Expert tips for making the best of a small kitchen
Sometimes ‘‘too many cooks in the kitchen’’ can mean the kitchen itself is too small. But, ‘‘a compact space doesn’t mean culinary dreams should be discarded,’’ says kitchen designer Toni Roberts of Kitchen Architecture Ltd.
Layout
‘‘The secret is understanding the dynamics of a kitchen’s workflow,’’ says Roberts. Ask yourself: Where will each task be done and what does each part need in terms of storage, shelving, drawers and lights?
Interior designer Nicola Manning suggests the best layout for a small kitchen is a galley style, which normally features two parallel walls, with the kitchen benches, cabinets and storage on either side. ‘‘This means you don’t have any awkward corners and gives you full access to all parts of the kitchen,’’ she says.
A one-wall kitchen is compact and space-saving but it can lack bench space. A kitchen island trolley on wheels will provide the extra bench space needed for food prep and can be rolled away and stored when not in use.
Storage:
‘‘Every centimetre of a small kitchen must be utilised to its full extent,’’ says Manning. She suggests taking overhead and full height cupboards all the way to the ceiling. Use the toe-kick space under the cupboards as storage for platters or trays and full extension internal drawers within cupboards maximise quantity of storage.
Shelving could be your key to keeping clutter off the bench.
Benchtop
Roberts ensures there are at least two bench zones for food prep and plating up and an additional zone for drink making. Manning suggests using a sink that has accessories such as a chopping board that can fit over top, to increase bench space. An induction stove provides more flat surface for a bench.
Keeping bench space clear is vital so build the microwave into the wall instead of having it on the bench. And while we’re tucking things away, it’s best to create an ‘‘appliance garage’’, a cupboard for the toaster, kettle, coffee machine and blender.
Colour
Light colours will make a space feel bigger and making your cabinetry and walls the same colour will create a visually larger space. ‘‘This might create a soulless kitchen, so balance this risk with the use of texture and colour,’’ says Roberts.
Lighting
A layout that will make the ceiling feel taller and the corners of the room softer will create the illusion of more space.