Memphis Apartments

They don’t call kitchens “the heart of the home” for nothing. Of course, kitchens will probably always serve their original purpose-to be an area where food is stored, prepared, and (if you have enough space) consumed. But many kitchens are much more than that. Think of your last party or small get-together. Where did your friends or family members gather? Many people will quickly answer, “The kitchen.” It’s a place where guests feel at ease with food and drink and can easily converse with hosts who may be tied up with additional food preparations.

For families, the kitchen may be a central location where everyone’s lives come together. It may be the place where children complete homework so they can be near a parent or care provider if they have questions. It may be the place where calendars, phone messages, and papers to sign for school are kept, as well as mail. For roommates and couples, the kitchen is a great place to connect and discuss everything from decorating to paying bills. Kitchens, in all their glory, are for many people the most important place in their Memphis apartment home.

Whatever you use your kitchen for and however often you use it, it can be a beautiful and efficient space. But some of you may be wondering, “What do I need there, and how do I decorate and set up my kitchen to make the most of it?” Just start with what you need, then add from there.

No matter what your goals in your kitchen may be, your Memphis apartment (particularly if it’s a rental) likely came equipped with a stove, oven, refrigerator, and perhaps a microwave. You’ll probably want to add a few more small appliances like a toaster, coffee maker, can opener, and those types of things. Once you’re stocked with what you consider to be the necessary tools, it’s time to get down to decorating.

If you have a small, galley-style kitchen in your Memphis apartment, your space is limited and efficiency is paramount. If you have even a little space for dining, try using a small bistro set. They’re available at patio furniture and discount stores, as well as at flea markets. They come in wrought iron, plastic, and other materials, and many can even be used outdoors for summer breakfasts on the deck. They tend to seat one or two people comfortably and are very compact. (Look for the kind with chairs that tuck neatly under the table.) Other small-scale dining options include these:

· Pairing a rolling cart/cutting board with a chair or two, and the set can fit two needs—dining and food preparation.

· Pulling barstools up to a counter (works best if there’s an overhang) for informal dining at its best.

If your Memphis apartment kitchen is larger, you’ll have more dining options, but don’t feel like you have to use one of the old standbys. While traditional dinette sets can be found in many retail stores, you can save money by thinking creatively. Try some of these cost-effective alternatives to purchasing new sets:

· Paint an old dinette set in a striking color, and then add special interest to the tabletop by creating a mosaic. Just break up tile, secure it onto the table, and add grout.

· Buy a small table and chairs in unfinished wood, and try a decorative painting technique instead of just staining.

· Can’t afford a dinette? Find an inexpensive, fold-up card table and toss a pretty tablecloth over it. (No one will ever know the difference.) Put slipcovers on folding metal chairs to complete the set.

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