We've compiled our favorite decorating ideas and tips to help you create your dream kitchen

Organized Pantry

Utilitarian though it may be, the pantry can be as attractive as any other element in your work space. Careful organization and a few personal touches will make this storage bonanza one of your favorite features.




Easy-to-Access Cabinets

With limited space for upper cabinets, deep, easy-to-access drawers help maximize storage. The charcoal Vermont Soapstone countertop and slate floor complement blue-and-white decor.




Frugal & Beautiful

Refurbishing the cabinets that came with their house saved this couple considerable money and planning time:

Glass Act: Replacement doors ordered online from Quality Doors transformed the existing units.

Finishings: Crown moldings and a coat of white paint (a low-VOC formulation available from Yenkin-Majestic) completed the room's update.

On Display: A few open shelves situated in otherwise unused corners and nooks display the homeowners' growing collection of ironstone, found on eBay.




Kitchen Collections

SHOW OFF COLLECTIONS: A display of blue-and-white floral plates and cobalt glasses and mugs continues the bold color scheme in the kitchen. Vintage wicker lends a warm, natural touch.

MAKE SMALL CHANGES: Removing upper cabinet doors to expose the shelves reinforces the casual mood of the house. New, more modern brushed stainless knobs streamline the design.

KEEP WHAT YOU CAN: Switching out appliances and removing backsplash tile can be costly. Since the appliances worked properly and the seashell tile was intact, it made sense to incorporate them into the new design.




Turquoise Kitchen

Turquoise was a popular hue in the '50s. When redesigning the kitchen, the homeowner took cues from old '50s wares such as Pyrex bowls and printed tablecloths. She diverted from her softer palette and paired turquoise with red.



Stainless-Steel Shelves

Restaurant-supply-style shelves from IKEA keep canisters and teacups within reach, and, with the stainless-steel refrigerator and stove, signify what this homeowner calls "urban cottage."





photo credit: Steve Gross & Sue Daley