with vertical storage space instead. Mount floor-to-ceiling shelving units or mini prep tables that fold down when not in use. Install racks and rails on walls to neatly store everything from utensils to appliances.

a. Wall Storage

• Mounted wire shelves for cookbooks, plates, mugs
• Spice racks, knife blocks
• Rail systems with S-hooks for pots and pans

b. Cabinet Storage

Remove upper cabinets entirely for an open feel, replacing storage with wall-mounted racks and rails. For lower cabinets, include elements like:

• Pull-out drawer organizers
• Lazy susans in corner spaces
• Slide-out trays, bins, and baskets

c. Multi-Level Countertops

Incorporate different countertop heights for a tiered effect. Shorter surfaces dedicated to microwaves, stand mixers, and other appliances keep the main prep area clutter-free.

Space-Saving Appliances

Standard ovens, stoves, and refrigerators simply occupy too much real estate. Downsize appliances or look into muti-function, portable options better suited for petite kitchens.

a. Combination Appliances

All-in-one units like microwave-convection ovens, cooktop ranges, or induction burner hot plates maximize functionality in a compact footprint. These appliances can neatly tuck away into corners, roll under counters, or store in cabinets.

b. Mini and Slimline Fridges

Full-sized refrigerators are huge space hogs. Opt for narrow, counter depth or mini fridge models to save inches. Just be sure to measure carefully based on individual storage needs.

c. Movable Carts

Portable, customizable utility carts act like extra mobile countertops, providing flexible additional storage and prep space as required. Use them for appliances, food prep, or serving.

Lighting Sets the Mood

Adequate task and ambient lighting keeps a small kitchen inviting 24/7. Bright overheads ensure full visibility for food prep safety. Style statement pendants, sconces and undercabinet lighting add mood-enhancing dazzle on a budget.

a. Undercabinet LEDs

Attaching battery-operated LED lighting strips beneath wall cabinets illuminates countertop work zones beautifully. Kits are very affordable and easy to install.

b. Stylish Pendants

Draw the eye upward and highlight a compact dining or prep area with a dramatic pendant light fixture. Go bold and modern or keep it simple--either makes a spectacular style statement.

c. Natural Light

When possible, incorporate windows, skylights, and glass cabinet doors to fill the space with natural light. Position counters and sinks accordingly to take advantage.

Decor Defines Character

Paint an accent wall or display a vibrant tile backsplash in your favorite hue. Freshen up cabinets with updated hardware like funky knobs or handles. Incorporate bits of personality with framed photos, wallpaper, removable wall stickers and decor.

a. Pops of Color

Bold, contrasting shades wake up an all-neutral scheme. Try a red hue on lower cabinetry against crisp white uppers, or pick out another favorite color highlight.

b. Warm Metallics

Brushed brass and copper finishes bring a cozy, welcoming glow against cooler metals like nickel and stainless steel. Display on pendant lights, fixtures, appliances or accessories.

c. Wallpaper Accents

Lively patterns and prints make excellent backsplashes when covered in glass. Removable wall decals also allow you to refresh periodically.

Harmonious Color Combinations

Two well-paired tones keep the space visually unified. Complementary colors (opposites on the color wheel) offer vibrant contrast. Analogous schemes featuring tints of one hue feel soothing. Neutrals also double beautifully as bold accent colors.

a. Analogous

• Green, blue-green, blue
• Red, red-orange, orange
• Yellow, yellow-orange, yellow-green

b. Complementary

• Red & green
• Orange & blue
• Yellow & purple

c. Neutral & Bold

• White & black
• Gray & yellow
• Beige & teal

Before & After Remodel Inspiration

If a full renovation is in your future, be inspired by stunning small kitchen transformations. Clever layouts, mix-and-match cabinets, built-in storage and modern updates completely re-envision once-dated cookspaces.

a. Space Reconfiguration

Removing walls, changing cabinet footprints and altering room layouts work magic. You'd be amazed what simply shifting around the sink or stove placement accomplishes!

b. Storage Innovations

From cabinetry built around pipes and windows to full-height pantries, discover creative ways homeowners and designers conquered clutter.

c. Style Statement Updates

Two-tone cabinets, fresh paint colors, upgraded countertops and accent walls give tired kitchens new life. Check out beautiful makeovers sure to spark ideas!

Small kitchen decorating means working smarter, not harder. Make every inch count through strategic layouts and compact, multi-use furnishings tailored to the space. Clever solutions transform pint-sized cookspaces into ultra-efficient--and gorgeous-- kitchens.

Ultimately, infuse small kitchens with ample character. After all, these intimate spaces house some of life's greatest moments shared cooking, baking, and conversing over meals with friends and family.