Five Assumptions That Aren't Necessarily So

Bigger is better.

"Large spaces tend to feel empty and vacuous," says kitchen designer Jennifer Gilmer, "and you wear yourself out cooking."

Some people might think their kitchen is too small, she says, when in fact it is just badly designed. Small spaces can be reconfigured, made more efficient and even made to look bigger, sometimes with simple tweaks, such as installing cabinets that are less than the standard 24 inches deep.

We have to put on an addition.

"Don't automatically think addition. Think, 'What can I do with the space that I have?' You can reorganize your existing space and create a much bigger living area with the kitchen attached."

Moving appliances and plumbing is budget-busting.

While it can sometimes be complicated and therefore costly, rerouting plumbing or moving a major appliance usually is not that difficult. "It will end up being 1 percent of the total cost of the whole project," Gilmer says, "and you'll end up with a better-functioning and more efficient kitchen."

Only white is right.

"People are afraid of dark," says Gilmer. But dark tones can feel rich and warm and can be brightened up with tiles, wall color and countertops. It's not necessary to be "bright, white and cheery," she says. Sometimes too much white can be cold.

The dining room has to be right next to the kitchen.

Don't be afraid to redefine -- and rename -- your rooms. If you don't use your dining room very often, move it to the front of the house and turn that valuable space close to the kitchen into a well-used living area.

Terri Sapienza