In a small kitchen, space is at premium so what are the “must-haves†for a small kitchen?
A common problem we hear often is that the kitchen space is simply too small. This can understandably be found in apartments, townhouses and occasionally units. These smaller homes have less space to work with across the board. But, sometimes standalone houses have small kitchens too. Storage is usually people’s first concern when it comes to fitting out a new kitchen. They want to be able to get as much into their space as possible.
Here are some of the most important features to include:
Kickboard Drawers
Using the space inside the kickboards opens up storage for thin/flat items such as platters, baking trays, wine bottles, pet food, etc. The kickboard space can also be integrated into the bottom of the drawer above it to give it extra depth for tall items such as deep pots or a mix master.
Cabinets to the ceiling or extra overhead cabinets
In a lot of situations, the space between the top of the cabinets and the ceiling can be utilised for storage too. Depending on the ceiling height, an extra cabinet can be installed above or the cabinets can be made taller and finished with a bulkhead.
Maximum bench space (under bench oven, sink with accessories instead of drainer.)
Opting for an under bench oven can free up bench space. Also choosing a smaller sink or a sink without a drain-board will leave the bench clear. There are a lot of sink accessories on the market now that can make this a practical solution.
Drawers Throughout
Drawers double the storage capacity when compared to a standard cupboard with shelves, so having as many of these as possible is certainly the way to go.
Consider a corner unit or access to that cupboard from outside of the kitchen
In some kitchens, the best option might be to void out the corner completely to allow for more drawers. In other situations a corner solution can be very practical for extra items used less often. Alternatively, closing the access from the kitchen side and opening it from the outside of the kitchen can allow for more drawers inside while still making use of the corner.
Minimum fridge cavity size (based on fridge specs)
Based on the specifications of the fridge, a cavity can be built out of cabinetry (rather than a stud wall) to fit around it, leaving minimal gaps. This will allow for maximum storage.
Consider a different angle to the return bench to allow for more bench surface and storage
If the space allows for it, the return bench could be pushed out on an angle. This would allow for extra bench length as well as additional storage plus open up the kitchen floor space.
Drawers in pantry
Drawers inside the pantry make food items more accessible but also mean you can store more in the space by having the drawers closer together than you can have shelves.