Many people in Chicago think that just because they have small kitchen designs, they can’t create a large space. False. The truth is, we’ve seen tiny kitchens that feel more spacious than kitchens twice their size. It’s all about how you work with the space you have.
Standard-Sized Appliances
Our first recommendation for clients with small kitchen designs is to use standard-sized appliances. Oftentimes, counter space is an issue. Limit yourself to standard sized appliances and you’ll be off to a good start!
Multi-Use Appliances
Speaking of appliances, get more bang for your buck and buy multi-use appliances. Microhoods are great examples. Instead of buying a microwave and installing a hood above your stove, combine the two appliances in a microhood. Another option if you are wanting a second oven is to consider a convection microwave. This way you get the second oven but don’t lose some much needed storage space.
Diversify Your Lighting
Once you have your appliances under control, it’s time to turn your attention to lighting. The more lighting you have, the brighter (and larger) your space will be. It’s unlikely that you’ll get perfect lighting by using all overheads or all track lighting. Mix it up! Use a combination of track lighting, hanging lights, under cabinet lighting, countertop lamps, and natural light to develop a bright and welcoming kitchen design.
Brighter Paint, Cabinets, & Countertops
Speaking of light, try using brighter colors in your kitchen design. We always have to remind customers in the Chicago and North Shore area that “brighter” doesn’t mean “pastels” or “energetic colors.” There are plenty of wood stains, granite countertops, and natural stone backsplashes that are “brighter” without being bright yellow or red!
Bring Down Walls
Lastly, if at all possible, consider knocking out a wall and creating a second entryway into your kitchen. Additional space and entryways can make your kitchen seem much larger, even if it means sacrificing some storage space.
It’s important to consider what’s on the other side of those walls. If knocking down a kitchen wall results in your kitchen being adjacent to a utility room, for example, then you might end up finding that additional cabinet space is just a few steps away!
What tips do you have for getting extra space out of small kitchen designs?
