Gorgeous and Functional Kitchen Decor Ideas That Save Space
Your kitchen probably sees a lot of traffic. It’s also one of the most important places in your home when it comes to hosting guests or family. That’s why you want your kitchen to be as functional and beautiful as you can make it, without sacrificing precious countertop and preparation space. Therefore, we’ve compiled a list of some of the most inspiring yet practical kitchen decor ideas.
Come get inspired by these wide-ranging options, from strategically placed fruit bowls to wall-mounted pot racks to larger projects like kitchen remodels. No matter what kind of kitchen you have, we’re sure you’ll find something that works for your space.
Maximizing Your Kitchen
Organization is key when optimizing your kitchen space. Ensuring you keep areas well-planned and uncluttered can help you create a space where everything has its place and nothing is overcrowded. Not only does this help you keep your kitchen tidy, but it also allows for more room to store items such as food, cookware, utensils, appliances, and even your kitchen soap and sponges.
Finding new and creative ways to store items in your kitchen can be tricky. To save space, consider using smaller furniture pieces like wall-mounted shelves, adjustable shelving, hanging baskets or even a stylish fruit bowl. Utilizing vertical spaces such as above cabinets and on walls can also create additional storage solutions for items you want to keep out of sight.
Countertops and Backsplashes
Material choice plays a large role in determining the cost of new countertops or backsplashes in your kitchen. Granite countertops are often more expensive than tile or other laminate options, but they are more durable. Consider recycled materials like glass or tile. These may come in interesting patterns and colors while still providing a more budget-friendly option.
To make the most of your countertop space, consider what type of material would best suit your needs. If you often cook large meals, consider installing heat-resistant granite countertops that you can clean up easily. For smaller areas such as bars or breakfast nooks, mosaic tiles can add personality while saving cost and space. If you want to make a bold statement with an eye-catching backsplash, try installing unique glass or stone tiles that show off your personality.
Kitchen Furniture
Open shelves can be an excellent way to display favorite cookbooks and dishes while saving storage space. Floating shelves are also great for freeing up countertop space while adding visual interest to your kitchen walls. Installing cupboards with glass fronts allows you to easily see what’s inside while maintaining tidiness by keeping items out of sight when necessary. Alternatively, side cabinets can provide extra storage for items like pots and pans while leaving the countertop clutter-free.
Using multi-functional pieces such as a kitchen island can instantly add extra storage and extra seating when needed. Islands typically also provide added work surface area, which is great for meal-prepping or baking. Add hook racks or a spice rack to the underside of cabinets to increase storage potential while still having everything within reach.
Kitchen Accessories
Wall art is a great way to add character to your kitchen without taking up too much space. Select art pieces with bright colors or inspirational quotes that reflect your style and match the existing décor in your kitchen. For example, try displaying vintage wall plates around a statement artwork piece over an open shelf filled with colorful dishware to add visual interest without sacrificing countertop or shelf space.
You can place decorative pieces like plants or garden sculptures strategically throughout the kitchen to give it a more inviting feel without taking up too much room. Try grouping similarly colored decorative pieces on trays or in tiered displays for an eye-catching display on an open shelf or countertop area. Place whimsical teapots next to an elegant fruit bowl for a modern twist on traditional kitchen art pieces.
Kitchen Lighting
Proper lighting will liven up any kitchen, so research different types of light fixtures that suit your needs. Consider using under-cabinet lighting for task lighting, as it provides bright illumination without taking up any extra space on counters or cabinets. Additionally, if you want a subtle yet stylish accent lighting option, try using LED light strips behind cabinetry or along the room’s crown molding for an even glow across the entire area.
Statement lighting fixtures can also add dimensionality to any kitchen, no matter its size. Chandeliers bring the drama, while pendant lights provide a softer ambiance and direct illumination over specific surfaces in the room, such as islands or bars. Consider using unique fixtures like mason jar lights over sink areas for a rustic touch or colored glass globes over islands for a more contemporary flair.
Conclusion
The kitchen is an important area in any home, but often neglected when it comes to decorating. However, with the right functional decor pieces, you can transform your kitchen into a beautiful and practical space. By taking the time to invest in the right countertop, furniture, lighting and accessories, you can create a kitchen that is both efficient and comfortable to work in. So, take advantage of all the gorgeous and functional kitchen decor ideas here to make the most of your space.
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