How To Make a Small Kitchen Functional

Anyone who has lived with a small kitchen knows that storage space and work space are often the most frustrating aspects when making the room work.  There are several ways to create a kitchen that is both functional and beautiful.  When we think about utilizing every inch we need to think vertically as well as horizontally.  We can go up and down as well as across the space.

The number one piece of advice I give to people is to think multifunctional.  When creating an eat in area you may want to consider creating a built in seating area with storage below.  This can be done by utilizing wall cabinets that come in a 24" height and then adding a base to them.  The height of most kitchen tables are 30" so the base would be 4" and the bench top 2" thick.  You can modify these dimensions to allow for a cushion  to be place comfortably on the bench.  The banquet pictured here utilizes pillows from a local discount store to add comfort and style. 

Most of these types of kitchens were built at a time that soffits were a popular design feature.  When thinking about adding storage space it is great when remodeling to remove the soffits so that cabinetry can span all the way to the ceiling.  This adds an additional 12" of storage space across the tops of the cabinetry.  It makes a difference when it comes to storing items that are not utilized daily.  This additional 12" can also become a decorative accent by adding glass fronts to the cabinetry only spanning the 12" at the top of the cabinet. 




http://www.mulletcabinet.com/gallery/121

The photograph above demonstrates this well.  Lighting was added which adds elegance if the storage is allotted for china, stem ware or pottery.

The work space can be addressed by strategically placing the appliances and the sink so that there is a span of counter top for prepping food.  It is important to have what I call "landing zones" in close proximity to the stove, microwave and refrigerator so that there is room to sit hot or heavy items when removing them from the appliances.  At least a foot to either side should be sufficient.  As you can see from the photos below, counter space was maximized and the "landing zones" preserved.

There are more options than appear at first glance.  Meeting with a design professional can help you to see the possibilities.