Cooking in a small space can be chaotic and even stressful at times, especially if there are two cooks in the kitchen. If you often feel frustrated by your small kitchen design, take heart in knowing there are strategies you can implement to save space and make cooking enjoyable again.
photo credit: flickr/williamskitchen
- Utilize walls and ceilings
If your cabinets and drawers are full, turn to the walls and ceilings next for storage. I know many people use their countertops for storage and decoration purposes, but you’ll want as much counter space as possible for preparing meals. Hooks, racks and wall-mounted shelves will keep your kitchen organized without taking up useful surface space. - Invest in portable counter space
When cooking a large meal, it’s easy to run out of surface space. A rolling cart or portable kitchen island provides a place to set cutting boards and bowls, and it can be moved later when you no longer need it. - Downsize when and where you can
While a larger dishwasher might seem convenient, it also takes up a lot of useful space. If remodeling the kitchen isn’t in your future plans, consider investing in small appliances that allow you to enjoy a larger room. - Take advantage of space elsewhere to store rarely used dishware
Not all of your plates and serving platters need to be stored in the kitchen. If you have a larger dining room, set up a buffet table to store your “special occasion” dishware. - Try a few design tricks to make your kitchen appear bigger
Although these tricks won’t actually save space, I know of a few interior design tips that make any room instantly appear bigger. For example, let more natural light in or paint the walls a light color. A kitchen that feels roomier will be more comfortable.
A small kitchen usually isn’t favorable, but sometimes there is just no way around it. Work with the space you have and be smart about the storage solutions you use.