Got a tiny kitchen that feels like it’s bursting at the seams?
Designing small kitchens is a unique challenge, since every inch is precious real estate. However, with careful planning and smart strategies in place, a small kitchen remodel can be just as functional as a larger space.
This article is all about helping you maximize that hard-earned square footage.
Contents
What you’ll learn:
- The Importance of Functionality in Small Kitchen Remodels
- Embracing the Smart Storage Revolution
- Functional Layout Changes That Make a Difference
- Design Elements for Optimal Functionality
The Importance of Functionality in Small Kitchen Remodels
The key to a successful small kitchen remodel? Functionality.
Having a beautiful kitchen means nothing if you can’t easily cook and clean in the space. This is where working with kitchen design Belfast professionals who specialize in small kitchens really pays off. Interior design services tailored to kitchen remodels have a keen eye for maximizing every nook and cranny.
The stats bear this out. Recent studies have found that minor kitchen renovations have an average ROI of 96%. Fewer home improvements can compare with that kind of bang for your buck.
Did you know that about 35% of homeowners increase the kitchen footprint during renovations. However, not all of us have the luxury of expanding square footage when renovating.
That means it’s even more important to optimize the space you’ve got.
Enter: smart functionality.
Embracing the Smart Storage Revolution
Storage is king when it comes to small kitchen remodels.
You simply don’t have a lot of cabinet space, countertop area, or let alone room for a pantry. But there are clever ways to make sure everything has a home.
Here are some ideas for storing smart:
● The higher up, the better. Floor-to-ceiling cabinets provide a lot more storage space than regular height units.
● Pull-outs make everything accessible. Pull-out pantries and corner carousels make it so you don’t have to spelunk into cabinets to get what you need.
● Vertical space is your friend. Magnetic knife strips, hanging pot racks and wall mounted shelves free up valuable counter space.
● Use the back of cabinet doors. The insides of cabinet doors are prime real estate for hooks and organizers.
Here’s a fun fact you might not know…
Focus on making everyday essentials accessible. No need to create storage for stuff you never use.
Functional Layout Changes That Make a Difference
Small kitchen functionality starts with the layout.
Something as simple as rearranging your existing setup can have a huge impact. The classic kitchen work triangle – between the sink, stove and fridge – needs to flow easily.
Here are some layout changes that really pay off:
● Remove upper cabinets on one wall to open up sightlines. This creates a feeling of openness.
● Designate zones for different tasks. When everything each zone needs is close at hand, you waste less time running all over the place.
● Add a rolling island or cart. This gives you flexible additional workspace.
You don’t always need to move plumbing or electrical to improve functionality. Rearranging can make a big difference.
Design Elements for Optimal Functionality
Let’s talk small kitchen remodels, design elements and how they impact functionality.
Light colours will always make your kitchen feel bigger. Whites, pale greys and soft neutrals bounce light and create the illusion of more space.
Other tricks include:
● Glossy surfaces reflect light. Try a glossy backsplash or glass cabinet doors to multiply light.
● Sleek hardware reduces visual clutter. Push-to-open cabinets have a cleaner look than big honking handles.
● Integrated appliances make everything flow. Panel-ready refrigerators that match your cabinetry create seamless continuity.
● Lighting is layered. Under-cabinet lights are great for task lighting while pendant lights add style.
Did you know that compact appliances can be just as functional as full-sized? Compact refrigerators, dishwashers and ovens give you all the functionality you need without hogging space.
The Multi-Function Mindset
Every element in a small kitchen remodel should have a purpose.
Single-function items waste valuable space. Look for ways that everything can do double or triple duty.
- Kitchen islands that have storage, seating and work surface.
- Cutting boards that fit over sinks for extra prep space.
- Appliance garages that hide small appliances while keeping them handy.
Custom built-ins designed around your needs are better than haphazard storage hacks.
Want to know something else a lot of people don’t realize…
Forty percent of home remodeling projects come in over budget. Plan for multi-functionality early so you don’t have to add things later and drive up costs.
Avoid These Mistakes
A few don’ts for small kitchen remodels to avoid:
● Decorative clutter. Fewer decorations in small kitchens. It has to pull double duty as decor.
● Ignoring kitchen work flow. Don’t be pretty at the cost of knocking things over when moving around.
● Style over substance. Trendy open shelving is only functional if you have enough closed storage.
● Lighting. Dark kitchens feel smaller. Good lighting at different levels is a must.
● Cheaper is not better. Everything in a small kitchen gets used all the time. Skip cheap cabinets that won’t last.
Small kitchen remodels take a bit more thought and planning than larger ones. You’re not just solving a puzzle – you’re making it work harder than a kitchen twice the size.
But when it all comes together? Magic happens.
Plan For You
Remember: your small kitchen remodel should be based on how you live and cook.
If you love to batch prep on weekends, you need serious storage for containers. Bake a lot? Built-in equipment storage is key. If you mostly whip up quick weeknight meals, easy access to everyday items is priority.
Interior design services can help you nail down these specific needs. Custom solutions that make sense for your lifestyle.
Small kitchens can be extremely functional with careful planning. Focus on smart storage solutions, efficient layout and multi-function design.
Wrap It Up
Functionality is king when it comes to small kitchen remodels.
Smart storage, clever layout changes and design elements that optimize space are key. Add multi-function features that make sure every item has a reason to be there.
The secret to a beautifully functional small kitchen? Start with its purpose, then layer on style elements.
When you plan for making your small kitchen work better for you, beauty becomes a natural by-product. Professional interior design services focused on kitchen remodels have the know-how to help you make the most of every inch.
Your well-designed, compact kitchen can outwork and outperform any poorly planned large one. It’s not about the square footage – it’s about making every inch do double or triple duty.
