Homeowners can make their kitchens more functional and easy to navigate by devising various space-saving solutions, an expert has said.Speaking to Sowetan.co.za, interior designer Julie Cosyns noted that as urban populations grow and homes become increasingly smaller, many of the functions that previously had their own designated areas such as the laundry room, dining room and home office are now being absorbed into the kitchen area. Including all this extra functionality into one room takes careful planning, she observed, adding that space-saving solutions can enable homeowners to incorporate a range of functions while keeping kitchens organised. Such solutions could include hiding appliances under the kitchen sink or adding stools around a central island to create a make-shift breakfast bar. Ms Cosyns also noted that more homeowners are looking to buy energy-efficient appliances which are both environmentally friendly and cheaper to run.Meanwhile, design commentator Samantha Pynn wrote for the National Post recently that homeowners can boost the appearance of their kitchens by making simple, stylish additions.