Working with small spaces in a grand way
Designing a small kitchen forces you to pare down to just the essentials – but that doesn’t mean you have to forfeit style! Smaller kitchens demand extra attention to both style and function. As a result, they’re often well-designed gems.
Focus on function
When a small kitchen has to do everything a large kitchen does, every square inch of it has to be functional. There’s no room for wasted space, so make sure there’s enough cabinetry, work surfaces, and the essential appliance.
Get smart with storage.
With space at a premium, well thought-out and innovative storage solutions may be called for. Consider built-in cabinets in every nook and crann, and make the most of space saving designs. Consider using some open shelving, as cabinets can consume a lot of space. Oh, and don’t forget to eliminate all those kitchen gadgets you never use.
Downsize.
Consider smaller appliances, like two-burner stoves, miniature microwaves, and small dishwashers.
But don’t miniaturize the budget.
A small space means you won’t have to purchase as many materials (like countertops, tiles, flooring, and cabinets) as you would for a large kitchen. That’s an opportunity to splurge, and spring for top-of-the-line materials, appliances and finishes.
Let there be light.
Lighting can play a big role in making a small space both functional and attractive. Consult with a lighting designer to select stylish pendant lamps and under-counter lighting.
Key design elements.
Just because it’s small doesn’t mean the room can’t have key designer focal points – anything from a specially designed wood countertop to glass mosaic on the wall. Be creative.
Let there be light.
Lighting can play a big role in making a small space both functional and attractive. Consult with a lighting designer to select stylish pendant lamps and under-counter lighting.
Expand your palette.
One way to add personality and pizazz to a small room is with bold, highly saturated colors. Dark colors can also make a small room feel larger.
A glass act.
In a tight space, glass fronted cabinets can both lend a sense of space, and help you find what you’re looking for.
Have fun. A small kitchen can be a very manageable project - with spectacular results!