Our kitchens have long been the center of our homes. Many of us have happy memories of the wonderful aromas when mom was baking. And, since so much of our time is spent in our kitchens, it’s natural to want your décor to be comforting and satisfying – just like a great meal! Now that the holidays are over, you may be thinking of giving your kitchen a facelift, or even remodeling. Maybe it’s time to put down the carving knives and pick up your sketch pad, now that all the “hungry masses” have left and your home is once again your castle.
How to get started? The first step when creating your dream kitchen is to make sure that the decorating scheme reflects your personality. Do your tastes lean toward traditional or contemporary? Maybe you’ve always loved the warm and homey style inspired by Tuscany or the bold and happy hues of the Mediterranean. Your choice of flooring, tiles, cabinets and countertops will go far in setting the theme. Are you a gourmet cook? Then why not consider incorporating some unique utensils and gadgets in your new décor – wooden spoons, spice graters, whisks and copper molds are all great kitchen accessories. And, because many of these accessories can be hung on the walls, your new kitchen makeover will actually provide you with a twofold purpose – redecorating your space and making these vital items more accessible as you cook.
Picking a great color scheme is also important. Often existing cabinets and countertops are in neutrals, wood tones or black and white. A great way to bring a splash of your favorite color into the room is by painting a single accent wall and using it to showcase some coordinated artwork. Make sure to repeat the color in various accessories such as salt and pepper shakers, teakettles and dishware. Again, choosing distinctive paint and artwork is a great way to infuse the room with your signature style and personality.
Kitchen window treatments come in a wide assortment of styles. In fact, more and more homeowners are opting for interesting combinations such as uniquely designed cornices placed over coordinating wood blinds or honeycomb shades. Kitchen window coverings don’t have to be 100 percent utilitarian. Swags and jabots have their place as well. Or, sometimes a simple scalloped valance in a patterned fabric, edged in contrasting cording, is just enough to add pizzazz to an otherwise ho-hum room.
And don’t forget those little special accents that give any room a cohesive feel. You could consider repeating your fabric selection in other areas of your kitchen for a truly coordinated look. How about adding some upholstered seat cushions, pillows on chairs and/or lining on the insides of cabinets, shelves and hutches? Tablecloths, placemats, table runners and coordinating napkins are also a must.
So have fun with your kitchen! After all, it functions as a gathering spot for company and “mission control” for a busy family. A kitchen truly is a full-fledged living space – deserving of its own memorable style and personality. If you need help discovering your kitchen’s hidden beauty, call us … Decorating Den Interiors, serving the greater South Bay. We are here to help.
Janet Cunningham is an interior decorator who lives in Morgan Hill. She is a Decorating Den INTERIORS business owner. Reach Janet at (408) 478-1095 or visit www.decdens.com/jcunningham.
