Efficiency Tips for Smaller Kitchen Remodels
Most people enjoy as much space as they can have in their homes. However, some living spaces, such as condos and duplexes, can have limited space. Individuals are also now trending towards “tiny homes” for the efficiency of the upkeep these provide.
This does not mean that individuals who have small kitchens do not like to cook or entertain, but they do need to optimize the space with the right type of remodeling. Cabinetry and appliances make a huge difference in smaller kitchens, adding to the enjoyment of cooking and entertaining.
- Cabinet Ideas for Smaller Kitchens
Exploring cabinet styles, such as the Shaker style, have a recessed design adding to the open workspace. “Lazy Susans,” which are carousel types of cabinets, were popular in each kitchen decades ago and are making a comeback as many items can be stored on this type of revolving cabinetry addition.
Pull-out cabinets save space as well and allow homeowners to reach small appliances and other stored items without kneeling or bending to access them. Open shelves can be placed anywhere in a kitchen, and cabinets are indeed open, allowing for more space than if a door-style cabinet is installed.
Vertical types of cabinetry rather than horizontal styles can miraculously free up more space than one might expect and are installed in a “step-ladder” effect.
Of course, as a previous blog post mentioned, “appliance garages” make a huge difference in reducing countertop clutter. These “appliance garages” are built-in spaces where appliances are “parked” and are a nifty idea, especially for smaller kitchens.
- Appliance Ideas for Smaller Kitchens
Appliances take up a great deal of space in a kitchen and with a smaller kitchen space, the choice of appliances makes a big difference in workspace within a kitchen. Enter the “built-ins.”
Popular over a decade or two ago, these are making a huge comeback as homeowners switch to smaller residences, whether to downsize or simply have less work to do on a property.
From compact built-in dishwashers, which do the same job as full-sized ones, to mini-built-in refrigerators, a good kitchen remodeler will take into consideration the space and functionality.
Convection ovens, which oftentimes are included in full-sized stoves and the love of the culinary field, can be used alone without a full-sized stove and built into a cabinet or on a shelf on a countertop. Combine these with an air fryer on cabinet shelving and an actual full-sized stove may not be necessary!
Combination microwave/convection ovens are also gaining popularity for space-saving, and washer/dryer stackable combos are taking over the need for large washers and dryers.
All the above not only save space but also save energy and the environment, and many homeowners now, even with larger spaces, are jumping onto the smaller kitchen space money-saving type of remodel that is gaining traction!
