10 Kitchen Decor Accessories Ideas to Try: Small Kitchen, Big Style: My 10 Favorite Decor Accessories

I still laugh when I think about the time a client asked me to design a “kitchen that inspires them to write poetry” — and I somehow ended up sourcing copper kettles and hanging dried lavender everywhere. Funny enough, it worked! That project reminded me how even the smallest kitchen accessories can completely change the vibe of a space. Small kitchens really do spark big creativity, and today, I’m sharing 10 of my favorite kitchen decor accessory ideas that I’ve tested over the past decade.

In one light-starved apartment I worked on, the transformation started with a well-planned layout before we even touched the decor. Once you have the bones right, those little accessories shine even brighter.

1. Statement Pendant Lights

Lighting is like the jewelry of your kitchen. Swapping out a basic bulb for a bold pendant can instantly elevate the mood. Just watch out — oversized fixtures can overwhelm tiny spaces.

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2. Open Shelving with Personality

Show off your prettiest bowls, mugs, or spice jars. It’s functional and gives warmth to the room, but beware: it does require regular dusting to keep that ‘effortless’ look.

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3. Colorful Backsplash Tiles

Even a small section of patterned tile can bring energy into the space. One client insisted on Moroccan-style tiles, and now their kitchen feels like a holiday.

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4. Hanging Pot Rails

They save cabinet space and give your kitchen that charming, lived-in vibe. Just keep the pots polished or the ‘rustic’ look can turn into ‘neglected.’

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5. Stylish Countertop Appliances

Choose appliances in matching colors or retro designs — they double as decor. I’ve seen a pastel toaster steal the show more than once.

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6. Indoor Herb Garden

Fresh herbs add color, scent, and flavor. In one project, a tiny window ledge herb setup brightened the entire corner and the layout came together thanks to an accurate scaled plan.

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7. Decorative Canisters

Use them for tea, coffee, or pasta. They make everyday items feel special and keep counters organized — a win-win.

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8. Wall Art That Pops

Art in the kitchen? Yes! Vintage food posters or minimal black-and-white prints can inject character instantly.

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9. Patterned Rugs

A runner with bold colors can soften hard floors and tie everything together. Just invest in a washable one — spills happen!

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10. Accent Bar Stools

Even in small breakfast bars, a pair of stylish stools can act like sculpture. Once, I paired rattan seats with an upgraded island using this kitchen layout trick and it became the client’s favorite spot in the home.

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FAQ

1. What are the easiest kitchen decor accessories to start with?

Start with textiles like rugs or tea towels, then layer in lighting or countertop decor pieces.

2. How can I decorate my kitchen without cluttering it?

Focus on functional items that are also beautiful, like ceramic canisters or wood cutting boards.

3. Are open shelves practical in a small kitchen?

Yes, if you organize them well and dust regularly — they can make the room feel open.

4. Which color scheme works best for small kitchen accessories?

Light colors keep things airy, but adding small pops of bold color creates interest without shrinking the space.

5. How do I choose lighting for my kitchen?

Mix task lighting (under cabinets) with statement lighting (pendants) for both function and style.

6. Can herbs survive in low-light kitchens?

Yes, choose low-light herbs like mint or parsley, or use a grow light. According to the RHS, these thrive indoors with minimal sun.

7. What’s a budget-friendly way to update my kitchen decor?

Swap cabinet handles, add a new rug, or display colorful cookware.

8. Should art be protected in the kitchen?

Yes, choose framed pieces with glass to protect them from grease and humidity.