#1. Choose open cupboards
One of the biggest problems with small kitchens is that they might feel rather claustrophobic because there are too many cupboards stuffed into this limited space. Removing them is usually not an option, because there are many items that must be stored in the room. Open cupboards offer an efficient solution to this problem because they don’t create such a ‘boxed’ feeling. These storage areas also provide you with the opportunity to use fancy jars, glasses, and china as decorations.
#2. Add a kitchen island
Small kitchens don’t offer enough counter space to work on comfortably. A kitchen island can solve the problem of having a working surface, but such a major construction job will work only if the room’s design is minimalistic.
The counter of the piece must be white (preferably marble) and its bottom must be open. This way, the island won’t seem ‘cumbersome’.
#3. Mix materials to create interesting designs
Limited space doesn’t allow you much room for creating a beautiful interior. You can make up for this by mixing a variety of materials and playing on the differences in textures and colors. Every functional part of the room (cupboard doors, countertops, lighting, ceiling, windows, flooring, and fixtures) should be treated as an important element of design. Keep this in mind when studying the materials from your kitchen remodeling contractor and look for interesting combinations. Remember that in order to be attractive, the final look must be ‘unified’ in either color or style.
#4. Opt for original and moveable seating
Even if you live in the apartment alone, you might want to entertain your guests in the kitchen at some point. Therefore, seating is essential, but benches and chairs take up too much space. There are a few solutions to this issue. You can choose moveable benches and chairs that can stay in the living room or some other part of your home until you need them. In this case, you will need to lug them around the house when preparing to meet your guests.
If you prefer to have fixed barstools at your kitchen island, you will need to choose ones that are tiny, but big enough to seat an adult. Choose options made from transparent materials so they give the illusion of a spacy room.
#5. Incorporate glass details
Glass is the best material for small kitchens as it allows you to create an illusion of space. You can install glass counters, cabinet doors, or a kitchen door. Depending on your floor plan, you might be able to install a window into the next room as a part of your kitchen home remodeling project. This will give the space a ‘lighter’ look, especially with strategically installed lighting.
#6. Add a splash of color
If the kitchen is small, a single brightly-colored detail can help expand it visually. It will draw the eyes constantly, fooling the mind into believing that the space surrounding this ‘centerpiece’ is bigger than it actually is.
Note that this piece doesn’t have to be located in the center of the room. For example, you can install a bright orange cabinet in a kitchen of white and muted grays. A few smaller accents in the matching shade will complete the design.
#7. Expand the space with lighting
There are hundreds of original lighting fixtures that can help transform the space completely. Your kitchen remodeling contractors should offer some ideas on how to use them most efficiently in your particular case. For example, installing incandescent lighting underneath the hanging cabinets will ‘counteract’ the cold and bluish fluorescent or LED main lights, making the space seem cozier. Hanging lights over the eating area will visually ‘lift’ the ceiling.
#8. Install top-quality flooring
Efficient and beautiful flooring is vital for a small kitchen. Opt for a checkered pattern as it’s eye-catching and can expand the space visually. As the room is small, you should be able to afford premium-quality materials.
