As bespoke kitchen designers, we understand that limited kitchen space does not equate to limits on style. Whilst many homeowners with small kitchens will opt for a perfectly metropolitan styling, others take a diversion from standard aesthetics, playing with light and colour to create a unique kitchen interior. However, whilst you should allow your style to take you where you want to go, our kitchen designers do have a few key tips to ensure you maximise your space.
U-Shape
Designing your small kitchen layout can give you brain strain, so go easy on yourself and opt for the tried and tested U shape layout. This popular layout means it is easy to create a functional space and if the space allows, add in a breakfast bar and bar stools. Galley kitchens are also a great option for small kitchens.
Insiders Tip
You know your kitchen is small, but did you know it has negative space? Negative space is the designer term for opening up spaces which would be otherwise closed off. Think glass cabinets, doors and tables.
Define Space
Get in the zone! Your kitchen needs to be multifunctional so it can accommodate the cooking, washing, eating and much more. Try to create different spaces for those activities, by using multi levelled surfaces, different materials and lights. Sometimes it might be necessary to double up.
Illuminating Ideas
Pint size kitchens can sometimes be dark but good lighting will open up the area and help illuminate work spaces.
Choose Carefully!
A British interior designer once said, “ Have nothing in your houses that you do not know to be useful or believe to be beautiful”. Take note of this sentiment when you decide on how to configure your kitchen. Large spaces may be able to accommodate more, but do you really need an ice maker, two dishwashers and an enclosed dumb waiter….look it up, it really exists!
Space Saving Storage
You may have chosen the most glossy kitchen cabinetry, complete with low level LED plinth lights, but did you know that when it comes to beautiful small kitchens, it’s whats on the inside that counts. Think about it, you have selected your beautiful fully fitted kitchen and your eager to show it off, but you’re struggling to find space for all your kitchenalia! What should you do?
Well, you could keep calm and have a tupperware party, but as experienced kitchen designers we have a whole range of other solutions ready for you. When designing a small kitchen, some buyers are keen to fill their space with as many cupboards as possible, but this causes a cramped aesthetic. Instead opt for magic corners storage, tambour shutter to hide clutter and splash backs with hanging rails.
