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Health & Fitness

Small Kitchens

Making the Most of Close Quarters Kitchens

In a small kitchen every inch counts.  Here are ten design tips to help you make the most of your not so big kitchen especially if you can’t add square footage to
your room.  

  1. Explore repurposing underutilized spaces adjacent to your kitchen.  Perhaps an inefficient or seldom used closet can be replaced for better use directly inside the kitchen space.
  2. Create more storage area by having your wall cabinets go up to the ceiling.  You will gain more storage overhead by eliminating unnecessary open or closed soffits.
  3. Select appliances that aren’t too big for your kitchen.  Right size appliances allow your kitchen to still have necessary counter working areas.
  4. Expand with natural light.  Maximizing natural light & taking advantage of outdoor views can help your kitchen feel larger and more spacious.
  5. Add glass patio or French doors to an outdoor deck or patio so you can add
    another dining area when the weather permits.
  6. Look into removing non-load bearing walls that currently enclose your
    kitchen.  Removing non-load bearing walls will give you a more open concept, contemporary layout and allow more natural light to permeate into your kitchen. 
  7. Keep it light.  Lighter finishes help kitchens feel bigger.
  8. Consider having glass front cabinets since they add a sense of depth to a small or narrow kitchen.
  9. Select a smaller dining table and chairs to best fit your close quarters.  Perhaps have a table that easily hinges closed to allow more space when a tabletop is not needed.
  10. Consider whether a more efficient layout can work better for your small space.  Work with a design professional to get the best possible layout and improve your kitchen’s functionality.

  Ira A. Henowitz Architect

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