Kitchen Ideas: Simple Ways to Add Style and Function

Kitchens are the heart of the home, and even small changes can make a big difference. If you’re looking for kitchen ideas that improve both style and function, you don’t need a full renovation. These small kitchen ideas focus on simple updates like cabinet hardware, kitchen decor ideas for countertops, kitchen organization ideas, and easy kitchen backsplash ideas that can completely refresh the space.

I’m not talking about tearing out cabinets or replacing countertops. These ideas are realistic, budget-friendly, and doable whether you have a large open layout or you’re working with kitchen ideas for small spaces. Many of them are updates I’ve made myself, both in the kitchen on Sutton Place and in our current home.

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Kitchen countertop decor ideas

Countertops are prime real estate, especially in small kitchens. I aim to keep only what I use daily within reach. A matching salt and pepper set, an oil dispenser, or other everyday essentials placed on a small wood tray make cooking more efficient while keeping the space tidy. When frequently used items are chosen thoughtfully and grouped neatly, the counter feels organized instead of cluttered. If you’re looking for more decor-focused inspiration and simple styling ideas, be sure to see my guide to simple kitchen decor ideas.

If you want something purely decorative, keep it minimal. Lean a framed piece of art against the backsplash, or prop a large wood cutting board against the wall. These simple kitchen ideas add warmth and interest while taking up almost no usable space

Change the hardware on kitchen cabinets

One of the most popular small kitchen makeover trends is to change your cabinet hardware. This is an update we made in our Sutton Place kitchen, and it was so worth it. We changed from dated shiny brass to oil rubbed bronze. We have not changed the hardware in our current home because it’s in great shape, and the style is simple. The most important factor is that I like it, and I didn’t want to change it just for the sake of change. If you have hardware that’s worn, or not your decor taste, definitely consider this easy update.

Kitchen organization ideas

Organization is power. Organization is smart, and it’s necessary in order to have storage space that’s functional. If your counter is cluttered, and there are items sitting around that you don’t need or use, put them away. Clean out your drawers and cabinets. If it seems overwhelming, and believe me I have been there, take one step at a time. Start with one drawer, and move on from there. If you’re curious about the everyday tools I use and recommend, you can see my full list of kitchen essentials here.

Simple drawer divider ideas

When I discovered these wood drawer dividers, my life literally changed for the better. They are durable and practical, and they install in seconds. I love the way my drawers look when I open them, and nothing slides around. I purchased several of these dividers for help out the Sutton Place kitchen storage situation, and just brought them with me when we moved. So it’s an investment that you can take with you if relocation or downsizing is in your future. Don’t wait!

Replace solid doors with glass fronts

I’ve added glass doors in both of our kitchens, and it’s something I would absolutely do again. For the kitchen on Sutton Place, I had a carpenter cut out our existing cabinet doors and add glass. For our current kitchen, I ordered new, “glass ready” doors, and had the glass inserted at a local business.

The one thing I didn’t consider was the fact that the interior of the cabinets didn’t match the outside. It was the light wood color pictured in the drawers. Once the inside of the cabinets were painted, it all came together, and is exactly the look I wanted. This is a feature that can be easily added to most kitchen designs, and is well worth the time and effort.

PRO TIP: When styling cabinets with glass fronts, less is always more. Keep space between the items, and for a more cohesive look, coordinate the color of your dishes and glassware whenever possible.

Use fresh herbs as decor

Fresh herbs are, in my opinion, one of life’s loveliest pleasures. I love to grow them, and I love to bring them inside so I can enjoy their scent and beauty. They make perfect kitchen countertop decor as well. They are right there and ready when you need them, and by using small mason jars, pitchers, or vases, they don’t require much space.

Install a new sink and/or faucet

You need a plumber or a bit of plumbing knowledge, but if your kitchen sink or faucet is outdated, you will not go wrong by replacing one or both. We opted to keep the double, stainless steel sink, but we installed a larger and more functional faucet. I have always wanted a farmhouse sink, but adding that would be a major renovation to our kitchen island. I’m hanging in there for now with what we have, but I haven’t given up the dream completely!

Kitchen lighting ideas

Pendant lights over your kitchen island, or a ceiling fixture of any kind, can be easily switched out and updated. It’s also a way to bring in your own personal style, without major kitchen renovation or expense. The lighting fixtures that were here when we moved in had glass shades, and I knew right away that they would have to go. I had glass shades in the bathrooms on Sutton Place, and they were nearly impossible to keep clean. By choosing metal shades for our current kitchen, I completely eliminated that aggravation!

Kitchen backsplash ideas

The list of backsplash ideas that are available for kitchens is long, and the prices vary wildly. It starts with simple painted beadboard, and ends with luxury marble tile. A new tile backsplash is an investment, but it can be accomplished in just a few days. Even if you have quartz or granite counters, a backsplash will add to their beauty.

There are two schools of thought when it comes to color. First, it makes sense to keep your backsplash neutral (think white subway tiles) so you aren’t locked into a particular color scheme. Second, it’s a space where you can add color and style, so take advantage of it. That’s a hard choice! As always, my best advice is to follow your heart, and choose what you love.

Open shelving ideas

One of the best kitchen update ideas that is currently popular is to incorporate open shelves. They add lightness and interest, and it’s also very fun to accessorize them with seasonal decor.

Long before we made updates in this kitchen, I learned how much good organization can change the way a space functions. If you’re working with a small kitchen, you can see the kitchen cabinet organization ideas that made the biggest difference at the Sutton Place house.

Shop + Source

• Salt & pepper grinders
• Utensil crock
• SMEG toaster
• KitchenAid mixer
• Tile backsplash (similar)
• Navy wall sconces