Happy Monday!

I hope everyone had a great weekend and enjoyed watching the Oscars last night.  As always, there were some stunning dresses and some that missed the mark.  I’m sharing my winners of the night at the end of this post so make sure to read through to the end.  Until then I’ve got some kitchen decorating ideas to share with you!

Designing a kitchen is like designing no other space in the home.  There are always space restrictions, function issues and flow considerations  to work with, in addition to balancing style with storage and organization.  Once a kitchen is designed and all the key elements are in place next comes accessorizing countertops, cupboards, walls and floors.  This little task comes with its own challenges but there is lots of inspiration out there and a few design tips to make decorating your kitchen a bit easier.

COUNTERS:

Kitchen counters are a sacred space in most kitchens with the act of creating storage space with work space becoming a real balancing act.

Whenever possible, it is a good idea to go vertical to maximize storage.  A wood plate rack like this one below not only look goods but offers up maximum storage in a minimum footprint and keeps everyday items close at hand.

Countertop accessories like utensils, tools and seasonings can be gathered up on a pretty tray and not left scattered around on the counter.  A tray also makes it easy to move all the items at one time when the extra counter space is needed.

Wire wall racks don’t have to be hung on the wall to function in a kitchen.  This tiered rack not only uses vertical space but keeps items super organized.

If you have the wall space, create more counter and surface space with the addition of a wall shelf.  This shelf is so beautiful and adds to the character of the kitchen.

p.s.  A super stylish touch for any kitchen counter is the addition of a small accent lamp or two.  Task lighting and ambience at its best!

CABINETS & SHELVING:

A big trend in kitchens at the moment is open shelving.  Taking the doors off of cabinets not only allows someone to showcase a beautiful collection of dinnerware or pottery but the kitchen will have the impression of feeling  larger and more open.

Open kitchen shelving requires organization but when kept organized the impact is stunning.

You’ll also notice that the way the pieces are placed on these shelves utilize vertical space and layering to make the display visually pleasing and efficient.

Open shelving in a kitchen also provides a great opportunity to display decorative items that will enhance the overall look of the kitchen.

And don’t forget the sides of cabinets as a potential display/storage area.  A simple towel bar can become an attractive spot to hang baskets or towels.

(Ikea has great handing bar accessories to create this look)

FLOORS:

When decorating your kitchen, think of your floor as you do your wall.  Add interest and color with rugs, paint or decorative flooring.

I love the look of a runner in the kitchen instead of using several smaller rugs placed in front of the sink, stove etc.  The runner enhances the size of the kitchen and draws you in to the space.

Even traditional area rugs are a great way to style a kitchen.  Larger, flat weave rugs will bring pattern and warmth to an otherwise hard surface kitchen space.

More and more people are opting for painted floor treatments in their kitchen for both the ease of care and added style.  I love this diagonal stripe pattern which adds real visual impact.

When smaller accent rugs are used in a kitchen, go for something bold and dynamic.  This more modern geometric pattern is a great contract to all the other elements in this kitchen.

Or, smaller rugs in the same color but with different patterns is another fun style option.

FLOR tiles are a great style and cost-effective option for kitchen floors.  If one tile gets ruined simple pull that one out and replace it.

WALLS:

Seems that wall space in kitchens is becoming less and less in home design these days.  Because of that it is really important to make a statement with any wall décor you do add to your kitchen.

Framed chalkboards are great not only because they give an eclectic touch but also because they are functional for writing down list, menus and recipes.

Framed “kitchen themed” prints or even tea towels is a great way to add style to your kitchen without much cost.  Keep the frames simple and use color to make the impact.

I love decorative plates as a wall décor statement in a kitchen.  Collect a variety of plates in a simple style but with varying colors and patterns.  The plates can easily be taken down when needed for entertaining too!

This fun DIY project is a great way to create wall décor for your kitchen.  Spray paint some thrift store flatware, frame it against a piece of decorative or plain scrapbook paper and you’ve got a great look.  Just imagine all the color possibilities.

How don’t forget a large wall clock as an option for your kitchen wall.  Go big and bold.

And how about considering a large round frame or embroidery hoop with a piece of decorative fabric.

The kitchen is the hub of the home so make sure to spend a little time creating a space that feels good and adds to the spirit of your home!

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And now my picks for Oscar best dressed are:

Charlize looked stunning in this white gown and her short hair made it even more chic.

This dress worn by Sandra did not have to rely on leg slits or a deep neckline to make it stand out.  The fabric and fitted shape make this dress stand out.

While I didn’t really like the little loop on the belt, the rest of the dress was amazing. The tiered color at the bottom was flirty and fun.

Whenever I have the chance to attend a super formal event, I always opt for a color instead of black because it always stands out. This royal blue color was stunning on Robin and made the simple velvet fabric come alive.  My vote for color of the year 2014!

And finally Jane Fonda.  I love anything in bright yellow and good golly doesn’t she look great for here age! WOW!

Have a great day and do it in style!