W
hether you live in tight quarters or, like many Americans, have a smaller, secondary kitchen in your home, there are strategies for making the most of compact cooking areas, none of which involve compromising style or functionality.
Use smart storage
Sneak in extra storage in unexpected places without contributing to kitchen clutter. Install pull-out cabinets. Use an over-the-sink dish drying rack. Mount a magnetic knife sheaf to your backsplash. Use a rolling storage cart that can be moved out of the way when needed, being sure to opt for one with a wooden top to boost your counter real estate. All these solutions will help free up more of your workspace, ensuring you have plenty of room to chop, mix and stir.
Go multifunctional
Top-notch appliances don’t need to be huge to provide professional-style performance. It’s all about finding models that offer multifunctionality.
Get creative
It’s a good idea to get a bit creative about where appliances will fit in your compact kitchen.
Build upward
Don’t forget to think about your kitchen from a vertical perspective. This can help you maximize every square inch of the room. Add hooks to the upper areas of your walls, or even hang items from the ceiling. Put seasonal tools and ingredients up on the highest shelves and rotate them as needed. A small, foldable stepstool takes up almost no storage space but can help you reach those seldom-used items when it’s time.
A cozy kitchen is no cause for distress. Whether it’s throwing an elaborate dinner party or cooking for a busy family, you can get a lot done in your smaller kitchen with wise appliance choices and creative storage solutions.
