If you are renovating or remodelling your small kitchen, you have the chance to make the most of your space, but you need to plan ahead, before the work begins. A fresh coat of paint isn't going to make that space any more workable, so note a few kitchen renovation ideas to consider for small spaces.

1. Pot racks

A pot rack that hangs from the ceiling gives you the chance to maximise space, as you can store pots and pans and even utensils overhead, rather than in drawers and cupboards. Include the pot rack in your renovation design because you may need to work it around a new light fixture you've chosen, or you may need to choose a smaller light fixture in order to accommodate the space needed for the rack.

2. Chalkboard paint on an open wall

If your small kitchen seems cluttered because you always have notes, calendars, and the like scattered all over the counters, see if one open wall on your kitchen can be covered in chalkboard paint. You can use it to write out your calendars and notes that the family needs to see. Use a magnetic paint so you can stick those notes and papers on that wall rather than leaving them on the countertops.

3. Downsizing appliances

Your kitchen may seem cramped and crowded because you're using full-size appliances. If you have a large family then you may need a full-size range with four burners and a large dishwasher, but consider your needs carefully. If you rarely use all four burners on the cook top, why not downsize to an apartment-size oven and stove with just three burners and a smaller cooking space in the oven? A compact dishwasher may be all you need if you never seem to have a full load of dishes when you're ready to run the dishwasher. By choosing smaller appliances for your new kitchen renovation, you can open up space for more cupboards and cabinets.

4. Move the eating area to outside the kitchen

If you have a kitchen island or small dining table in the kitchen itself, why not move the eating area to the space outside the kitchen? You can do this by extending the lip or edge of the counter that faces the family room and then putting stools under that edge. This gets the eating space out of the kitchen area so you open up the kitchen itself.