Easy Kitchen Updates

Kitchens are one of the most important rooms in a home and often the most neglected when it comes to design.  If remodeling isn't in your budget, here are a few ideas to bring some style into your kitchen. Most cabinets are painted white or stained, so adding some color is a great way to personalize your kitchen and this can be done a number of easy ways. I understand that many of us have some appliances out on the counters, but if you can store what you don't use every day that gives you some much needed space for a few colorful accessories. Those could be canisters, a utensil holder or even an open cookbook in a stand. I also love displaying colorful plates on the counters, especially in the corners.

Another way to bring some style to your kitchen is with a rug. If you have the floor space, use one large rug instead of lots of small ones. Outdoor rugs are great for kitchens as they are easy to clean in case of spills. Rugs provide warmth and texture, but also can cover up a floor that you may not like.  Do you have a window? Then add a fabric treatment. Either a simple valance or a roman shade works well in a kitchen. I also love the traditional style of cafe curtains. Coordinate the fabric with other colors you are using and don't be afraid of a little pattern. I used a floral design in this kitchen and I love how many colors it has.

If you are fortunate enough to have glass front cabinets, then you can't pass up the opportunity to showcase some colorful dishes and glassware. I usually style these cabinets so the bottom shelf is more functional by stacking dishes or bowls, then I use all the pretty things on the upper shelves. You might even consider painting the back of these cabinets a different color for even more contrast like we did in these.

Whether it's the kitchen or another room in your home; the key to any well designed room is using things that make you happy.