Guest Blogger: Casey from Loft + Cottage...

Thanks, Sarah, for inviting me to share some design tips with your readers!

As a working interior designer, I enjoy sharing my decorating ideas, resources, and inspirations on my blog, and I adore visiting you here for even more beautiful inspiration on everything from food to fashion to travel to decor.

Some of my favorite room inspirations are kitchens, and some of the most creative kitchens you can find are super-small. I love seeing how a tiny space can showcase gorgeous style and still preserve function. Here's some ways to achieve that balance in your own space, if you happen to have a too-small kitchen that's cramping your style.

{top 5 tips for a small kitchen}

1. Use small-scale appliances. Choose a smaller sink. Get an undercounter fridge. Choose the 30" range instead of the 36".

2. Ditch the upper cabinets. Open up the room with floating shelves. Just be sure to organize, and group like items together.

3. Consider the power of mirrors to open up a tiny space.

4. Keep colors consistent. A simple palette on cabinets and countertops keeps the eye moving and expands a room.

5. Don't forget to decorate! Lean platters and trays, bring in flowers and fruit, and add framed pictures and canvases—a kitchen should reflect your style as much as any other room in your home. {images via house beautiful, thom filicia}