In the present time, especially when people are moving to urban areas in big numbers, the living space in our homes is getting smaller and smaller. For instance, even if you live in a very expensive neighbourhood with a big house, your kitchen would still probably be on the smaller side, unlike the kitchens you see on TV shows. However, having a small kitchen does not mean you cannot make it work for you and make it look good. Today, we will walk you through some ideas that you can incorporate into your small kitchen to make it look better and more useful.
Smart Storage Solutions
In a small kitchen, storage space can be a big problem. Here are some clever storage solutions to help you make the most of your kitchen.
Vertical Storage
Think up instead of out. Vertical storage makes the most of wall space, freeing up your countertops and helping to keep your kitchen in order. Install wall-mounted shelves or cabinets to hold dishes, pots and pans. If your cabinets have space above them, store less-used items there.
Under-Cabinet Storage
The space under your cabinets is probably underutilised: hang hooks or a magnetic strip to hang utensils, knives, etc. to keep your counters clutter-free while making your cooking essentials easily accessible.
Pull-Out Pantry Shelves and Corner Units
Fit pull-out shelves in your pantry so that you can see — and therefore reach — things at the back without having to move everything forward. Similarly, units that fit into corners and rotate, providing easy access to storage, are a good use of awkward space.
Multi-Functional Furniture
Every piece of furniture in a small kitchen should serve at least two functions. That is a good use of small space while the functionality of the kitchen also increases.
Foldable Tables and Chairs
Think folding tables and chairs that vanish into an adjacent closet when they’re not in use. A wall-mounted table that folds down and up again can be used for dining or extra prep space, and folding chairs can be stored in a closet or against the wall.
Rolling Kitchen Islands
A rolling kitchen island provides extra counter (and storage) space without permanently claiming the spot, and can also be moved around as needed, like a serving cart or extra dining space.
Built-In Appliances
Having custom kitchen cabinets with built-in appliances is a great way to save counter space, so consider investing in a built-in microwave and oven, as well as a dishwasher. Search for compact, multi-purpose appliances that are designed to fit into your kitchen design.
Layout Optimization
The kitchen is a good example that shows how the layout of your place affects the way you use it. Even if you have a tiny kitchen, a good layout can make cooking and cleaning easier.
The Triangle Rule
The kitchen triangle rule states that the stove, sink and refrigerator should form a triangle in order to ensure optimum work triangles in an efficient kitchen design. The idea is that the three essential cooking areas should be as close to each other as possible so that one can move easily between them.
Open Shelving vs. Closed Cabinets
Open shelves in small kitchens will make the room seem more expansive and airy. And, of course, you can showcase your dishes and cookware, giving your kitchen some decorative appeal. However, open shelves also require more frequent cleaning and tidying. Closed cabinets in a minimalist, handleless design will make a kitchen look clean, sleek and streamlined.
Using Light Colors and Reflective Surfaces
To make a small kitchen appear larger and more open, use light colours and reflective surfaces. Install light-coloured cabinets, countertops and backsplashes, and consider glossy finishes or glass cabinet doors to bounce light and create the illusion of space.
Decluttering and Organization
You ought to be able to have a kitchen which you can fully utilize by getting rid of unused crockery, utensils and the like on a regular basis.
Regularly Purging Unnecessary Items
Periodically take stock of all the stuff in your kitchen. Donate any appliances, food and utensils you no longer use or need. Keep only essentials so that you don’t waste precious storage space.
Using Organizers for Drawers and Cabinets
Use drawer dividers, shelf organisers and cabinet racks to keep items organised and easy to find. Keep pantry items in clear containers so you can easily see what’s there and avoid buying too much.
Labelling and Categorizing Kitchen Items
It is good to label everything in your kitchen. That way you are not searching around for things and you can avoid frustration and waste time looking for things. Group everything on shelves and containers and label them so that you can keep your kitchen organised and find whatever you need.
Conclusion
Combine creative storage ideas, a few multi-purpose pieces of furniture, the optimum layout and regular decluttering and sorting, and you can create a highly efficient and stylish small kitchen. Regardless of how much space you have, remember that you need to use every inch of your small kitchen – it is your responsibility to make it as functional as possible. Work to keep it organised and clutter-free. With a little bit of creativity and planning, your small kitchen can become a kitchen you can cook and entertain in and perhaps even spend time with family and friends.