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Here are 18 ways I have maximized and updated my cozy 9 x 11 kitchen. By playing up its character and disguising the not-so-charming, I have made this tiny space bright, happy, and big on style.
1. Ready on a whim! Have a beverage and snack station set up with your favorite libations and treats for unexpected guests.
2. Paint the backs of your cabinets a warm tone to make your collection of white plates stand out.
3. Line cabinets with cork. It doesn’t absorb moisture and is environmentally friendly.
4. Bowls of fresh fruit can serve as an impromptu centerpiece or garnish.
5. Update the look of old cabinets by trading out your old door and drawer pulls for new ones.
6. Bright ideas! Have various light sources for task and mood. Hang a wall sconce that doubles as a towel rack or a small lamp on the counter. Install a dimmer on your overhead lights and add inexpensive undercounter lighting.
7. Paint walls in a beautiful gray. For the perfect modern neutral, try Heavy Goose by Martha Stewart.
8. Tiny kitchen? Make every square inch functional. Stainless steel shelving above the stove puts cooking essentials at your fingertips.
9. Have a seat! A stool in the kitchen is a wonderful way to invite friends and family to join you and linger while you're preparing meals.
10. Paint a tired or unsightly backsplash with a bright white tile paint and then add a gallery of your favorite photos or prints for a modern feel.
11. Gourmet up your counter. A large butcher block is not only useful, but adds warmth to a dull surface.
12. Weekends aren't weekends without homemade pancakes. Add orange zest for a twist on a family favorite. (See recipe below.)
Orange Zest Pancakes
Delicate orange flavor highlights these delicious buttermilk pancakes.
Ingredients:
* 3/4 cup orange juice
* 2 tablespoons finely grated orange zest
* 3/4 cup buttermilk
* 3 large eggs
* 2 cups all-purpose flour
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
* 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
* 1/4 cup granulated sugar
* 5 tablespoons melted butter
* Vegetable oil, for pan
Preparation:
Combine all ingredients; beat until smooth. Coat a skillet or griddle lightly with oil and place over medium heat. Using about 1/4 cup of batter for each pancake, pour onto the hot skillet. When bubbles appear over the top of the pancakes and edges are beginning to look a little dry, turn and brown the other side lightly. Adjust heat as necessary to brown evenly.
Serves 4 to 6
13. Back door guests are best. Painting an interior door black looks modern, updated, and anchors the room.
14. Pretty hooks and shelving create a mini mudroom.
15. A mirror adds sparkle and reflective light to the kitchen.
16. A sturdy yet pretty bag for trips to the farmer’s market or the library is a must-have. This one offers gorgeous texture and sturdy leather straps for heavy loads. I found this one at Pottery Barn!
17. Clean and green. Good design doesn’t have to be hidden. A simple dish or basket with organic cleaning supplies on hand brightens and freshens the kitchen.
18. Lemons are a natural cleaner and disinfectant (and they're healthy too). Enjoy!
- Lemon Juice Uses:
- Lemon juice is another natural substance that can be used to clean your home.
- Lemon juice can be used to dissolve soap scum and hard water deposits.
- Lemon is a great substance to clean and shine brass and copper.
- Lemon juice can be mixed with vinegar and or baking soda to make cleaning pastes. Cut a lemon in half and sprinkle baking soda on the cut section. Use the lemon to scrub dishes, surfaces, and stains.
- Mix 1 cup olive oil with ½ cup lemon juice and you have a furniture polish for your hardwood furniture.
- My favorite use for the fruit is to put a whole lemon peel through the garbage disposal. It freshens the drain and the kitchen. Orange peels can be used with the same results.
By Trenna Travis, Trenna Travis Design Studio
