by Karin Becton

Created on: July 30, 2011   Last Updated: July 31, 2011

Adding Character to a Small Kitchen

If you aren't blessed with a big, airy, open kitchen, don't despair! Having a kitchen that is short on space does not mean you have to be short on style. There are many ways to add character to a small kitchen.

Lighting—Proper and adequate lighting is an important part of adding character to a kitchen that is tight on space. You can add warmth and charm to your kitchen by adding a small, interesting chandelier, pendant lights or small decorative lamps on the counter tops or island, if you have the space. Fluorescent light is a good choice for under cabinet lighting. It provides task lighting without adding heat to your workspace. Note: an overhead fluorescent light can give everything a flat, washed-out look. You may want to add some incandescent lights to give your room a glow.

Color—One of the easiest ways to add character to any room is use of color, and the kitchen is no exception. Don't be afraid to use color in a small kitchen. It can transform a staid, boxy kitchen into a charming and inviting area.

A different color for the upper and lower cabinets is unexpected and provides visual interest. Keeping the colors near the same color family (for example, light teal blue for the top cabinets and fresh citrus green for the lower cabinets) can make the area feel more spacious. If you have an island, paint or stain it a different color from the cabinetry to make it stand out.

A light monochromatic color scheme can make a space feel larger, but be sure you add pops of color like tangerine, apple green, or citrus yellow for a fresh feel, or rich colors like teal or cranberry to keep it from being visually boring. Even one or two items like a teakettle or colorful kitchen towels can provide the accent you need.

Storage—One of the biggest complaints of having a small kitchen is not enough storage. Kitchen gadgets and appliances can get out of hand and make the space feel confined. Keeping clutter under control creatively is one way to add character to a small space.

If you have enough space, you can add an island. Be creative—this doesn't have to be an expensive built-in! You can add a rolling kitchen cart, an antique table or a small dinette set (both can double as extra eating space!), a console table, a dresser, or even workbenches or old card catalogs! Longer legs or wheels can be added to make it the right height. Adding an island gives you extra storage and workspace, as well as an interesting focal point.

Removing an upper cabinet door or replacing it with a glass door gives a more open feel to your kitchen, and allows you to display pretty glassware, storage baskets, or dishes without compromising storage space. If you have empty wall space, you can add shelving for bowls, interesting baskets or boxes for added storage without looking cluttered.

Add an overhead pot rack over the island or bar, or a wall mounted pot rack to save cabinet space, and keep cooking pots close at hand. You can get overhead pot racks with lighting if you need it.

Finally, don't forget to add small touches. Attention to little details adds character without overwhelming a small space or breaking your budget. Replace old hardware with decorative knobs, display a pretty plate on a stand, or display fresh flowers in a glass vase or jar tied with a colorful ribbon. Enjoy your small kitchen—make it a part of your house that is full of character and a place to make memories!

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