Redesigning a kitchen can be a complicated matter. There are dozens of elements to think about, such as appliance placement, furniture choices and more. One way to make matters easier on yourself is to invest in decor that’s both stylish and functional. This makes giving the kitchen character just as easy as making it practical.

Here are a few ways to decorate a kitchen that’s both beautiful and useful:

Invest in an apron-front sink
For those interested in following a modern farmhouse style, apron-front sinks can be the beautiful addition that your kitchen needs. Not only do they make a delicate, yet bold statement, it also provides ample room to hide those large pots and pans that didn’t fit in the dishwasher. It’s an ideal piece for hosting the next family get-together; all of those dishes left behind after Thanksgiving dinner will go unnoticed in a gorgeous apron-front sink.

Arrange a chalkboard wall
Kitchens can really benefit from an accent wall – it’s an easy design trick that takes the hassle out of arranging accessories and light fixtures in the room, according to designer Karen Vidal.

“A bold wall color paired with white cabinetry can instantly breathe in some new life into a kitchen,” she told Good Housekeeping magazine.

If you want to create an accent wall with a more creative and functional touch, consider arranging differently sized chalkboards all over this designated space. Not only do chalkboards give off a modern and cozy touch, they’re also very useful. You can write out your grocery lists and the family’s agenda so that you never forget when it’s time to grab some eggs or pick up your daughter from soccer practice. It’s also an easy way to entertain the kids when they start to get antsy about when dinner will be ready. Just hand them a piece of chalk and let them draw out their frustrations!

Use cabinetry for organization
Your cabinets may be useful for pots, pans and glassware, but why not keep the doors open and create an area for organization? This is the perfect opportunity to arrange a station for all of the loose paper and mail your family drops off on the kitchen counter that tends to make a disorganized mess that takes up useful space. Place small boxes with each family member’s initials to keep everyone’s mail and documents in order. You can also keep cookbooks, pens, notepads and other useful accessories here so your countertop space can be saved for planning and cooking meals.

Create a cozy eating area
Instead of settling for the traditional dining room set-up – placing the dining table in the middle of the room – why not create a cozy eating nook instead? Vidal told Good Housekeeping magazine that banquettes are a simple way to maximize seating space while making a comfortable and inviting space for your guests and family.

“We love built-in banquettes in a kitchen,” she said. “They’re an instant gathering space.”

Talk to a personal decorator about carving a corner out of your kitchen to create a cozy new eating area that your family will love to retreat to.

Don’t let the idea of redesigning your kitchen intimidate you. If you need help finding and arranging accessories in the kitchen that are equally stylish and functional, call a personal decorator from Decorating Den Interiors. He or she can come to your home for a free consultation to look over the space and discuss your options for design and decor based on your style and personal preferences.

Give your kitchen the TLC it deserves. Contact a design consultant from Decorating Den Interiors today!