Seven Tips for Remodeling a Small Kitchen

When remodeling a small kitchen, there are many ways to take advantage of its assets (including convenience and efficiency) and to overcome its liabilities (including lack of space and limited storage). Here are 7 tips for getting the most out of your small kitchen remodeling project.

1. Maximize the use of space. There are many ways to make the most of your small kitchen's space, no matter how limited. For example, install cabinets that go all the way to the ceiling (and invest in a sturdy step ladder so that you can easily and safely reach items on the highest shelves); where possible, choose appliances, like microwaves, that can be hung under cabinets, freeing up valuable counter space; and take advantage of under cabinet lighting options.

2. Create a feeling of openness. Be creative in finding ways to make your small kitchen appear to be larger and more open. For example, choose light or neutral colors for cabinets, counter tops and floors; opt for simple rather than ornate designs; avoid busy patterns; select over-the-counter cabinets with glass doors; and choose diagonal patterns for flooring (diagonals tend to create the illusion of space).

3. Go vertical. Wherever possible, hang pots, pans, utensils, oven mitts and other tools. Not only will this save space in a small kitchen, but it can become part of your decorating scheme and add to the warmth and charm of your kitchen. Also, attach hooks for coffee cups and mugs to the underside of some shelves in the cabinets where you store dishes.

4. Sneak in extra work space. Consider installing deeper than normal counter tops that will provide more work space. Also, if you don't have room for a built-in island in your small kitchen, you might be able to utilize a moveable butcher block table for those times, like Thanksgiving, when you need extra work space.

5. Take advantage of space-saving storage options. Lazy Susans, rollout shelves, tilt-out bins, plate racks, drawer dividers, wine racks, and kitchen cabinet door organizers are just a few of the options to maximize the use of limited storage space in a small kitchen.

6. Minimize clutter. Crowded counter tops not only can make your small kitchen feel claustrophobic but will make it less utilitarian as well, so go for the uncluttered look and limit the items on counter tops and work areas.

7. Choose compact appliances. Appliance manufacturers now offer a wider selection than ever of compact appliances that are attractive, practical and space saving and, as a result, are ideal for a small kitchen.

Sources:

James Mahoney, www.kitchendesignersideas.com, Small Kitchen Designs

Lee Dobbins, www.streetdirectory.com, Decorating Tips for a Small Kitchen