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Smart Design Ideas to Make Your Rental Home’s Small Kitchen Look Bigger

A small kitchen with white cabinets, stainless steel appliances, hardwood flooring, and a tiled backsplash.Often deemed the heart of the home, the kitchen is where warmth and comfort meet. For property owners, the kitchen’s look and utility go beyond aesthetics; they are pivotal in determining a rental home’s appeal, making it a key focus area.

Expanding the kitchen’s physical space might not be possible, but innovative design principles can help property owners create the illusion of a larger, more welcoming kitchen. Implementing these strategies can significantly increase a small kitchen’s appeal to potential tenants, equipping property owners with the tools to maximize their space.

Color consistency and bright lighting

A great strategy for creating a sense of spaciousness is to select light, coordinating colors. Design professionals strongly recommend a white-on-white color scheme. White naturally bounces light, creating the illusion of a bigger space.

Should white not be a good choice for your rental, paint the walls and ceiling in neutral colors that harmonize with the floor. The main point is to ensure color consistency, which visually enlarges the space.

Another key design principle is the proper use of lighting. A dimly lit kitchen can seem small and uninviting. To optimize your space, think beyond just one ceiling light. Add extra lighting under, inside, and on top of cabinets. If your kitchen has windows, utilize natural light by using sheer or no curtains.

Shiny surfaces and open shelving

To enhance the lighting effect, incorporate shiny surfaces wherever possible. Stainless steel appliances, glass shelves, glossy tiles, and similar elements can add depth and space to a small room. Replace the upper cabinet doors with glass ones for added depth. For a bolder look, you can opt for open shelving. This is a favored choice for many small kitchens since cabinets can make the space feel cramped.

Avoid oversized kitchen elements

To effectively design a small space, avoid incorporating large, bulky elements like oversized kitchen islands. Opt for narrow profiles and slim widths in your architectural plans. Many contemporary kitchen islands are designed for narrow spaces, offering ample counter space without bulky cabinets beneath.

Hoping to create a spacious atmosphere in your small room? We at Real Property Management Washington DC can help. Our trusted industry contacts guide you in making your property more appealing. Contact us online or call us at 202-813-9993 to find out about our property management services.

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