How to Expand Counter Space in a Small Kitchen

Not everyone is fortunate enough to have a large kitchen with plenty of counter space. Some only have a section of counter spanning a wall on both sides of the sink, and this isn't usually isn't much space to work with. When considering the amount of room small appliances take up, as well other necessities, this doesn't leave a whole lot of room for food preparation or presentation.

Although you may be stuck with very little kitchen counter space, you can expand the area you have for food preparation and buffet-style service. It's really very easy to expand kitchen counter space when your kitchen is small, and the following information provides several easy and cost-effective ideas. I have a small kitchen, but I'm never lacking kitchen counter space.

Cabinet-Mounted Appliances

Counters can become quickly cluttered and disappear beneath dirty dishes and other necessities, especially in a small kitchen. When you're lacking counter space, the last thing you want to do is take up valuable space on the counter with small appliances such as a can opener, blender, or a toaster. Microwave ovens and toaster ovens take up even more space that could be used for food preparation and presentation.

Don't line your countertop with appliances. If you're stuck with very little counter space, invest in appliances that mount under kitchen cabinets. They may cost a little more than typical freestanding appliances, but they will expand your kitchen counter space and free up more room for food preparation and serving.

Transform the Top of Your Washer and Dryer

If your washer and dryer are in a closet in your kitchen, why not take advantage of the available space on top of your washer and dryer? Invest in a couple of large heat-resistant cutting boards, and store them next to your washer and dryer, or consider a large slab of granite or another type of countertop material. You can get countertop cutouts from construction companies and cabinet shops. Leftover pieces and the sections cutout to accommodate sinks are perfect to use as a cutting board as well as a makeshift counter when you want to expand the space in your kitchen.

Consider a Slate Sofa Table for the Dining Room

When your kitchen is small but your dining room is adequate you can take advantage of dining room space in an effort to expand your counter. If you want to create an impressive spread but don't have enough counter room, consider investing in a slate sofa table for the dining room. A sofa table is just the right height for serving food, and slate tiles are naturally heat-resistant. This is a great solution for those who want to expand kitchen counter space. You can fill the table with food, and people can easily serve themselves. This is especially helpful when entertaining company, and you'll free-up a considerable amount of counter space in your small kitchen.