Home improvements: Small kitchen, big plans

Here are some ideas on how to give your kitchen a facelift if you only have limited space to work with.

When it comes to storing items such as pots and pans, hang a pegboard on your wall and suspend the kitchen equipment from it, using hooks. The same can be done for smaller utensils that have holes at the end of their handles. Keep in mind that the board should be taller than it is wide to save space. You can even use your board to store cutlery. Hang up three different mugs and fill them with forks, spoons and knives.

If you’re short on ­surfaces, invest in an étagère – a set of open shelves used for displaying smaller objects – to present your favourite cookbooks, tea cups and even floral ­arrangements.

Opt for earth tones in your kitchen – think yellow, gold or terracotta – or shades of grey or white. Keep shades light and muted to create the impression of a larger space.

Finally, when it comes to seating, look at options such as swivel stools or folding chairs, which can sit snug under a table or counter top when not in use.