Natural light, if at all possible, is a great thing for a small kitchen. Not only does this save on energy costs as far as lighting is concerned, but it also makes the space feel more open. If you can put an outside window into a kitchen that did not have one before, by all means do so. White cabinetry also helps to make a room brighter, especially in conjunction with natural lighting.
There’s also the option of using skylights, perhaps even a vented skylight to offer fresh air – just be sure to remember to close the vents when it rains. If you’re looking for something a lot smaller than a conventional skylight, you could try a tubular skylight, such as the Sun Tunnel skylight from VELUX.
An example of VELUX Sun Tunnel skylights in a small kitchen
Be sure to check back often as we continue our “Small Kitchen Designs That Work” series. As always, if you have any good ideas or design solutions that you know work, feel free to leave a comment and share them with us.
Kitchen Views
www.kitchenviews.com
Previously in the series: Small Galley Kitchen, Small Kitchen Designs That Work, Style and Efficiency, Matching Your Kitchen’s Style to the Rest of Your Home
Kitchen Views' Blog 
I like these kitchen remodeling ideas shown at your blog. Something to show my clients.
http://wahomeremodeling.com/
Thanks! We try to keep it fresh every week with new ideas.