Don’t have a ton of extra space in your petite kitchen? Why not build a pull-out surface into your counters or at the end of your island? Not only is this a super clever design, but it also gives you a chance to bring in a little bit of natural marble in a spot that won’t get destroyed by kids and spouses – it’s your very own baking or prep heaven. (Marble is not just beautiful, it’s an excellent material for baking stations because it naturally has a cool surface making it ideal for rolling out pastry dough.)

Have a little extra space near your baking station? Always think about how you can group things in your kitchen for efficiency – why not tuck all your canisters of dry goods for baking in the drawers under your pullout station, and add a 6″ pullout in tiny cabinet for your cookie sheets. Even the little spaces can work hard for you in a well-designed kitchen.

Remember, no one knows what you need from your kitchen better than you, so don’t assume your kitchen designer knows what special features will be just right for your new space. Think through how you use (or want to use) your kitchen carefully, and share that with your designer so they can help you create the kitchen of your dreams!

May your home always be happy!