Amid the congestion of the fridge and the stove, table and chairs, and hardworking countertops, kitchens usually have little leftover space for decorative touches.
Still, you can add character to this functional room by using the treasures you already have in your home. These easy kitchen decorating ideas for the heart of your home can help.
Arrange cooking utensils in a decorative ceramic vase rather than a plastic holder for a homey touch.
Instead of leaving the sponge and scrubber strewn haphazardly on the countertop, stash them in a small painted pot. To add color to the room, hang bright dish towels from the refrigerator or oven handle.
Freshen the kitchen by placing baskets, bowls, or other decorative containers on a windowsill or countertop near the sink or atop your breakfast table.
Fill them with seasonal accents: gourds in autumn, chestnuts in winter, bright lemons in spring, and limes in summer.
These versatile accents can be interchanged to suit your mood and the season, adding a fresh touch to your kitchen any time of year.
Fresh flowers can also bring a burst of life to your kitchen, and even a bird feeder outside the window can add a pop of color.
Is your kitchen dull? Replace your humdrum cabinet and drawer handles with chrome or brass hardware or colorful plastic fittings for a quick fix.
Paint or stain the cabinets, or the entire room, in a bold new color. It's the quickest and cheapest way to transform your kitchen. And the best part?
If you decide you don't like it, you can easily change the color later, giving you the freedom to experiment and find the perfect look for your kitchen.
And speaking of home decorating quick changes, does your kitchen table take over the room? You should optimally have at least three feet (1m) of passageway between the table and the adjoining walls or appliances.
If your table is too large, replace it with a smaller one. What you'll lose in serving area, you'll gain in mealtime intimacy.
Window coverings are a quick, easy way to alter the look and feel of any room.
There are many styles to choose from - horizontal and vertical blinds, draperies, shades, sheers, shutters, and wood blinds.
Each offers a distinctive look - and price range. Miniblinds are generally the least expensive.
They're an excellent choice for the kitchen as they're easy to wipe clean of dirt and grime and will not be damaged by heat or humidity.
Simple is generally best. If you're looking for fabric draperies, plan to shop around and compare prices and design advice before you sign on the dotted line.
Select a company that offers guaranteed in-home measuring - this will keep you from making costly mistakes.
Most shops have an in-house decorating consultant who can help you find the perfect fabric and style, but the advice—and the prices for the window coverings—will vary from store to store.