How to Make a Windowless Kitchen Look Brighter & Nicer
- 1). Paint your kitchen walls in bright colors that make the room feel more open and spacious. Cool colors, such as light blue, light green and violet are recommended because they give the appearance of depth. Stay away from warm colors, like yellow, orange and red, as they give the appearance of moving inward. Use paint with a high gloss to make your walls appear reflective and luminescent.
- 2). Mimic sunlight by using wall sconces or tall corner lamps, rather than beaming light from a single source directly overhead. Arranging numerous light sources from various angles will create the illusion that the room is being illuminated by windows.
- 3). Hang mirrors throughout the room, to reflect and amplify light sources. Place mirrors at eye level and above, to draw the eye upward toward the area where a window would be. Situate plants strategically, to catch their reflections in mounted mirrors; this will create the illusion of spying at nature through a window.
- 4). Keep your kitchen clean, as clutter, dust and grime will make the room appear cramped and stuffy. Dedicate counter space only to appliances you use daily; store all other appliances in cabinets or shelves. If you have open shelving, keep it neat and orderly to relax the eye. Wash and dry dishes after each meal, and put them away into cabinets rather than leaving them in the strainer; this will help maintain the appearance of open counter space.
- 5). Remain vigilant against odors, since your kitchen lacks fresh air ventilation. If your kitchen stinks, guests will immediately notice you're missing a window. Seal trash in airtight, plastic bags and take it out at least once per day. Use open bowls of vinegar, fresh coffee grounds, unactivated charcoal, baking soda or vanilla extract to absorb cooking odors. If odors are particularly bad, wrap fresh cinnamon in aluminum foil and heat it in your oven; once you can smell the cinnamon, turn off the oven and open the door and allow the smell of freshly baked goods permeate your space.
- 6). Hang framed photographs and prints of vivid nature scenes on the wall. Alternate your artwork to match the season, create the illusion of viewing a current outdoor scene.
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