Small Kitchen Decorating Ideas

Cramped cooking space? No big deal. Put these smart and functional tricks to the test.

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photography by ANNIE SCHLECHTER

Rethink everything-including the sink–to keep this central space beautiful and functional. These kitchen decorating tricks can help any apartment renter.

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photography by ANNIE SCHLECHTER

Hey, Up There
A cabinet hung high in a corner commands attention and draws the eye toward the ceiling. Going with bold wallpaper and art also distract from the size of the room.

See more kitchen decorating ideassmall-space kitchen design ideas, and an easy kitchen makeover. 

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photography by ANGELA MOORE

Showstopping Color
An elegant, theatrical color, like this bright pink, gets plenty of attention, and the cheap cupboards almost fade away. Genius!

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photography by ANNIE SCHLECHTER

Out in the Open
These monochromatic shelves show off a tightly edited collection of plates and glasses, all within easy reach. 

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photography by MAX KIM-BEE

From the Corner 
A bright color puts an exclamation point on a small kitchen and distinguishes it as a separate zone.

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photography by PAUL COSTELLO

Clear Choice
A see-through acrylic shelf lightens a confined space and makes an artful collection of dishes appear to float. Less attractive pieces are relegated to the cupboards above.

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photography by ANNIE SCHLECHTER

Seating Arrangements
A scaled-down pedestal table plus comfy stools that stay out of the way turn even a bite-sized kitchen into an eat-in one.

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photography by ANNIE SCHLECHTER

Brilliant Idea
Open shelves of gleaming highballs, a shiny glass-tile backsplash, and stainless-steel countertops create a glowing, mirror-like effect in a streamlined kitchen with an ingratiated two-burner stove and small sink.

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photography by JOSHUA W. MCHUGH

Optical Illusion
Just like on a sweater, broad horizontal stripes make everything seem wider. This black-and-white flooring creates the appearance of space in a narrow galley kitchen.