Amid the kitchen's congestion of the fridge and the stove, table and chairs, and hardworking counter-tops, this room usually has little leftover space for decorative touches.
Still, you can add character to this functional room by using treasures you probably already have in your home.
Here's how:
Arrange cooking utensils in a decorative ceramic vase rather than a plastic holder.
Stash the sponge and scrubber in a small painted pot instead of leaving them strewn haphazardly on the counter-top.
Hang bright dish towels from the refrigerator or oven handle to add a splash of color to the room.
Place baskets, bowls or other decorative containers on a windowsill or counter-top near the sink, or atop your breakfast table or fridge. Fill them with seasonal accents: gourds in autumn, chestnuts in winter, bright lemons in spring, limes in summer.
Flowers can perk up the room any time of the year. Even a bird feeder outside the window lends life and color.