Home&Garden December, 2022

The most wonderful time of the year

The stockings are hung by the chimney with care, TBS plays “A Christmas Story” 24 hours a day, and Nat King Cole croons the soundtrack for a briefly revived mall. Someone is baking grandma’s secret cookie recipe, someone is lighting the Menorah, someone is planning their NYE outfit, and someone is just excited to play Minecraft all winter break.

(Hold on ... is TBS even a channel anymore? Does it still do the “Christmas Story” marathon? Or am I dating myself by referencing Ye Olde Days of Cable Television?)

That’s all very Norman Rockwell, but it’s not the best part of December. The best part of December arrives in the mail. No, not an Amazon package delivered by the indentured servant of a billionaire. No, not your Taco Bell order. Wait, what? Why would you make your UberEats driver stuff your meal into a mailbox, anyway? That’s kind of rude. Plus, now your chalupa supreme is smushed and soggy.

Give yourself the best gift of all — a well-planned garden milkweed + honey Kate Schell

No, the best part comes without packages, boxes, or bags (or chalupas) — it is seed catalog season, my dudes. And with catalogs comes planning. In December, there’s little need for the digging, weeding, pest diagnosis, and other malarkey that consumes your gardening time the rest of the year. Right now, all is fallow. It is time to sit down by a fire (or a Netflix fireplace simulator) with a warm cuppa, reflect on last summer’s vegetable garden, and dream about the possibilities of next year’s.

Most seed companies send out catalogs by the end of December, often with orders opening at New Year’s. I recommend ordering as soon as possible, as some things will sell out in January. You thought Ticketmaster breaking from so many fans vying for Taylor Swift tickets was wild? Wait til you see hordes of gardeners clamoring for the same limited-run heirloom bush beans!

Here are some things to consider when planning your annual vegetable garden:

What you don’t need

This may seem obvious, but if you’re anything like me, you want to plant all the things — and all the varieties of all the things. Ambition is good, but balancing your wildest garden fantasies with a dose of reality is important. This may not be the most fun part of the process, but it can save you from disappointment and difficulty later. So if your seed order is longer than Santa’s Naughty List after Black Friday, here are some questions to ask about each crop:

n Do I or anyone in my household really like this? Do we like it enough to eat as much as it likely will produce?

n If the yield is too much for me to eat fresh, who can I share it with? How can it be preserved? Will I have the time, energy, motivation, and supplies to preserve it?

n Do I have the correct climate and site conditions (sun, moisture, soil type)?

n Do I have room for it? (Especially important for sprawlers such as gourds.)

n Do I have patience for it? (Especially important for something you can’t harvest for a few years, like asparagus.)

n If I’ve grown this in the past, was it rewarding? Was it challenging? Was it worth it?

Crop rotation

It’s vital not to grow the same plant in the same spot again and again. Pests and diseases established in the soil one year will be happy to hop back on the same host the next. The best

practice is to plant a crop from a different family which is unlikely to be bothered by said diseases. For example, suppose you had cucumber mosaic virus on your pumpkins in one raised bed this summer. In that case, you should avoid growing another crop from the cucurbit family (squash, melon, cucumber) there for the next couple of summers. Instead, use that bed for a brassica (broccoli, cabbage, kale) one year and a nightshade (tomato, peppers, potato) the next.

People rotate crops to improve nutrients in the soil, too. For instance, growing legumes one season makes more nitrogen available for the next season’s plants. There are various methods, from simple 3-year cycles to detailed 5-year systems. Many home gardeners won’t have space or need for the most advanced rotations, but learning and following the basic principles will improve the health of your soil and plants long-term. I like to draw out a rough draft of where various veggies will go before ordering anything new to ensure I can rotate everything adequately.

Budget

Gardening can be dirt cheap. It also can be a black hole of spending if you let it. Just ask my bank account. I simply love to walk into a nursery for one specific plant and wheel out with a barrowful. It’s me, hi, I’m the problem, it’s me. I’m the Dark Taylor of irresponsible spending on plants. I step on a scale, and it reads “BROKE.” But you don’t have to be like me.

When you’ve just lost money on holiday cheer or winter recreation, it is a perfect time to evaluate your finances and set expectations for the following year. And if the gardening budget is tight? You can thumb through the catalogs for inspiration or a few basics while planning to source most seeds elsewhere.

Springtime comes with a plethora of free seed swaps and plant exchanges. They’re easy to find if you’re on cursed social media like Facebook or NextDoor. Facebook should have a gardening group or BuyNothing page for your neighborhood or city where people advertise such events. Free seeds are sometimes available through your Extension office or Master Gardening program, and they can appear at food banks. BuyNothing is a great place to ask not just for plants but also for supplies like pots or tools — or to share the extras you have lying around.

From my Netflix fireplace to yours, happy holidays, and may your garden be bountiful and weedless in the New Year.

Kate Schell is a designer for Pamplin Media. She orders too many tomato varieties every year. You can reach her at milkweedandhoney@pamplinmedia.com.

Having a rewarding kitchen garden in summer 2023 starts long before the last spring frost. Be nice to future-you by taking the time to reflect, sort, dream, and plan. Start with the seeds and ideas you have already then look to catalogs and other gardeners for inspiration. Your garden plan doesn’t have to be elaborate or pretty, as my simple, chaotic scribbles at left demonstrate.

PMG PHOTOS: KATE SCHELL

How to winterize a vacant home

By METRO CREATIVE SERVICES For Pamplin Media Group

Avast migration takes place when the temperatures begin to drop in the northernmost areas of the United States and even parts of Canada.

No, it has nothing to do with feathered friends finding new roosts or certain mammals getting ready to hibernate. This migration involves the thousands upon thousands of people who retreat from one residence to head to another.

Snowbirds, as these migratory people are often called, are primarily retirees who split their living arrangements

based on weather. Many spend the spring and summer months in one residence, generally in the northern portion of the country. Once the mercury drops there, they trade that home for another in a more temperate locale, such as Florida, Louisiana, Texas, or even overseas. The Palm Beach Post reports that about 145,000 snowbirds flock to Palm Beach County alone each winter, raising the population by around 11%, according to the county’s official figures.

Across Florida, an estimated 900,000 to one million seasonal residents stay a month or more every winter.

When snowbirds or other people leave their homes for

extended periods, they must winterize properties that will sit vacant for months.

Protect against home damage

■ Consider turning off the water supply entirely if you are away for an extended period. Otherwise, a burst pipe may result in significant damage.

■ Drain all water in pipes by opening the faucets and flushing the toilets to clear the water from the tanks and bowls. Place non-toxic antifreeze in the toilet bowls to prevent any remaining water from freezing.

■ If you will not be draining pipes and turning off the water, set the heating system to 55 F or higher to help keep the interior and wall cavities warm.

■ Keep room and cabinet doors open to allow heat to circulate to areas where pipes are located.

■ Shut off the water to outdoor faucets and the washing machine.

■ Close up openings to the house so that rodents and insects cannot get inside and use a home for shelter.

Keep safe with snow and ice

■ Make sure that gutters are free of debris, which can lead to potential ice dams and water collection around the home’s foundation.

■ Hire someone to clear the sidewalks and driveway of snow and ice.

■ Remove any tree branches

that can be weighed down by snow and ice and fall onto the property.

Make the home look lived in

■ Forward mail to your winter address, stop newspaper delivery and arrange to have any package deliveries picked up while you’re away.

■ Put motion-sensitive exterior lights and interior lights on timers. Set lights to come on at various times to discourage thieves or squatters.

■ Ensure the alarm system is in good working order.

■ Use deadbolts to secure doors and windows.

These steps and others can help protect a home while residents are away.

is essential to winterize properties that will sit empty for months

Portland Metropolitan Association of Realtors® Presents Annual Masters Circle Broker of the Year Award

The Portland Metropolitan Association of Realtors® (PMAR) Masters Circle named Lauren Hasson of Cascade Hasson Sotheby’s International Realty the 2022 Masters Circle Broker of the Year. Presented an nually, award selection criteria in clude the number of years as a Masters Circle member, produc tion volume, real estate related involvement, NAR recognized designations, community service involvement, and the number of years in the real estate industry.

Hasson is a third generation Oregonian, born and raised in Lake Oswego. She has built her reputation on providing the high est standard of integrity and an unparalleledworkethicyearafter

year. Lauren started her career as a full-time real estate broker at Hasson Company Realtors® , the company her father, Michael Hasson, founded in 1991. Following in her father’s foot steps, Lauren quickly achieved the distinction of being one of Hasson Company Realtors®’ Top Producing Brokers within the first year of her career, and has earned this distinction every year following.Attheageof25,Lauren became the youngest recipi ent to ever receive the National Association of REALTORS® pres tigious “Top 30 Under 30” award. She has achieved Masters Circle membership for the past five years of her 11 year career.

Hasson is described by col leagues as a “shining light in this industry. She is committed to advocating for her clients to the bestofherability.Herattentionto detail and ability to work through any situation makes her one of the best negotiators. Her knowl edge of real estate far surpasses her time in the industry. She is a fount of knowledge for anyone who works around her.”

In addition to her achievements in the real estate industry, Lauren

is active in her community. She is actively involved with the Lake Oswego girls’ basketball team, providingthemwithuniformsand being and advocate for women’s sports. Additionally, she sits on the board of the Maurice Lucas Foundation, which advocates for youth empowerment through sport.

More information about this award and PMAR’s Masters Circle can be found at www.pmarmc. com/broker-of-the-year.

Portland Metropolitan Association of Realtors® Presents Annual Masters Circle Broker of the Year Award

Portland Metropolitan Association of Realtors® Presents Annual Masters Circle Managing Broker of the Year Award

over 200 active Realtors® with 11 of those also being Masters Circle members. Leading a top producing office is no small feat and Gordon is committed to de veloping members of her office through awareness, training, and accountability.

The Portland Metropolitan Association of Realtors® (PMAR) Masters Circle named Colleen Gordon, Operating Principal and Principal Broker at Keller Williams Realty Professionals, the 2022 Masters Circle Managing Broker of the Year. Presented annually, award selection criteria includes the numberofyearsintherealestate industry, national association rec ognized designations, commu nityservice,numberofyearsasa managing broker, the percentage of brokers in their office that are members of the Masters Circle, and that the nominee has been an inspiration.

Gordon has been a Realtor® for over 20 years. She manages

Colleagues describe Gordon as leadingbyexample.“Sheencour ages her people to conduct their business with the highest pro fessional and ethical standards in accordance with the Realtor® Code of Ethics.” She serves as Co-Chair of the OREF Forms

Committee. Additionally, she servesonPMAR'sBrokerageRisk Management Committee as well asontheProfessionalsStandards Committeeandparticipatesinar bitration and ethics hearings as needed. “She has gone above andbeyondtosupporttheindus try & agents from all companies, not just her own.”

More information about this award and PMAR’s Masters Circle can be found at www.pmarmc.com/ managing-broker-of-the-year.

Colleen Gordon, Operating Principal and Principal Broker at Keller Williams Realty Professionals, receives annual award for excellence in the industry and community while also leading office of Realtors®

Diamond-Platinum Members

WHAT SETS MEMBERS OF THE MASTERS CIRCLE APART?

THEY HAVE THE EXPERIENCE TO PROVIDE EXCEPTIONAL RESULTS

Judy P. Adler GRI Windermere Realty Group (503) 675-8264

Mary Jo Avery Avery Bunick Luxury Properties (503) 799-3839

LIFE MEMBER Chris Balmes GRI Chris Balmes Properties, LLC (503) 319-7026

Angie Bissett

Jeanne Cox Able Windermere Realty Trust (503) 703-2430

Jim Arnal Living Room Realty (503) 351-3000

Bill Bailey RE/MAX EQUITY GROUP (503) 348-6380

Pat Bangerter Cascade Hasson Sotheby's International Realty (503) 803-6269

Gina Bany Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate (503) 267-5457

Darryl Bodle II Keller Williams Realty Portland Premiere (503) 709-4632

REASON

THEY GIVE BACK TO THEIR COMMUNITY

Not only is the Masters Circle committed to serving their clients, they are committed to serving their community at large! Our members seek to build and strengthen the relationships between the real estate industry and their communities. The Masters Circle donates proceeds from their annual silent auction to local non-profits working to improve our community such as the African American Alliance for Homeownership, Northwest Children’s Outreach, Union Gospel Mission, JOIN, and more.

REASON

THEY FORM A NETWORK OF KNOWLEDGE

A knowledgeable Realtor® can help you find a home best meeting your needs and expectations. You get access to their resources and knowledge of the market area and available inventory as well as their ability to recommend other qualified housing professionals. This includes mortgage lenders, home inspectors, and others whose services will be integral to a great home buying experience.

When a Realtor® joins the Masters Circle, they join a network of accomplished professionals who help each other improve their skills. This network of knowledge and experience helps them serve you – the client!

LIFE MEMBER Bill Futrell Windermere Realty Trust (503) 750-8662

Sandy Fogle SRES Windermere Realty Trust (503) 334-7000

Cricket Forsey SRES Keller Williams Realty Portland Premiere (503) 515-1217

Sharon Fleming Coldwell Banker Bain (503) 680-3702

Deserie Fernbaugh Daniels

Lori Hamilton

Lisa Jane Hanson

Diana Erickson

Keri Geers

516-7919

Masters Circle

REASON

THEY ARE DEDICATED TO THEIR CRAFT

Joining the Masters Circle is an extra step Realtors® can take to demonstrate their dedication and commitment to the field. These members have risen to the top of the industry by excelling in negotiation, listening, attention to detail, and knowing all the ins and outs of real estate.

Members of the Masters Circle annually demonstrate outstanding achievements in the listing and selling of property. Choosing to work with a Masters Circle Realtor® gives you the confidence of working with a dedicated professional for the largest investment of your life.

Barbara Knudsen

Marcia Kies

Kristen

Linda

Russell Homewood

Sue Hildreth SRES Windermere Realty Trust (503)284-7755

Iraida B. Hermann ABR Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices (503) 479-8067

Carey Hughes Keller Williams Realty Professionals (503)

Megan Jumago-Simpson Keller Williams Realty Portland Premiere (503)

Steve

Kellie

Bobbi Inman

Nancy Kelly Harcourts Real Estate Network Group (503) 805-5887

Justin

Kimberly Harrington

Susie Hunt Moran Windermere Realty Trust (503) 970-9866

Michelle Koury Windermere Realty Trust (503) 970-5092

Patrick J. Henry Coldwell Banker Bain (503)789-6002

Marcus

THEY ARE REALTORS®

Masters Circle members aren’t just real estate professionals –they are Realtors® and abide to a strict Code of Ethics based on professionalism and protecting their clients. They are proficient negotiators who know their local market better than anyone and have exclusive access to educational opportunities to further their skills.

Are you a first time homebuyer who is looking to purchase? A senior who wants to downsize? Or are you relocating to the Portland Metro Area? There is a Masters Circle Realtor® member that can make your homebuying dreams come true!

David McGrew

Jordan Matin

Courtney LeBoeuf

Amy Savage

913-1587

997-9087

784-3251

515-3449

704-0172

PORTLAND METROPOLITAN ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS

PMAR was established in 1911 to organize the real estate profession in the Portland metropolitan marketplace. Today, the Association is the local voice for real estate as the advocate for free enterprise and private property rights. Our core purpose is to advance the ability of our Realtor® members to thrive in an ethical, professional and profitable manner.

®

Debbie J. Todd Premiere Property Group, LLC (503)

Claire Widmark-Wright GRI

Keller Williams Realty Professionals (971) 275-3691

Tracy

Patti Waddell Windermere Realty Group (503) 688-0022

Tim Walters

Jennifer Weinhart Cascade Hasson Sotheby's International Realty (503)

Airika

LIFE MEMBER

Carolyn Weinstein ABR, SRES Cascade Hasson Sotheby's International Realty (503) 804-5854

Connie Young Vera Keller Williams Realty Professionals (503 890-0654

Shauna Stroup-Harrison SRES, GREEN Oregon First (971) 219-0975

Susan Stier CRS, GRI Windermere Realty Trust (503) 701-0066

Val Thorpe

Aimee Virnig GRI Windermere Realty Trust (503) 803-7678

Raejean Sly ABR, GRI Coldwell Banker Bain (503)

Karina Stark Keller Williams Realty Professionals (503)

Molly Starr GRI RE/MAX EQUITY GROUP (503) 789-2417

Jen Wiley Cascade Hasson Sotheby's International Realty (503)

Kendall Woodworth Windermere Realty Trust (503) 539-0001

Victoria Wriglesworth Harcourts Real Estate Network Group (503) 780-6607

Platinum Members

Platinum members have attained $20 million or more in closed dollar volume in the immediate past four years.

Diamond Members

Diamond members have attained $5 million or more in closed dollar volume in the preceding calendar year.

Judie Dunken GRI

Keller Williams Realty Professionals (503) 849-1593

ABR: Accredited Buyer’s Representative

AHWD: At Home With Diversity

CIPS: Certified International Property Specialist

CRS: Council of Residential Specialist

e-PRO: Internet and Technical

GREEN: Green

Jane J Boyd Oregon First (503) 805-3226

Jessica Clark-Root Soldera Properties, Inc. (503) 515-5467

GRI: Graduate, Realtor Institute

HCS: HOWNW.com TM Certified Specialist

PSA: Pricing Strategy Advisor

SFR: Short Sale and Foreclosure

SRS: Seller Representative Specialist

SRES: Seniors Real Estate Specialist

Members

Members have attained closed dollar volume of at least $2 million or 20 transaction sides during the preceding calendar year.

Shannon Janssen Coldwell Banker Bain (503) 784-8097

Kieshawn Lewis Oregon First (503)544-5964

Amy Liu Oregon First (503) 558-8586

Brian Hoge SRES Oregon First (503) 260-6363

Chris Balmes Properties, LLC (503) 901-6545

Colton Mork Coldwell Banker Bain (503) 730-0842

Sharon Mork Coldwell Banker Bain (503) 730-3501

Jennifer Kettner

Oregon First (503) 867-5042

407-3639

Joanie Elliott-Barclay ABR, CRS, GRI Coldwell Banker Bain (503) 869-2979

MORE Realty Inc (503) 706-5696

Masters Circle

Darcy Paquette Keller Williams Realty Portland Premiere (971) 409-7731

Linda Rossi Oregon First (503) 318-2116

Lisa Balmes

Marlene Clark Westlake Realty LLC (503)

Mendy Miller ABR

LIFE MEMBER

How to care for winter birds that visit your yard

By METRO CREATIVE SERVICES For Pamplin Media Group

The pristine, white backdrop of a snowy winter day can be a wonder to behold.

While fresh snow on the ground can make for awe-inspiring landscapes, the absence of greenery amid the starkness of winter poses challenges for animals that do not ride out winter in a state of hibernation.

Several bird species stay in colder climates over the winter. Red-winged crossbills, snow buntings, bohemian waxwings, evening grosbeaks, and cardinals are just some of the birds one may find while gazing outside on a chilly winter’s day. Birding in the winter can be a rewarding hobby because, despite the freezing conditions, birds tend to be easy to find in bare trees. Furthermore, the colder temperatures may keep many people inside, meaning neighborhoods, trails and parks can be very quiet, making it easier for those who brave the cold to see birds.

The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds indicates that winter is difficult for birds due to the weather and food scarcity. Furthermore, birds must consume a lot of food in a short time to have the energy and body warmth to survive each day. Even birds that store food in caches or have developed particular scavenging strategies to find as much food as possible can benefit from a bit of wintertime help. Penn State Extension suggests providing a variety of foods to attract the greatest number of species. Small, black-oil sunflower seeds are preferred by many smaller bird species and have a high oil content that is nutritionally important for birds. Other sunflower seeds will be appropriate for bluejays and cardinals. Some other popular foods include white proso millet, thistle seed, niger seed, and peanuts.

Consult a wild bird store, which likely sells a birdseed mix that enables you to place a variety of seeds into one feeder. In addition to seed, suet, which is made from high-quality animal fat, is crucial for birds in the winter. Families can get crafty by spreading peanut butter onto pine cones and sprinkling seed on top. Hang the pine cones tied to pieces of string from tree branches for homemade feeders.

Birds likely need a little help surviving the winter, when conditions can be bleak. Offering food and observing backyard visitors can be a great way to unwind on winter afternoons.

The absence of greenery can pose challenges for animals that don’t hibernate

Simple, inexpensive staging strategies

By METRO CREATIVE SERVICES For Pamplin Media Group

Staging has long been part of selling a home, and for a good reason. When selling a home, it makes sense for sellers to make their homes as appealing as possible, even if a recent study indicates that staging may not compel buyers to offer more money.

Researchers at Old Dominion University and Johns Hopkins University found that staging did not significantly affect the actual revealed market value of a property. However, homeowners should not interpret

that as a reason to skip staging. The study’s authors note that staging gave buyers more favorable impressions of a property, which might accelerate the selling process.

Staging a home need not be difficult. Homeowners can employ several simple and inexpensive staging strategies to entice buyers to make offers on their homes.

Clear out the clutter

Clear out the clutter in each room before hosting an open house. Note that it’s not just bedrooms and living rooms that should be made to look open, spacious and clutter-free. A luxurious, hotel-quality bathroom

that’s open and airy can impress buyers, as can organized closets that are not jam-packed with clothing, shoes, and other wardrobe items that tend to take over closets the longer someone lives in a home.

Let the sun shine in

A bright and airy home tends to appear more spacious and livable than one in which the windows and blinds are closed. Before hosting an open house, open the blinds and crack some windows if the weather permits.

Start right inside the front door

A welcoming, clutter-free

foyer or primary entryway makes a solid first impression, immediately giving buyers an idea of what it will be like to welcome their friends and family into a home should they buy it. If you hang your coats on a coat rack in a foyer or entryway that does not have a closet, remove the coat rack before hosting an open house. Coat racks can make the space feel cramped. If there’s room, place a small table and bench inside the door.

Take care of the yard

You only get one chance to make a first impression, and the first thing buyers will see

when they pull up outside your house is the exterior of your home. Landscaping is essential, and a well-maintained yard suggests to buyers that owners have taken pride in their homes, and that may extend inside the house. Make sure the grass is freshly cut, shrubs and trees have been trimmed, bald spots in the lawn have been addressed, and exterior living spaces have been cleaned and cleared of clutter.

Staging a home sounds complicated. But there are various simple and inexpensive ways to make a home more attractive to prospective buyers.

How to reduce risk of home fires this holiday season

Fire safety bears special consideration during a busy season

By METRO CREATIVE SERVICES For Pamplin Media Group

Safety might not be the first thing people think of as the holiday season approaches.

Faith, celebrations, decorations, and holiday dinners come to mind when considering the holiday season. But that doesn’t mean safety should be left out of holiday planning.

Fire safety bears special consideration during the holiday season when the prevalence of fire hazards like Christmas trees, holiday lighting displays and other decorative items increase the risk of

home fires. Such tragedies can be averted with a few simple safety measures.

Tend to your tree

Live Christmas trees are awe-inspiring, but they also pose a significant fire risk. The National Fire Protection Association urges celebrants to purchase only healthy trees with fresh, green needles that do not fall off when touched. Such trees are less likely to dry out, especially when wellwatered throughout the season. Dry trees can catch fire more quickly than healthy trees if embers from nearby fireplaces or candles drift in their direction.

Recognize that location matters when decorating

The NFPA notes that Christmas trees should always be placed at least three feet away from any heat source, including fireplaces, space heaters, heat vents, candles, and even overhead lights. If decorating with candles, never place them on the tree or on tables where other flammable decorations have already been set. Chanukah menorahs should never be placed near curtains or other decorations.

Turn off your lights

In addition to extinguishing all lit decorative items when leaving home or going to bed, it’s also a good idea to turn off any lights. Lit candles and me-

norahs should never be left unattended. The NFPA recommends turning tree lights and exterior decorative lights off when leaving home or going to bed.

Utilize a fire screen on fireplaces

Embers can catch on trees, decorations or anything else that’s flammable if they escape the fireplace. Fire screens prevent that by ensuring embers from burning logs stay in the fireplace. Like candles and menorahs, fires burning in a fireplace should never be left unattended. Ensure all embers have been extinguished before leaving home or going to bed.

Keep discarded trees away from your home

A 2014 analysis from the NFPA found that none of the ten days with the largest share of Christmas tree fires were before Christmas.

Dried-out trees still pose a fire risk even after they’ve been removed from a home. When discarding a tree at the end of the holiday season, place it at the curb or keep it a safe distance away from your home and garage until you can.

Fire safety measures are an essential component of the holiday season that can prevent this joyous time of year from turning tragic.

Small kitchen improvements that maximize functionality

By METRO CREATIVE SERVICES For Pamplin Media Group

Many homeowners wish for expansive kitchens. Modernized kitchens that include sought-after fea tures and showcase the latest trends go a long way to improving the overall value of a home.

As desirable as such kitchens may be, some homes don’t have enough space for a centerfold-worthy kitchen featuring an is land, wine refrigerator, and walk-in pan try. However, homeowners with small kitchens can still improve the form and function of their existing spaces.

Reconfigure and revamp cabinetry

Homeowners whose kitchens are small often lament their lack of storage. Rede signing the cabinets’ layout and adding more cabinetry may address certain stor age issues. The experts at Merit Kitchens suggest utilizing corner space with Le Mans units, lazy susans, and other gad gets to make these areas more accessible. Going vertical with wall cabinets extend ing to the ceiling can also add more stor age, as can roll-in work carts.

Work with the walls

Small kitchens require clever usage of vertical space. Vertical storage units, hooks, shelving, and more can move items out of drawers and off counters. Consider an under-the-cabinet toaster ov en and microwave to create more counter space.

Use scaled-down appliances

If you have a small kitchen, shop with size in mind when looking at new appli ances. Compact versions won’t take up as much space as larger alternatives. Home owners should consider the kitchen’s ulti mate function and which appliances will serve them well. Homeowners with small kitchens may not need a large stand mixer or a large commercial stove.

Add some glass

The DIY Network recommends incorpo rating glass to improve the perception of space in small kitchens. Glass lets you see through the objects, enhancing the feeling of spaciousness or what designers call

“negative space.” Glass can also be reflec tive, visually expanding the space.

Embrace high-end materials

It costs less to renovate small spaces than bigger areas, so homeowners can afford

high-end materials that add personality to a kitchen. Flooring, counter materials and quality fixtures can set small kitchens apart. Small kitchens can be culinary havens with the right improvements to maximize the space.

Modernized kitchens that include soughtafter features increase the overall value of a home