Small Kitchen Design that Works!

Chances are, if you have a minuscule kitchen you've been thinking a lot about small kitchen design. A small kitchen doesn't have to be frustrating to work in, not if it's well designed and built to be functional. Even condo owners have managed to turn their small kitchens into enjoyable work spaces with some minimal renovations that make a world of difference.

The biggest complaint that small kitchen owners have is the lack of cabinet space. Where on earth do you store all the cans, cereal boxes, small appliances and cleaning supplies? There are a number of solutions available. When installing new cabinets make sure they extend all the way to the ceiling. Granted, the higher levels will be more difficult to access but keeping a small stepladder nearby solves that problem. Especially if you only use the higher shelves to store seldom needed items. Check online for great small kitchen cabinet design ideas. Don't be afraid to store some items outside of the kitchen. There's no reason placemats or that bread maker you only use once a month can't be moved to a hall cupboard. How about pantries? One kitchen pantry can take the place of many smaller cupboards. It's not unusual to see beautiful armoires used as beautiful kitchen furniture as well.

Light Up Your Small Kitchen Design Ideas

Light your kitchen appropriately. Avoid fluorescent lights. Recessed lights are a great choice. Pendant lights are probably not the best choice for a small kitchen. They can make it look more cluttered, which is something you very much want to avoid. Make sure counter tops and the sink are well lit. Opaque materials increase the illusion of space so if you can use opaque inserts in front of the cabinets, you'll find the kitchen will look more open. Mirrored back splashes created the illusion of more space and light colors are better than dark hues.

If you can fit an island into your small kitchen designs, make it one with stools that can easily be pushed under the island when not in use. Perhaps you could buy a smaller round kitchen table as well. Think about an open plate rack on the wall to save space, and install wall racks for utensils and spices. You have an advantage if your small kitchen boasts a high ceiling. High ceilings create an airy spacious feel even the smallest kitchen.

Traditionally, most small kitchen design plans revolve around a triangle. The three points are the sink, stove and fridge. These are the most important elements in a kitchen and easy access to each of the three corners is imperative. However, in a very small kitchen it pays to look for slightly smaller than average appliances. Especially if you are cooking for just one or two people. Some people tend to eat out often and don't need large appliances to store food and cook, so your kitchen design also depends on what type of person you are. Stoves built right into countertop are an excellent use of space and microwaves stored up and off the countertops increase working space as well.

Small kitchen design plans should start by considering your needs in the kitchen. What frustrates you most in your current small kitchen? How much space do you need for garbage and recycling? Do you bake a lot? How much storage do you need? Work backwards from your needs to the finished kitchen design.

There is helpful software available in order to better design your efficient small kitchen. Or seek the advice of an experienced contractor. He or she will have some great small kitchen design ideas. Nothing improves the resell value of your home like a great looking, modern kitchen. Even a small kitchen. With a good small kitchen design you can create a functional attractive kitchen that will be pleasure to work in for as long as you own your home.