Create Impact with Color Not Dollars

An Oregon redesign inspires wallet-friendly ideas for a fresh and colorful kitchen

Written by Megan Fulweiler • Styled by Donna Pizzi
Photographed by Philip Clayton-Thompson

Say so long to grey days with a handful of these colorful, wallet-friendly ideas:

• Snag a bold rug to guard the sink or park beneath the breakfast table. Paint the walls a spicy color like cinnamon or terra-cotta pulled from the rug.

• Paint trim and cabinetry glossy white to amplify your wall color, bounce light around the room and aid daily clean-up.

• Award pattern a prominent role. Scattered about the room, seat cushions, pillows or curtains in the same pattern—or different patterns in the same color tone—act like eye-catching sparks.

• Line open shelves with color-coordinated keepsakes or consignment store treasures: bowls, bottles or ceramic cookie jars.

• Accessorize with discounted linens—tablecloths, dish towels and napkins—in hues that mimic your scheme.

• Mount an exhibit of lively cookbook covers in matching, inexpensive frames.

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