Having gone through multiple lockdowns, the most desirable factor that's attracting attention from buyers and tenants right now is a property with plenty of space.

Compared to houses built in the 1960s, new homes are now designed with smaller kitchens; dropping by 2.77 metres on average across the UK.*

As a central room, it's really important that you're maximising value from your kitchen.

You want your kitchen to be practical and attractive, which requires innovative design ideas and creative storage solutions.

To help you accomplish your renovations this year, we've brought you our top suggestions for making a small kitchen feel spacious and inviting.

Take off the doors

You would be surprised at how much space traditional swinging doors take up.

If it opens outwards, the kitchen door might not be as much of a problem, but if it swings into the kitchen, you could be losing up to a square metre of usable space.

Go for a light colour scheme

As an effective, quick fix to make a small kitchen feel bigger, opt for a neutral colour scheme.

Neutral does not mean just sticking to shades of white and cream, why not try white patterned tiles and marble countertops with a light grey cabinet?

This will reflect the light, making it feel much more spacious than you would find with a darker colour palette.

Install a small breakfast bar

If there is no room for a dining table in your kitchen, consider sacrificing a few cabinets to squeeze in a small breakfast bar.

Or you could even consider using a wide shelf on the wall for an alternative table space – the stools can be tucked underneath to avoid being in the way.

Work your way up the wall

When surface and floor space is limited, it is a good hack to use up wall space too.

Install shelves, rods and notice boards to remove the utensils and clutter from your workspaces.

Adding plants and more lighting will also brighten up the room, creating the illusion of space.

Make use of the space around your fridge and oven

Even if you only have a small space between the wall and your fridge or oven, you could think about adding a hidden rolling cupboard; perfect for storing cans, spices and dry food.

Invest in an over-the-sink cutting board

For kitchens that are tight on surface space, an over-the-sink cutting board is a good way to take advantage of the whole area available. It is also a practical way to wash your fruit and veg without making a mess.

Take advantage of the end of counter space

Rather than keeping this free, take full advantage.

Why not install a bathroom rod to hang your saucepans on? This will free up another cupboard for other things. If they are nice pans, it also adds to the aesthetic of your homely kitchen!

Find a new home for your washing machine

The kitchen is an obvious place for the washing machine but in other European countries, you are more likely to find them in the bathroom.

If you are stuck for space, why not relocate your laundry appliances somewhere else in your home, perhaps the bathroom or a cupboard under the stairs.

Looking for a more spacious home? Browse our available properties.

*Source: LABC Warrant

When decorating a rented property, there are many things you must bear in mind when making any dramatic changes, including getting the landlord’s permission. 

 
However, there are plenty of ways to add personality to the property without risking your deposit, including: 

 
Layering up

Creating layers in a room is a great way to allow a home to feel lived in. 

By simply adding soft furnishings like cushions, blankets, curtains and rugs, you could make your rental feel a lot more like home. 

If you’re unsure where to start, find a major furnishing that catches your eye – such as a nice rug – and build from there using similar fabrics and colours. 

 
Investing in indoor plants 

Houseplants are a great way to brighten up a room. 

These are often inexpensive and require minimal to no effort. 

Even if you lack a green thumb, there are plenty of options such as using artificial plants that will require far less work to maintain! 

 
Letting loose on lighting 

If your rooms are lacking in natural light, opting for a well-positioned lamp can flood the area with some much-needed brightness. 

Light fixtures can be practical and stylish, with many energy-saving options available, such as LEDs to brighten your home and reduce the impact on your wallet and energy consumption. 

With many types of lighting available, it’s important you spend some time comparing to find the right “glow” for your home. 

 
Hanging artwork without the need for nails

Having a home filled with personal photos on the walls is a great way to set the right atmosphere in your rental. 

By using damage-free picture hanging strips, which can be found in most DIY stores, you can avoid losing your deposit due to holes in the paintwork. 
 
Making the most out of your space 

Most of us wish we had more space in our house to fill with our personal belongings, so why not create it by investing in multifunctional furniture for your rooms? 

Not only are these practical but many options are also stylish, meaning you don’t have to compromise on the aesthetics of your home. 

From the garden to the bedroom, there are many ways to save space by creating a multi-purpose environment, such as a home office. 

 
For any advice on the services we offer for landlords and tenants, get in touch today.