Efficiency is Key to Small Kitchen Design
Renovators Place Columnist
Oct 08, 2009
Kitchen remodeling is challenging enough without the constraints of a small space. If your kitchen is space-challenged, try these tips for boosting the kitchen design.
This approach works best, however, if it does not require extensive rerouting of plumbing and electrical systems to keep the hutch in place.
A tiny kitchen may have space restrictions, but it doesn't have to have style restrictions.
Working With Existing Kitchen Design
If your kitchen design is not conducive to expansion, the key is to make the most use of existing elements. If the house already has a built-in hutch in the kitchen, the kitchen design can be configured to include the hutch. Here?s how:- Add new kitchen cabinets and a hardwood floor in colors and finishes that complement the hutch.
- Paint or stain the hutch with a color scheme that blends with the new kitchen cabinets.
This approach works best, however, if it does not require extensive rerouting of plumbing and electrical systems to keep the hutch in place.
Try Tall Kitchen Cabinets
If your kitchen has 9 or 10-foot ceilings, consider using 42-inch high kitchen cabinets to make full use of the higher ceiling. For efficiency, these kitchen cabinets also can be designed with:- Storage bins
- Lazy Susans
- Drawers for pots and pans
- Built-in spice racks
Plan Kitchen Appliances Carefully
While a small kitchen won't hold a large, 48-inch stainless steel appliance, it still can have the latest appliances with handy features. Look for:- Standard sized stainless steel appliances with computerized functions
- "Counter depth" kitchen appliances that align flush with the countertop, which adds a polished look and saves some visual space
Open the Space With Large Ceramic Tiles
On the floor, try using large ceramic tiles to make the space look larger and more open. If natural stone is part of the design theme, consider ceramic tiles with a stone look.Don't Forget the Decorations
Decorative elements, such as molding and special paint treatments, are particularly important for boosting a small kitchen design. Try adding:- One piece of decorative rope molding on top of the kitchen cabinets
- Rope lighting above the kitchen cabinets
- Faux finish painting on the wall behind the stove or in the breakfast nook
- Kitchen cabinet hardware in pewter, stainless steel, or brushed nickel
A tiny kitchen may have space restrictions, but it doesn't have to have style restrictions.
About the Author
Allison E. Beatty is a syndicated real estate writer and founder of www.renovatorsplace.com. She has been a writer of home improvement columns for 15 years. Her articles have appeared in numerous national newspapers and magazines, and on home improvement Web sites.Start Your Renovation Here!
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