3 Ways to Maximize Space in a Small Kitchen
Tight on kitchen space? Use these three tips to maximize storage and functionality so you can fully enjoy the space you have!
Small on space, big on function!
Living in a small, ‘U’ shaped kitchen myself, I’ve often had fantasies about what it would be like to have a dedicated coffee station, double ovens, and a 48” cooktop with 6 burners, but in reality… it’s definitely more clean up and maintenance, and I’ve realized that our small but mighty kitchen is just what we need - maybe you’ll feel the same after checking out these three tips that I suggest with all of my clients who also want to update and love their little kitchen space!
Tip #1: Use those cabinetry corners!
Corner Pull Outs! Depending on the size of the cabinet, there are a variety of corner storage accessories that you can take advantage of, including swing out shelves and lazy susan turn tables - my top recommendation is the half moon swing out shelves because they typically can hold the most weight - usually the lower half moon shelf can hold up to 60 pounds!
I highlight this tip even more in another blog if you want to see more corner storage solutions.
Bonus tip, utilize all your corner spaces! I love using open, floating shelves in the kitchen to save space. Oftentimes, there’s a corner that a couple of small corner shelves can fit perfectly - giving you the extra space you want and a great place to display those cookbooks, store fresh herb plants, or gorgeous dishware.
Tip #2: Design for Multi-Purpose
While you’re planning your project, try selecting a convection microwave instead of just a microwave to make the appliance multi-purpose! If you want two ovens but don’t have the space or you don’t have space to have two separate appliances (think tiny homes and ADU’s!), then a convection microwave is a great option because it allows you to bake and microwave with safety features to make sure you select the correct function when cooking or heating - it’s two appliances in one (an oven and a microwave!)
Flexibility is key in small spaces, and the GE four door french door refrigerator gives you that flexibility with a top drawer that can be used as either a refrigerator drawer or an extra freezer drawer - that’s right - chill wine or snacks or soft freeze meat! Don’t judge a small appliance by its size! There are some fantastic 30” ranges that offer a center griddle (like the GE Café Range, above), so you actually have the equivalent of 5 or 6 burners (which you usually get on a 36” range or larger!) and options like this are also available with induction ranges as well - you’ll want to look for 30” models with a bridge burner like this 30” Bertazzoni Range; the bridge burner gives you the option to utilize two burners as one for a griddle (for making fajitas, pancakes, etc.).
Tip #3: Think Outside the Kitchen
Maximizing your kitchen space doesn’t mean that you have to stay confined to the kitchen!
You could consider adding furniture or built-in cabinetry to your dining space to extend your kitchen storage! Since our kitchen is on the smaller side, we utilize a dining room buffet (furniture piece) to store outdoor plates, bowls, and glasses, as well as cookbooks! If your kitchen doesn’t have a pantry cabinet or you don’t have a large, fancy walk-in pantry, you can buy one! That’s right - plenty of retailers now offer furniture-style pantries. Some of my favorites are from Ballard Designs.
You don’t have to ‘hide everything’ in a small space to make it feel larger. It’s all about intentional use of space and function - so if you enjoy your morning coffee daily, then dedicate a little counter space to something you love and have your essentials nearby (like mugs, coffee beans, etc.) and make it a space you enjoy using - if you eat certain snacks regularly, consider some decorative containers to dress them up and keep them on the countertop. You can use your counter space for storage and cooking.
I hope these tips help you maximize your kitchen's function (and style!)! If you’re in need of your own storage solutions, contact me, and we’ll get cookin’ (I mean, designing)!