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Large, sprawling kitchens are wonderful for cooking and entertaining guests, but tend to lack the charm of a small kitchen. Kitchens are the lifeblood of the home and making sure one has the proper amenities is very important, no matter the size. When remodeling a small kitchen, it may seem overwhelming to incorporate everything needed, but taking a deep breath and embracing the coziness will help every step of the way.
Creating an efficient kitchen with little space can be difficult, but there are four main points to tackle in order to achieve the perfect space: creative storage, small appliances, proper lighting and aesthetics. Storage is usually the most coveted aspect of a small kitchen. Having space to store pots, pans, dishes, utensils and food is the key to functioning in a kitchen, whatever the size. Making sure to use vertical space as well as floor space will create many areas to stow and conceal items. Using the space above the refrigerator, in corners and above the countertop for extra cabinetry will add much more room, while helping to tie the look of the kitchen together. Don’t be afraid to use the negative space in a kitchen to house shelving units for food or small appliances. Having more room to store items leaves the countertops uncluttered, making the space appear larger than it is.
Small kitchens call for small appliances. MR Direct suggests scaling down the sink, faucet, dishwasher and range in order to keep a ‘normal’ sized refrigerator. In a small kitchen, appliances must fit the space like pieces of a puzzle. While having large items would be ideal, it is not realistic. Opt for the smaller microwave and other petite appliances, as they will be taking up valuable counter space.
Lighting is one of the most important parts of design in any room of the house. In small kitchens, however, it may be the most important. Placing lights in the proper areas will help to make the space look larger and provide the right amount of light to accomplish necessary tasks. Under-cabinet lighting is very important to small kitchen design as it utilizes otherwise wasted space and creates lighting for cramped areas, allowing the space to be more functional and workable. In small kitchens lucky enough to have a window, using the natural light will help to save money and make the space seem larger. Placing lights above or in front of the window will also help to draw the eye outdoors, appearing endless.
To tie all of these elements of a small kitchen together are the necessary design aesthetics that create illusions and charm in tiny spaces. Creating an interesting pattern on the wall space will help to draw the eye in and around the room. Expanding the tile backsplash, paint or wallpaper into the next room will create the illusion that the room is larger than it is. Also, tiles laid on a diagonal or floorboards placed running the long way of the room will trick the mind into thinking the kitchen isn’t that small. Light colors and bold decorations form an airy and fun environment that most small kitchens crave.
Remember, a small kitchen should primarily be used as a kitchen instead of the ‘room-of-all-trades.’ Designate other areas of the home for paying bills, schoolwork, laundry and computer usage. Doing this will keep the kitchen clean and free of human traffic.
With all of these tips in mind, designing a small kitchen area should be a breeze. By putting extra thought into these issues, one could create the sophisticated, yet alluring kitchen of their dreams.