Kitchen + Dining

Use light and bright colors. Light colors have a visually expanding effect, making a space feel larger. Opt for white, cream, or pastel shades for your kitchen walls, cabinets, and countertops. Light-colored flooring can also contribute to the illusion of a bigger space.

Maximize natural and artificial lighting. Good lighting is essential in creating an open and airy atmosphere. Maximize natural light by keeping windows uncovered or using sheer curtains. Additionally, incorporate different types of artificial lighting, including recessed lights, pendant lights, and under-cabinet lighting. Well-lit countertops and workspaces can make the kitchen feel more spacious and inviting.

Optimize storage solutions. Clutter can make a kitchen feel cramped and small. To maximize your storage space, invest in cabinets that reach the ceiling, allowing you to utilize vertical space effectively. Consider incorporating pull-out shelves, organizers, and dividers within cabinets and drawers to keep everything organized and easily accessible. Removing unnecessary items and keeping countertops clear will also contribute to a more spacious feel.

Choose reflective surfaces. Reflective surfaces, such as glass, mirrored backsplashes, and glossy countertops, can create an illusion of depth and make the kitchen appear larger. Consider using a glass or mirrored backsplash, and choose countertops with a glossy finish. These surfaces will reflect light and create a more expansive feel.

Open shelving or glass-front cabinets. Replace some of your upper cabinets with open shelves or glass-front cabinets. This can visually open up the space and provide a sense of depth. Display attractive dishes, glassware, or cookware on these shelves to add style and personality to your kitchen.

Opt for streamlined and multifunctional furniture. Choose furniture that is functional and space-saving. Consider a kitchen island with built-in storage or a pull-out dining table that can be tucked away when not in use. Utilize wall-mounted or foldable furniture to free up floor space. Selecting furniture with clean lines and minimalistic designs can contribute to a more open and spacious feel.

Maintain a clutter-free and organized kitchen. Keep countertops clear of unnecessary items and appliances. Minimize visual clutter by storing small appliances inside cabinets or dedicating a specific space for them. Adopt organizational strategies like labeled containers, hanging racks, and drawer dividers to keep everything in its place.

By implementing these tips, you can create a kitchen that feels more open and spacious while maximizing its functionality for cooking and entertaining.

Styling your dining room table can enhance the overall look and create an inviting atmosphere. Here are some tips to help you style your dining room table:

Start with a tablecloth or runner. Choose a tablecloth or runner that complements the style and color scheme of your dining room. It can be a solid color, patterned, or textured fabric. Make sure it fits the size of your table and hangs evenly on all sides.

Create a focal point with a centerpiece. This can be a floral arrangement, a vase filled with fresh or artificial flowers, a bowl of decorative items, or a statement piece like a sculptural object. Ensure that the centerpiece doesn't obstruct sightlines for conversation across the table.

Set the table with appropriate place settings for each seat. Include dinner plates, salad plates, napkins, and silverware. Use charger plates or placemats to add a layer of texture or color to each setting. Consider using cloth napkins for an elegant touch.

Arrange glassware and stemware at each place setting. Include water glasses, wine glasses, or other beverage-specific glasses. If you have a bar cart or sideboard nearby, you can also display additional glassware options.

Incorporate personal touches that reflect your style or the occasion. This could include place cards, name tags, or small favors for guests. You can also use decorative elements like seasonal ornaments, small plants, or themed decor that aligns with a specific event or celebration.

Take into account the shape and size of your dining table when styling. For round tables, consider a circular centerpiece or an arrangement that follows the table's shape. Rectangular tables may benefit from a long centerpiece or multiple smaller arrangements placed down the center.

Remember to keep the overall style cohesive with the rest of your dining room decor. Experiment with different arrangements and elements until you achieve a look that suits your personal taste and the occasion at hand.

Open shelving can be a great idea for certain kitchen designs and lifestyles, but it also has its considerations. Here are some pros and cons to help you decide if open shelving is right for you:

Pros of open shelving:

Visual appeal: Open shelving creates an open and airy feel, making the kitchen appear more spacious. It allows you to display attractive dishes, glassware, and other kitchen items, adding a decorative element to your space.

Easy access: With open shelves, your frequently used items are within easy reach. It eliminates the need to open and close cabinet doors, making it convenient for everyday use.

Sense of openness: Open shelves can create a sense of depth and openness, especially when placed against a visually appealing backsplash or wall. This can be particularly useful in smaller kitchens or those with limited natural light.

Display and personalization: Open shelves provide an opportunity to showcase your personality and style. You can curate a collection of beautiful dishes, cookbooks, and decorative items that reflect your taste and add character to your kitchen.

Cons of open shelving:

Dust and maintenance: Open shelves are more susceptible to dust, grease, and kitchen debris compared to closed cabinets. Regular cleaning and maintenance are required to keep them looking neat and organized.

Limited storage and organization: Unlike closed cabinets, open shelves don't provide concealed storage. This can be a drawback if you have a lot of items to store or if you prefer a clutter-free look. It also requires careful organization to maintain a visually appealing display.

Exposed items: Since everything is on display, you need to ensure that the items you choose to display on open shelves are aesthetically pleasing and well-coordinated. This may involve careful styling and arranging to avoid a cluttered or haphazard appearance.

Potential for breakage: Without cabinet doors to protect them, items on open shelves are more exposed to accidental breakage, especially in a busy kitchen or with children or pets around. You'll need to consider this when selecting what items to place on the shelves.

Ultimately, the decision to have open shelving in your kitchen depends on your personal preferences, organizational habits, and lifestyle. Consider the pros and cons, as well as the overall design and functionality of your kitchen, to determine if open shelving is a good fit for you.