Ideas for Remodeling a Small Kitchen

When you are a dealing with a small kitchen space, there are two keys to remember while remodeling. The keys are to maximize the space you have with appliance choices that reflect your needs but no more, and to illuminate the space you do possess in a manner that will emphasize every square foot of your kitchen.

The first thing you can do when remodeling your small kitchen is to introduce natural light into the room. Replacing old runner style windows with taller crank-out style windows will let in plenty of light and also capture outside air to ventilate your kitchen area. An abundance of natural light in your kitchen during the daytime will help your space seem as open and airy as possible. The introduction of a steady flow of outdoor air will also keep your kitchen's oxygen well-circulated and prevent odors from building up.

A space saving idea when remodeling your kitchen is to replace your older sink and cabinet combinations with a corner sink. If a corner isn't available, and your remodeling plan doesn't include movement of existing plumbing, then a newer sink with a lesser basin depth from the counter-edge to the wall can be selected. Also consider purchasing a drain rack that hangs over half of the rinse-off side of your sink. This will help prevent any of your precious counter-space from being monopolized unnecessarily.

Unless your floor area is restricted, exchanging your existing stove for a countertop electric stove is a good move. New cabinet space can be handily added underneath where the countertop stove sits. An island stove with added workspace can also change your traditional small kitchen into a wonder of modern appliances and, again, provide additional cabinet space. An extra note on cooking appliances is to also consider downsizing your microwave oven to an under-the-cabinet model to maximize your countertop space.

When remodeling your small kitchen, it is also a good idea to assess your refrigeration and freezer needs. Again, downsizing to a smaller energy-efficient model will not only save you space but also a noticeable amount on your energy costs. "Dorm-size" refrigerators are available in home improvement stores year round as well as in many mass merchandisers. The best deals can be had shortly after the school year begins.

A well-illuminated small kitchen will have the appearance of being larger due to a lack of darkened spaces. One of the better ways to achieve a well lighted room without dominating the area with exposed lighting is to install a small opaque lighting system designed for under the cabinet use. These lights will brighten your countertops while remaining hidden from view. Fluorescent overhead lighting fixtures are available in many styles and are a very energy efficient method of providing lighting. These can also be recessed in your ceiling to add additional ambience and depth to your limited space.

When it comes to outfitting your small kitchen, the sky really is the limit. Just because your kitchen space is small, your ideas don't have to be. Maximize the space you do have and make your kitchen appear larger through a combination of natural light, artificial light, and wise appliance choices.