Kitschy Kitchens: Adding Humor to Your Space
Why so serious? Just because you’re an adult and a homeowner doesn’t mean you can’t have a little fun.
Take your kitchen, for instance. We’re used to seeing sleek and modern kitchens with clean edges and glossy surfaces, or classically elegant kitchens, with remarkable craftsmanship and polished finishes.
All of these approaches are wonderful, but sometimes, you want something a little different. Something that shows a touch of your personality, that punches up those traditional stylings with a hint of eccentricity. Sometimes, a little bit of humor is all you need.
But before you start knocking down walls, there’s no need for a complete overhaul! It’s all about learning how to complement your existing layout with some funky and fresh accents. So how can you get that fun, feel-good kitchen look you’ve always dreamed of? Here are a few ideas. Check it out and see if anything inspires you!
Chalk It Up
Chalk isn’t just for school anymore! One surprising, simple way to add instant appeal to your kitchen is with chalkboard paint. This is a great project for any DIY skill level. All you have to do is layer on a coat or two, and you’re good to go. You can put it on walls or cabinets, and there are tons of colors to choose from. When you’re done, take your chalk and draw, write, or color to your heart’s content. You can even keep a box of chalk handy for your guests to get in on the fun too.
Pattern Your World
Nothing says fun quite like a bold, funky print. Once again, you aren’t limited to walls; you can really take a pattern anywhere. Try an area rug on the floor, or if you’re ready for a major change, lay a printed tile. Cover your chair cushions with bold, patterned fabric, or install printed drapes or shades over the window. Lay a patterned wallpaper on one wall for a punch, or all of the walls for a statement. If you’re feeling particularly spicy, you can mix and match patterns for a colorful, eclectic result.
Secret Storage
Storage doesn’t have to be boring. In fact, storage can add a surprising element of fun and whimsy to your kitchen. There are tons of ways to do this, and there is bound to be at least one approach that fits your vision and sparks the smiles. Hidden storage with false fronts, stylish sliding doors, and exposed spinning racks are unexpected ways to bring a little humor and whimsy into kitchen storage.
Add a Punch of Color
A pop of color can be a powerful tool for brightening up any kitchen space. Like patterns, there’s no need to relegate color to the walls only – it can go just about anywhere! From appliances to décor to paint, a pretty pastel or saturated hue can do wonders for your mood and the overall look of your space.
Art
They say humor is subjective, but art is too. Why not combine the two into the perfect accent? Paintings, photographs, and printed phrases are classic wall décor, but don’t be afraid to get creative. Hanging tapestries, unique knickknacks, cute and crafty DIY projects, carvings, fridge magnets, and culinary-themed kitsch—like this crazy utensil clock—are all fun ways to dress up the space. Go with your gut!
Creativity on the Go
Who said art was only for the walls? If you have little ones or are often courting your own muse, try keeping a roll of butcher paper in the kitchen. Lay it on the table during dinnertime, and set your dishware and utensils on top of it. It protects the table, and it keeps your kids entertained throughout the meal. Obviously, this isn’t an all-the-time thing, but it can be great fun for children’s parties or casual outdoor barbecues.
Lighten the Mood
Unique light fixtures are a great way to bring a little joy into the kitchen. There are fixtures of every shape, size, and style. Star-shaped or geometric drop pendants, stained glass lamps, woven wicker covers, and metal fixtures with laser-cut designs are beautiful and mature ways of lighting up a room. For something a little more child-friendly, how about a flush-mount lamp in the shape of clouds, suns, or moons.
At Winthorpe Design & Build, we’re all about bringing your vision to life. If any of these ideas bring a smile, we can help you make it a reality. Connect with us today, and let’s talk about it!