By Valentina Cirasola

Interior Decorating

Orange lowers inhibitions and lifts the threshold of hunger and taste, particularly in the kitchen.

In a small apartment where space is exiguous, give a distinctive touch to the cabinetry with vivacious and effective color, such as orange combined with a delicate nuance of cream for the walls.

The kitchen shares the same space as the living area in most small apartments and continuity is the rule with builders. Divide the two spaces with a brief glass wall, creating the advantage of screening the view without subtracting light. Carrara marble for the kitchen floor provides an elegant division between the cooking area and the living space, where a hardwood floor could furnish a beautiful contrast.

To accent the eating area, design an oval-shaped table with a wood top and legs in brushed stainless steel with white leather dining chairs.

The finished atmosphere would be very young and informal, brightened by the warm, strong color of the kitchen. In a colorful space such as this, food will appear fresh, vivid and appetizing. Company will feel welcomed and relaxed.

Red, orange and deep yellow favor extroverted moods.

Cirasola, who runs Valentina’s Design and Trullo Interiors, is a certified interior designer in residential, commercial and kitchen/bath. For information, call (408) 732-9782