Source: Unsplash | Le Creuset
If you’ve been thinking about remodeling your kitchen this year, don’t let the lack of square footage hold you back. A small kitchen can be an opportunity rather than a challenge. With the right approach, you can maximize storage, make the most of the floor space, and create an area that works for you.
This guide will provide some basic tips for remodeling small kitchens. Whether you are hunting for new kitchen cabinets in Des Moines or modern flooring in San Francisco, your new kitchen can feel stylish and deceptively spacious.
DO take advantage of vertical storage.
While your kitchen might feel like it lacks storage, there are ways to get creative with your space. Vertical storage can bring items off the floor and above eye level, creating the illusion of space. Try storing items on top of the kitchen cabinets, which is often unutilized. You can also purchase a tall, thin shelf to store food, dishware, and other items without using precious cabinet space. Many homeowners will also install a rack with hooks to hang pots and pans. All of these tricks can use wall space and taller shelves to store items in a functional way.
DON’T block the light.
Dark kitchens tend to look smaller. You can open up the space by incorporating as much natural light as possible. Install large windows and skylights to flood the space with sunlight and draw the eye outward. If you choose to install curtains, stick with sheer white fabric. If you need a bit of help spreading what little natural light you have, a large mirror can open the space as well.
DO stick with light colors.
Just as natural light opens a space, light colors will make your small kitchen look larger. Stick with white or beige paint colors, lighter floor colors, and bright counters. If you do want to incorporate a darker counter or cabinet color, offset the shades with white subway tiles. This contract creates depth. Otherwise, an all or mostly white kitchen can be highly effective in creating the illusion of space. For those craving some color, have fun with colorful accents throughout the room.
DON’T overwhelm the space with details.
Large kitchens can be full of details and decorative items without looking too cluttered. However, this is not the case with small kitchens. If you have a tiny space, minimal is generally best. This is why modern and industrial design is popular for many apartment or small-home kitchens. Stick with small, hanging light fixtures and simple decorations. Keep the counter space generally clear, shelves neat, and pantry items tucked away. You may then choose to decorate with plants, vases, or small countertop items.
DO minimize your belongings.
When you have less space, it’s generally best to have fewer possessions. The minimalist lifestyle isn’t for everyone, but those with small kitchens may benefit from owning fewer kitchen items. Go through your belongings and donate anything that you no longer use. On a larger scale, you can also do this with smaller kitchen appliances. Try to minimize the number of kitchen gadgets that you own, like panini makers and other items that have one purpose. Clearing out your kitchen will allow you to use your counter and storage space more intentionally.
With the right planning, you can create a small kitchen that fits your personal taste and lifestyle. Light and storage will be the foundation of the design, and you can make the most of these elements by minimizing your possessions. Following your remodel, you can enjoy a functional and stylish space for years to come.