This small space from deVOL Kitchens has a pale palette and a wrap-around natural wood pegboard in lieu of upper cabinetry that lightens up the wall and creates a display space for tools and plants. Forbes + Masters managed to squeeze two separate seating areas into this modest-sized open-plan highrise kitchen. A pair of bar stools at the central island provides a perch for a coffee break or cocktail hour, and a small round table and chairs by the floor-to-ceiling windows provides a comfortable place to dine. This top-floor duplex kitchen from Space Factory is built along a wall next to a plywood staircase inspired by a Kapla game.

Think about the space that extends above your countertops or around your backsplash, and consider whether it deserves a tune-up of its own. Wood paneling can add a little texture to your space, a coat of paint can add color to it, and other decorative details—like thoughtfully placed lighting fixtures—can really bring it together. In some cases, you’ll want it to because you’ll need all the storage space you can get.

Carve Out Window Sill Storage

And the marble front on the kitchen island enhances the elegant vibe. Use soft nature-inspired colors to freshen up a small modern kitchen. Michelle Berwick Design paired vertical stacked terracotta tiles on the kitchen island with coral base cabinetry and a scalloped hood vent in this modern cottage kitchen. Dip your toes into trending earth tones with a crowd-pleasing shade like sage green for a soothing nature-inspired feel.