Ideas for Decorating Your Kitchen

Home Decor

©Knight Photography Adding an island is a fantastic way to increase workspace in the kitchen.

A kitchen is a place where memories are created. It’s where you celebrate your child’s achievement, make an announcement, or just enjoy a cup of tea. Therefore, a functional and appealing kitchen is one of the top-selling features of a home, and it’s a pleasure for everyone who uses it.

A good layout is crucial to accommodate the flow of family and friends. There should be well-defined traffic routes and a zone where the chef can operate without disruption. Factors such as the number of people cooking at one time, the age of children, and the special needs of family members should all be taken into account.

There are four basic kitchen layouts: the galley shape with two walls of appliances facing each other, the L-shape that places the three main elements (sink, stove, and refrigerator) along two perpendicular walls forming a natural triangle, the U-shape that places the elements on three walls, and the G-shape, which is a U-shape with an additional wall (which could be a peninsula) to provide more counter space, cabinetry, and appliances.

For efficiency, consider the classic work triangle formula according to how it coincides with the configuration you choose. Two work areas—one for cooking and the other for serving and clearing up, each with a sink—are also a popular strategy.

This article will explore a variety of kitchen decorating styles, including:

Cultivating a Vintage Look

There are many new options for older homes when it comes to redecorating a kitchen. Cabinetry, appliances, and wall coverings with vintage flair allow you to create a new kitchen with a custom vintage feeling to maintain the look and feel of your classic home.

Using Bold Colors

Use bold colors to make a statement in your kitchen, but choose and integrate them wisely so that they have the greatest impact.

Integrating Wood in Kitchen Decor

Rely on wood’s natural texture, look, and feel to give your room a bright and clean appearance.

Southwestern Styling

Bold color styling techniques used in the open kitchens of New Mexico create a warm look and feel for your kitchen.

Comfortably Casual

Kitchen decor that welcomes guests and provides a sense of coziness to family members is an essential element of any home. Learn how to add an element of comfort to your kitchen.

Clean and Neat

Creating ample storage while maintaining an open look and feel can be challenging. Get tips to streamline your design and maximize storage in your kitchen.

Stainless Steel Ideas

Stainless steel is an extremely popular choice for appliances, but there are other ways to incorporate it into the look of your kitchen. Find creative ideas to use stainless steel in your kitchen.

Restaurant Styling

Want a kitchen that’s as elegant and functional as an upscale eatery? Use this contemporary kitchen to get ideas for adding an element of sophistication to your own kitchen.

The Vintage Look

Looking for inspiration on how to add vintage character to your kitchen? This kitchen offers a perfect mix of updated and authentic vintage details. If you’re looking for a kitchen with everything in its place, the Chef’s Kitchen is the perfect example. It offers storage for every appliance, tool, and utensil. Adding a dash of color can give your kitchen a lively personality boost. Modern kitchens offer plenty of options for organizing and keeping a clean look, including clever interior fittings for silverware and appliance garages. For a more traditional appeal, go for cherry- or mahogany-paneled and glass-front doors. Contemporary kitchens often feature blonde wood, laminate, metal, and new options like mesh inset panels. Be creative in finding extra space for your kitchen, such as extending the counter or adding pullout work surfaces. Glass-door cabinets and French doors can help bounce light around and make your kitchen feel brighter. White appliances are still the most popular, but black and stainless steel are also great options. To give your contemporary kitchen a vintage twist, check out the next section for some decorating tips.

For more ideas and advice on decorating your home, visit:

• Decorating Ideas
• Dining Room Decorating Ideas
• Bedroom Decorating Ideas
• Bathroom Decorating Ideas
• Home Office Decorating Ideas
• Decorate Home Spaces Ideas
• Interior Decorating
• Home Decorating Tips
• How to Design a Kitchen

Cultivating a Vintage Kitchen Look

Who said old and new can’t be combined? Merge the best aspects of the past with modern amenities to create a kitchen that will impress your neighbors.

In this stunning New Mexico kitchen, the white painted cabinets, stainless-steel countertops, and geometric range hood give a contemporary feel while the charming island, which looks like an antique farmhouse table, adds a touch of vintage style. The bin pulls and low-key wood counter around the auxiliary sink also maintain the vintage feel of the kitchen.

The warm brick floor and ceiling beams contribute to the traditional atmosphere, but the room doesn’t feel outdated with ruffled curtains and pot holders. Every piece of equipment has its own designated space while the chef has plenty of room to work with. It’s a mix of vintage and modern that works well for those who enjoy both.

If you want to add some vibrancy to your kitchen, bold colors are the way to go. Check out the next section for some decorating tips on how to incorporate bold colors without overwhelming the room.

For more ideas and advice on decorating your home, visit:

• Decorating Ideas
• Dining Room Decorating Ideas
• Bedroom Decorating Ideas
• Bathroom Decorating Ideas
• Home Office Decorating Ideas
• Decorate Home Spaces Ideas
• Interior Decorating
• Home Decorating Tips
• How to Design a Kitchen

Using Bold Colors in Kitchen

This kitchen was given a new lease of life with an additional six feet of space. Wooden beams add to the warm and welcoming atmosphere. The new design incorporates vibrant colors such as cobalt blue, turquoise, red, purple, and cantaloupe, while maintaining the modern essence of a New Mexico home. Against stainless-steel appliances, these retro colors make for a unique and exciting kitchen.

The generous-size island with its confetti-sprinkled top is perfect for socializing or grabbing a quick bite. Storage is situated around the room, keeping it tidy. The stunning colors make the room charismatic and endearing to its visitors, making them want to stay longer.

©Knight Photography The broad island provides storage and a workspace, as well as space for a sink.

If you want to give your kitchen a more natural look, consider adding decorative wood. The next section offers advice on how to incorporate wood into your kitchen decor.

To find more decorating ideas, as well as tips and information on decorating your home, visit:

• Decorating Ideas
• Dining Room Decorating Ideas
• Bedroom Decorating Ideas
• Bathroom Decorating Ideas
• Home Office Decorating Ideas
• Decorate Home Spaces Ideas
• Interior Decorating
• Home Decorating Tips
• How to Design a Kitchen

Incorporating Wood into Your Kitchen Decor

©Michael Blevins The simple, unadorned wood stove hood is effective in its simplicity.

Knotty pine cabinetry with dark molding, reminiscent of the Shaker style, creates a homey feel in the kitchen of a spacious house with barn-like proportions. The pine doors, along with their simple black wrought-iron pulls and knobs, combined with a wood ceiling overhead and a wooden floor, provide an updated traditional country charm without being overly cute.

The gleaming commercial-style stove is highlighted by an earthy-hued back-splash of oversize tiles and a set of glass-front cabinets. However, other appliances, such as the refrigerator, are hidden behind matching panels.

The well-planned island enhances the kitchen’s appeal and provides a work zone that doesn’t obstruct traffic at either end. To avoid monotony, the counter’s front is wainscoted and painted green to match the cabinet trim. Another thoughtful touch is the raised height of the counter, concealing a lower counter and sink where dirty dishes can be placed.

©Michael Blevins The desk area uses the same knotty pine cabinetry as the rest of the kitchen.

In the next section, we’ll show you photos of a bright Santa Fe kitchen and tell you how to incorporate Southwestern details into your own kitchen.

To find more decorating ideas, as well as tips and information on decorating your home, visit:

• Decorating Ideas
• Dining Room Decorating Ideas
• Bedroom Decorating Ideas
• Bathroom Decorating Ideas
• Home Office Decorating Ideas
• Decorate Home Spaces Ideas
• Interior Decorating
• Home Decorating Tips
• How to Design a Kitchen

Southwestern Kitchen Style

©Knight Photography The island’s rich green legs complement the hutch.

You would know you were in the Southwest just by looking at the rough-hewn timbers and plaster ceiling above in this sunny kitchen located in Santa Fe, New Mexico. However, strong Arts and Crafts undertones are also present.

The room is simple and unadorned so that the workmanship and elements can stand out. The two-level island serves as a sitting spot and workspace, while the microwave is placed for easy access for children to make a snack. The granite top and auxiliary sink are an everyday benefit for preparing and cooking.

The slender furniture-style legs make the island unique. Painted in a rich deep green, they complement the tall green hutch that guards the door. The hutch reduces the modernity of the hard-edged granite and stainless steel. The natural red birch floor brings all the elements together harmoniously.

Looking for a cozy and comfortable kitchen that exudes a down-to-earth vibe? Check out the decorating tips in the following section. For more decorating ideas, as well as tips and information on decorating your home, visit the links listed below.

If you prefer a traditional and homey atmosphere, the Comfortably Casual Kitchen may be just what you need. The room is filled with bright colors and traditional cabinetry, while most of the appliances stay hidden behind matching panels. With a mini-breakfast bar, a comfy window seat, and interesting nooks and corners, this is the perfect place for nurturing. It connects to an elegant great room with a fireplace, but the two spaces have vastly different personalities. This inviting kitchen is perfect for cocktails and hot chocolate with marshmallows.

If you’re looking for a more streamlined and practical kitchen, the Clean and Neat Kitchen may be the right choice for you. With utilitarian steel shelving combined with contemporary flat-front cabinetry, this kitchen was designed to be tidy and practical. The steel shelves house the microwave and less frequently used pieces, while the cabinets keep everyday necessities and food supplies close at hand. Stainless-steel storage units are convenient and easy to install, and cookbooks can be filed on top of the cabinets for quick reference. The cook has a choice of where to work, with counter space provided on both sides of the narrow room. When more space is needed for a project, the durable table can be used as a work surface.

The appliances in the room were chosen based on the colors of white, cream, and gray rather than matching models. Despite the different colors, they are placed where they are convenient. A painting sets the colors in motion. The kitchen has a refrigerator, stainless-steel range, and sink. There is also a small dining table and chairs for meals or alfresco dining. Stainless steel is used for the shelving, stove, and back-splash. Inspiration for using stainless steel in decorating can be found in the next section. The bones of the California kitchen were fine, but it lacked personality. After a remodel with wood cabinets and stainless-steel appliances, it now has a fresh look. The professional range and ample counter space make it a great cooking space. The stainless-steel-top dining table can seat a dozen guests. The kitchen has a modern look with minimal decoration and a wall clock. The upper cabinets have glass doors to enhance the light. The combination of black counters and unadorned wood gives this kitchen a restaurant-style look.

If you want a high-quality room, try using curves instead of corners and creating a circular counter. Use plush, modern seats with bold colors like purple, red, or gold instead of country stools. Eliminate hardware in the cooking area and replace curtains with glass-block windows and vertical blinds on glass doors. A peninsula of cabinets provides both storage and counter space. The stone tile with different colors and gradations adds extra character. For a vintage look, try white brick tiles in the kitchen. The deep farmhouse sink and restored cooking range maintain the classic feel while still being practical. The breakfast room has a cozy banquette and upholstered walls with crisscross ribbons for photographs.

For more home decorating ideas, tips, and information, check out the following categories: Decorating Ideas, Dining Room Decorating Ideas, Bedroom Decorating Ideas, Bathroom Decorating Ideas, Home Office Decorating Ideas, Decorate Home Spaces Ideas, Interior Decorating, Home Decorating Tips, and How to Design a Kitchen.

Chef’s Kitchen

This bright white kitchen is the perfect space for any gourmet chef. The white cabinetry and brick tiles create an open and clean environment that is ideal for cooking. With plenty of counter space and a large, sturdy table that can be used as a work surface or a dining area, this kitchen is perfect for preparing both intimate dinners and large feasts. Additionally, the well-lit counter to the right of the table is perfect for use as a serving station and bar, with a second sink located there to prevent guests from lining up at the main sink.

The stainless steel cabinets on either side of the range are stocked with the chef’s favorite spices and oils, ensuring that everything he needs is within easy reach. The deep drawers below the counters slide out to reveal pots, pans, and lids, while smaller drawers hold cooking utensils. The room remains organized despite its size, with simple hardware and a wood floor contributing to its timeless appeal.

Single Color Kitchen Decor

Blue tiles reminiscent of the Mediterranean sea transform a small city kitchen into a dramatic space. Choosing the same color tiles for the walls and floor, and pairing them with a plain white ceiling, creates a striking effect that accentuates the white cabinets and appliances. The plain-front Euro-style cabinets are anything but ordinary, with two clear fronts that break up the uniformity.

The little island in the center of the kitchen provides a dainty yet accessible work area for the cook, with pullout drawers for table utensils and linens. A pair of stools and a small granite counter offer the perfect space for a shared moment.

Utilizing the available space, a cozy eating area has been created.

Located in a corner and away from any danger, the calm setting of a sizable breakfast table and four chairs can be found. Glass doors, that collect light, have touches of blue and yellow to complement the kitchen’s blue color scheme, while the black table and chairs mirror the tile’s dark grout lines.

The soffits have been intelligently designed to direct light to the appropriate areas so no one is left in the dark. To preserve the uncluttered appearance, a basic white blind adorns the kitchen window.

The decorating tips presented in this article can be used to transform your kitchen into the room of your dreams, whether you prefer a casual, vintage, colorful, wooden, or Southwestern style. Utilize the tips provided or mix and match them to create your own unique kitchen style.

For more decorating ideas, as well as tips and information on decorating your home, please visit:

• Decorating Ideas
• Dining Room Decorating Ideas
• Bedroom Decorating Ideas
• Bathroom Decorating Ideas
• Home Office Decorating Ideas
• Decorate Home Spaces Ideas
• Interior Decorating
• Home Decorating Tips
• How to Design a Kitchen

FAQ

1. What are some simple kitchen decorating ideas?

Some simple kitchen decorating ideas include adding a fresh coat of paint to the walls or cabinets, installing new hardware on cabinets and drawers, adding a colorful rug or curtains, and displaying decorative dishes or cookbooks on open shelves. These small updates can make a big difference in the overall look and feel of your kitchen.

2. How can I make my small kitchen look bigger?

To make a small kitchen look bigger, you can paint the walls and cabinets a light color, install open shelves instead of upper cabinets, use reflective surfaces like mirrors or glass tiles, and choose a streamlined design for appliances and furniture. These tricks can create the illusion of more space and make your kitchen feel brighter and more open.

3. What are some popular kitchen color schemes?

Popular kitchen color schemes include neutral shades like white, beige, and gray, as well as bold hues like navy blue, emerald green, and deep red. You can also incorporate accent colors through accessories and decor, such as a bright yellow tea kettle or a red kitchen rug.

4. How can I add storage to my kitchen?

You can add storage to your kitchen by installing shelves or cabinets on empty walls, using a rolling cart or island for additional counter space and storage, and hanging pots and pans from a ceiling rack. You can also use drawer dividers and organizers to maximize the space inside your cabinets and drawers.

5. What are some trendy kitchen decor ideas?

Some trendy kitchen decor ideas include using patterned tiles for a backsplash, mixing and matching cabinet colors and materials, incorporating natural elements like wood and stone, and using vintage or industrial-inspired lighting fixtures. You can also experiment with bold patterns and textures, such as a chevron rug or a textured wallpaper.

6. How can I make my kitchen more eco-friendly?

You can make your kitchen more eco-friendly by using energy-efficient appliances, opting for reusable containers and bags instead of single-use plastics, composting food scraps, and using non-toxic cleaning products. You can also choose sustainable materials for your countertops and flooring, such as bamboo or recycled glass. Making small changes in your kitchen can have a big impact on the environment.