KITCHEN
Not just a place to cook, the kitchen is one of the most used rooms in the house. If yours needs updating, here are some professional tips for making the most of your space. Try these easy tricks to update with color or make a small kitchen feel larger
How can I make my cluttered kitchen look more organized?
Not just a place to cook, the kitchen is one of the most used rooms in the house. If yours needs updating, here are some professional tips for making the most of your space. Try these easy tricks to update with color or make a small kitchen feel larger — home-decorating expert Lauri Ward”s how-to”s will help you create a kitchen you love without spending a lot of money..
How can I create an eating area in my small kitchen?
Many stores and catalogs sell small, counter-height eating “bars.” Most of these come in lots of wood finishes and with matching stools (with or without backs). Coordinate the finish and stool style you choose with the style of your kitchen and cabinets. If your kitchen is especially small, look for a set that comes with a round table, which will allow for a better traffic flow. Another option is to purchase a pair of folding or small armless chairs and a drop-leaf shelf that can be propped open when you need it.
How can I give the room a new look without spending a lot?
One quick way to transform your kitchen without a major renovation is to change the hardware on your cabinets. New knobs or handles will give the space an easy update without your having to invest a lot of time or money. Take one of the existing knobs or handles with you when you go shopping so that you are sure that you”re getting replacements in the right size. If you”re in a rental, keep the old hardware so that when you move, you can put it back on and take the newer handles with you.
What kind of kitchen stools will work best for my family?
Stools that are safe and easy to clean are ideal choices for families with children. Stools with backs will not only prevent toddlers from falling but will also be more comfortable for older family members. Most counter-height stools are 24 to 26 inches high, while barstools are slightly higher, at 29 to 30 inches. There are many wood, metal and leather styles available. Whichever you choose, make sure that the stools do not have pointed corners where children can hurt themselves.
How do I choose the right colors for my kitchen?
Many kitchens have elements of color even before paint or other accents have been introduced. Stainless appliances are silver or gray, many small and large appliances have black accents, and tile floors may introduce orange, rust or white into the room. The color of your countertops should also be considered. For example, granite countertops usually have several different accent colors that can be used to establish your entire color scheme. Factor the existing colors into the equation when you are planning your new decor. No matter which colors you opt for, use no more than four, including the finishes of your appliances and flooring material.
What kind of blinds will give both privacy and sunlight?
Leated or bamboo matchstick shades are practical for kitchens because neither style collects kitchen grease. Both will give the room a light and airy look. Consider getting shades with a top-down feature, which will allow you to drop the top of the shade and leave the bottom in place. This will give you the privacy you desire, and you”ll still be able to see the sky and the tops of trees.
How can I keep water spots from messing up my floor?
Prevent water spots on your floor by purchasing a small black rubber mat for the area in front of the sink. These mats come in various shapes and sizes and can be found in most housewares stores. I like the ones that look like welcome mats without the “welcome” on them, for their simplicity. Avoid cotton rugs, which can be slippery, or rugs with busy patterns, which can make your kitchen look chaotic.
