10 Kitchen Decor Tips

You don't have to make big changes in your kitchen decor to have a big impact. Sometimes small changes are all that are needed. Small changes are also easier to do yourself, and cost much less than major remodeling projects. Here are some tips to get started.

1. Paint the walls. Instead of plain white, or dark, rich colors, choose a neutral color, like grey or beige. Neutral colors won't date the room, and won't create a clashing palette of colors.

2. Use mirrors. Properly placed mirrors can help to visually open up a small, cramped space. Put a mirror on the wall opposite of a window to help distribute natural light around the kitchen. The brightness, plus the reflection in the mirror help to make a small space seem larger, and less cramped.

3. Change with the seasons. Try moving the furniture in the summer, to create an open, airy feel. If possible, remove some furniture, and decorations to open up the space a bit, and create a lighter feel. Arrange the furniture and decorations in the winter to create a warmer, cozy feel in your kitchen. Just don't overcrowd the kitchen. Keep functionality in mind, you still need to create meals in the kitchen, summer and winter.

4. Get inspired. Look through magazines and books, or watch some of the home improvement shows on TV. Take a look at the accessories and decor that the pros use. You may see a window treatment that you like in one magazine, and possibly a countertop in another source. Take notes of these elements that you like, and think about how you can add those elements or something similar in your own kitchen.

5. Cookbooks. Not only can you find recipes for dinner in cookbooks, but they can also serve as a decor item. Arrange the cookbooks in different groupings on the shelf, until you find one that is pleasing to the eye.

6. Area rugs. Area rugs can serve several purposes in the kitchen. They can provide a nice warm place to stand in the morning, instead of a cold tile floor. Area rugs can add a splash of color in the kitchen, or they can cover up old flooring that doesn't look so nice anymore. Be sure to measure the area that the rug will be placed, so you can buy the right size.

7. Plants. There is probably a bare corner of your kitchen ceiling that could benefit from a hanging plant. Plants can soften up the corners of a room, as well as adding some visual interest. You can use real plants, but if the plant is going to be in a hard to reach place, you can find realistic looking silk plants.

8. Accessorize. Sometimes changing little things can change the look of the whole kitchen. Simply replace some small items, like toaster covers, canisters, pot holders, towels, and other small items. Often you can find these items with a particular theme, or just go with matching colors.

9. Cabinet Pulls. Cabinet pulls are inexpensive, and can be changed easily. You can find many styles these days at your local home improvement center. They come in several styles and materials to match your desired decor. You can find wooden, metal, ceramic, or glass cabinet pulls and knobs, in many shapes and styles.

10. Wallpaper border. You can add a wallpaper border easily, to add color and style to your kitchen. You can use them at the top of your wall, under the cabinets, or at chair rail height.

You don't have to hire a contractor, or spend a lot of money on kitchen decor. With a few small and inexpensive changes, you can have your old and tired kitchen looking fresh and new.