When redecorating a small or compact kitchen it can be quite a challenge as not only do you want to maximize the space you have available, but you also want the kitchen to live up to its full potential. The real key to making this work is to simplify as much as possible and hopefully the list below will help.

1. Only use smooth lines and simple patterns as they will help to create the illusion of space in the kitchen.

2. If at all possible align the appliances flush with cabinets so that you have one continuous unbroken surface and reduce the number of visual elements in the room by using simple cabinet styles. With the wall cabinets you have fixed higher up then why not replace the plain doors with glass fronted ones or do not have any doors at all. This can help to reduce the feeling of being boxed in that solid wood causes.

3. When choosing a colour scheme go for something in a neutral or pastel tone and limit the number of colours and patterns that you use in the decorating. Where at all possible keep the colour of the cabinets, walls and floors similar as this also helps create the illusion of space in such small areas. Use bolder colours only as accents in the room say as the handles on the cabinets.

4. Also if at all possible make sure that you have shiny work surfaces and diagonal patterns on the floor as these also create an illusion of space.

5. Remove all clutter. Do not place anything on the surface of your refrigerator. With some kitchen companies they can make panels to match cabinet doors for your refrigerator which will make it almost disappear. If you want to display items then place them on top of cupboards rather than on the counter tops. Any small appliances, recipe boxes and spices should be placed inside cabinets.

6. To expand the volume of the room further using light and windows. Certainly a kitchen full of light is more appealing and easy to work in. Expand this further if at all possible by placing either opposite or close to the window in question a mirror which will help to reflect more light in to the room.

As you can see just a few simple changes will soon help to make your small kitchen look bigger and brighter and thus more welcoming to the user.