Small kitchen spaces can make life challenging for homeowners. According to The Spruce, the average kitchen size in the US is 161-169 square feet. These numbers are applicable to homes sized between 1,500 and 4,000 square feet. However, the kitchen size in homes smaller than 1500 square feet is just 103 square feet.
Imagine fitting in your culinary adventures and family conversations in a cramped space. You may feel frustrated and stressed, and cooking mishaps are more frequent in small areas. Fortunately, thoughtful design, clever organization, and a focus on function and aesthetics can help you address the concern.
In this article, we will share a few design tips to maximize every inch of your compact kitchen.
Declutter and Organize
A clutter-free kitchen feels larger and functions better. However, clutter is something a large chunk of the population struggles with. A recently published article in Yahoo stated that the US is in a clutter crisis. The problem is so extensive that the country spends a hefty $10 billion annually on off-site storage.
Committing to regular purging is the best solution, particularly for homeowners struggling with space limitations. Start by removing unused gadgets, expired food, and duplicate utensils in your kitchen. Keep only what you use regularly within easy reach, and store seldom-used items elsewhere.
Remember to get rid of outdated and defective devices as a part of the decluttering spree. This way, you will not feel the pain of purging. Organizing what you want to keep is equally important. Use drawer dividers, shelf risers, and organizers to keep everything in its place.
Invest in Smart Storage
According to Better Homes & Gardens, storage can be a savior for small and cluttered kitchens. Ideally, every cup, dish, and lid should have a designated home. This will resolve the space issue and make cooking easier, regardless of the size of your kitchen. The good thing is that there are several budget-friendly storage solutions homeowners can consider.
For example, pull-out pantry cabinets keep essentials in easy reach while overhead cabinets are best for storing infrequently used items. Corner cabinets with Lazy Susans are good for making hard-to-reach corners usable. Integrate microwaves or dishwashers into cabinetry for a seamless look and space efficiency. Fit narrow pull-outs in tight spaces for spices or baking sheets.
Under-sink organizers such as sliding trays and adjustable shelves can be used to store cleaning supplies. Open shelving can also create an airy feel and keep everyday items within reach. However, you must avoid overcrowding shelves to maintain a tidy appearance.
Prioritize Safety
Kitchen safety is a big concern as mishaps can happen at any time. The US Fire Administration notes that 167,800 residential building cooking fires were reported in 2023. Sadly, these led to 125 deaths in the country. Besides fire, other risks in the cooking zone include falls, spills, and cuts. Another big question: can a pressure cooker explode? Unfortunately, yes it can happen.
TorHoerman Law reports that many leading brands like Instant Pot and Crock-Pot have been recalled due to device defects. Some have even been held legally responsible with victims filing lawsuits against them. The best piece of advice is to keep an eye on recalls and avoid such appliances.
Some design ideas can also promote safety in a small kitchen. Rounded corners on countertops and cabinets help prevent injuries. Ensure adequate lighting to reduce accidents. Strategically placed outlets minimize the use of extension cords and prevent falls. Proper ventilation is vital in small kitchens.
Pick the Colors Wisely
According to Southern Living, interior color is perhaps the best way to tackle the small space problem in a home. All you need to do is to give your kitchen a paint refresh with a light hue that creates an impression of a bigger space.
Muted tones such as white, cream, or pale gray can add a feel of spaciousness to a small kitchen. Opt for glossy finishes on cabinets or backsplashes as they reflect light. If you prefer color, use it as an accent rather than painting all the walls.
Optimize lighting to add to the visual charm of your kitchen. Bring in a pop of green with small plants on the windowsills and countertops. You can even create a tiny vertical garden on a corner shelf.
