More Efficient Kitchen
Naveen Kumar
| 08-10-2023
· Lifestyle Team
Many people often find their kitchen space too limited, hindering their culinary experience.
With some creative solutions, it is possible to make the most of the available space and create an efficient and enjoyable kitchen environment.
Expanding a small kitchen space and ensuring convenience during cooking and storage can be achieved through thoughtful space layout and strategic utilization of available areas.
1. Optimize Cabinet Depth:
Standard kitchen cabinets usually have a depth of 600MM, but you can increase storage capacity by adding a row of unconventional depth cabinets, measuring around 300MM.
This additional space is perfect for storing tableware and dishes, as they fit comfortably on the narrow countertop. For L-shaped kitchens, consider adding small side cabinets to make the most of the cabinet area.
Ensure that the aisle between cabinets is at least 760 to 910MM wide, or 1200MM if two people need to pass through comfortably.
2. Utilize a Kitchen Cart:
A mobile cart can be a game-changer for small kitchens. The beauty of a kitchen cart lies in its mobility.
The cart's height makes it ideal for cutting vegetables, and its lower shelves provide temporary storage for dishes, serving as a versatile mobile cabinet.
3. Make Use of Higher Cabinets:
There are often underutilized spaces in the kitchen, such as corners. Consider installing higher cabinets in these areas to create additional storage space. High cabinets can hold appliances like kettles, juicers, and more.
Additionally, ovens and microwaves can be embedded vertically in high cabinets, freeing up valuable space in the lower cabinets. To maximize functionality, use high cabinets to store snacks, drinks, and other less frequently used items.
4. Utilize Vertical Space:
When installing hanging cabinets, ensure they reach the ceiling. This prevents wasted space between the top of the cabinet and the ceiling. While accessing the topmost shelves might be less convenient, they are perfect for storing lightweight items or items used infrequently.
A small step stool can come in handy for reaching these items when needed.
5. Utilize Drawers:
Incorporating drawers in your kitchen layout is a smart move, especially for small spaces. Drawers provide easy access to stored items, making them a more efficient option than traditional cabinets.
A key advantage of drawers is that they allow users to access items from the side, rather than having to squat down to reach items in lower cabinets. This feature saves valuable aisle space and prevents the kitchen from feeling cramped.
6. Transform Doors into Storage:
Make use of the space behind cabinet doors by adding narrow partitions and storage baskets. This transformation turns the open-door area into an organized storage space for vegetables, kitchen supplies, and cleaning tools.
The bottom of the cabinet can house storage baskets for various kitchen tools and accessories, effectively adding two areas of storage within the kitchen.