Kitchen blindness is real: You spend hours in there every day, and the appliances, cabinetry, fixtures, and decor items have become so commonplace, you don’t even see them anymore. But your guests do.
Here are six things guests notice about your kitchen—and if any feature isn’t reflecting your home in the best light, we’ve got tips for fixing it.
The Sink Area
Nobody likes a dirty or messy sink, and guests will take note—”especially if dishes are piling up,” says designer Danielle Chiprut.
Take care of as many dishes as you can and give the sink and surrounding area a wipe-down before guests come over so you’re starting with a clean slate. Chiprut suggests adding a stylish drying rack to give that dish overflow a place to go, and in the long term considering investing in a deeper sink.
Lighting
Not enough light, and your kitchen seems closed. Too much light, and your kitchen starts to look like you’re working in a fast food restaurant. The solution? Ambient lighting.
“Warm, diffused lighting is perfect for setting the mood,” says furniture design expert Adam Dunn. “Adding several lighting sources can also help brighten the room while maintaining a comfortable atmosphere.”
Think recessed lighting, task lighting under cabinets, and decorative fixtures. For a collected, lived-in look, Dunn recommends mixing unique pieces and textures—a linen pendant with an iron chandelier, for example.
If you need a quick fix, just bring in some table lamps, ideally cordless ones, and dim the lights if you can.
Countertop and Cabinet Clutter
Designers agree: Cluttered countertops and cabinets are the worst.
“To me, there’s nothing more unappealing than cluttered countertops or disorganized cabinets and pantries,” interior design architect Julee Ireland says. “Clutter and disorganization create a sense of chaos that can make people uneasy.”
Declutter those countertops before guests come over. Chiprut suggests incorporating storage solutions that conceal frequently used items but keep them accessible, like appliance garages and pull-out shelves.
Seating Options
Guests will want to keep you company while you cook or plate in the kitchen. What are the seating options available to them?
“Thoughtfully designed, comfort-driven furniture is guaranteed to turn heads—especially in the kitchen,” Dunn says.
In the kitchen, homeowners often sacrifice comfort for functionality, but Dunn swears you can have both.
“Furnishings designed with soft forms, durable materials, high-performance fabrics, and overall comfort in mind offer a sense of relaxation,” he says.
If you can’t get some more comfortable seating before company arrives, try improving existing seating with cushions and decorative but supportive pillows.
The Cabinetry
Your cabinets likely take up the majority of wall space in the kitchen, so guests will take note.
“Wear and tear, such as dents, scratches, or peeling paint, can make a kitchen feel neglected, while outdated door styles can quickly date the space,” Ireland says.
Replacing cabinets can be costly, but Ireland has a few suggestions for a simple refresh without a reno: giving them a fresh coat of paint, replacing the hardware, or just cleaning them thoroughly.
Homey, Layered Accents
Kitchens are often made up of large things—appliances, cabinetry, a central island—but the small details are equally important.
“When you walk into a kitchen and immediately feel at home, it’s likely because of the layered design details,” Dunn says. “Light, scent, and carefully curated accessories like botanicals and candle holders create a welcoming atmosphere that reflects personal style.”
Choose a good scented candle, a favorite knickknack for the windowsill over the sink, and some other cozy touches to really bring the space together in a personal way.