A lot of smaller houses and apartments people move into these days were designed in a very different era. One in which: people didn't want any pesky bench space or light making anything too easy in their kitchens or appliances like microwaves and dishwashers didn't exist or there was an undocumented, nationwide competition between builders to see who could stuff the most plasterboard walls into the liveable areas of any given house. Exaggerating a bit perhaps, but there's almost always a wealth of opportunity to make older kitchens in smaller Australian houses and apartments far more conducive to sanity, comfort and convenience. Kitchen improvements like these will make a big difference to resale value too. Pick smartly when it comes to a designer and choose someone you are comfortable communicating with. Also, before you kick start the entire project look around and do ample research on kitchen models across design sites on the internet, which will give you fresh new ideas you can incorporate in your kitchen renovation plans.
Bring in more natural light: The more light you can get in a small kitchen, the better - and natural light is excellent for this purpose. Nice big windows are the best way to go, so if you can increase the size of the window in your kitchen this is a great start (although it's a pretty complicated thing to do). Even if you can't do that, removing overhead cabinets that directly flank your kitchen window on either side can help disperse light more evenly. A roof window / skylight can make a massive difference too, if you've got the budget for it.
Remove doors: Surprising how often we see doors that open into small kitchens, eating up valuable space. You can take most doors off in about three minutes with a screwdriver and someone else to help you hold the door. If you'd prefer not to do that, a sliding or pocket door - or at least one that opens outwards - will be a better choice.
Get smaller or multifunction appliances: If you're not planning on cooking for an army, a full sized oven or dishwasher is going to take up more than its fair share of precious space. Look into appliances that'll realistically suit your needs. Sometimes a good convection microwave might be all that's needed - and if you don't cook a lot, you mightn't need a dishwasher at all.
Slide-away benches: In really small spaces, extra benches that fold or slide out from under the main bench can make a huge difference to how easy it is to use your kitchen. Never underestimate how useful a single, extra surface can be. Always plan for a reasonably sized fridge: The fridge is likely to be the biggest appliance in the kitchen - but unless your place is a 15 square metre micro-studio apartment, you shouldn't make the mistake of only allocating enough space for a bar fridge. Remember to allocate space for bins and compost: Being serious with how space is allocated is one thing, but don't forget to leave room (even if it's just a narrow cupboard or 20cm of floor space near the door) for rubbish and compost bins.
Bring in more natural light: The more light you can get in a small kitchen, the better - and natural light is excellent for this purpose. Nice big windows are the best way to go, so if you can increase the size of the window in your kitchen this is a great start (although it's a pretty complicated thing to do). Even if you can't do that, removing overhead cabinets that directly flank your kitchen window on either side can help disperse light more evenly. A roof window / skylight can make a massive difference too, if you've got the budget for it.
Remove doors: Surprising how often we see doors that open into small kitchens, eating up valuable space. You can take most doors off in about three minutes with a screwdriver and someone else to help you hold the door. If you'd prefer not to do that, a sliding or pocket door - or at least one that opens outwards - will be a better choice.
Get smaller or multifunction appliances: If you're not planning on cooking for an army, a full sized oven or dishwasher is going to take up more than its fair share of precious space. Look into appliances that'll realistically suit your needs. Sometimes a good convection microwave might be all that's needed - and if you don't cook a lot, you mightn't need a dishwasher at all.
Slide-away benches: In really small spaces, extra benches that fold or slide out from under the main bench can make a huge difference to how easy it is to use your kitchen. Never underestimate how useful a single, extra surface can be. Always plan for a reasonably sized fridge: The fridge is likely to be the biggest appliance in the kitchen - but unless your place is a 15 square metre micro-studio apartment, you shouldn't make the mistake of only allocating enough space for a bar fridge. Remember to allocate space for bins and compost: Being serious with how space is allocated is one thing, but don't forget to leave room (even if it's just a narrow cupboard or 20cm of floor space near the door) for rubbish and compost bins.
About the Author:
Loreley G. Weidner has spent the past 10 years helping individuals choose the best Home remodelling carpenters. He now uses his experience and expertise to assist groups in short-listing the leader in Kitchen and Bathroom remodelling for them. If you would like to learn more about Top Custom Bathroom Vanities he suggests you click here to learn more.