5 Smart Ways to Open Up a Small Kitchen

June 30, 2010

A tight kitchen space can feel constricting for homeowners, and may be one of the first areas of the home you want to improve. Fortunately, a kitchen remodel is one of the best ways to increase the resale value of your home. You can revamp your kitchen without spending a lot of money, even if some remodelling is involved. Read on for ideas to add space, or just the illusion of space, to your small kitchen.

Remove Upper Cabinets

Taking out top cabinets in a kitchen usually creates at least a foot of extra space around the room, right at eye level. If you cringe at the idea of losing valuable storage space, rest assured that there are other smart storage solutions that won't cramp your kitchen style. Hanging pot racks on the walls and making room for storage under kitchen counters are just a couple of alternatives.

Create Open Shelving

In place of those top cabinets, you can try open shelving or glass cabinet shelving. The simple act of replacing wooden cabinet doors with glass doors, or removing the doors completely, can do wonders for opening up the flow of a room. As an added bonus, you can show off your prettiest plates and cookware.

Multi-Tasking Space

If a dining table in your kitchen is taking up valuable space, consider removing it. A kitchen island can double as a table with a couple of chairs that can be moved out of the way when necessary. Even a small prep area in the kitchen can double as eating space.

An Island Alternative

Your small kitchen may not accommodate an island, but could you make room for a peninsula? A kitchen peninsula is like an island, but attached to one wall. It could be just large enough for an extra sink with under-counter storage, or it could be larger if your kitchen allows. Ideally, the peninsula can be accessed from both sides to make the most of the space.

Lose a Wall

As remodelling goes, simply knocking down a wall is a lot less expensive than adding on space. If you remove a wall that connects to the dining room, for example, you could create a more functional flow for cooking and eating. Even a half-wall between the kitchen and another room can improve the flow of your home, especially if it opens up a view to the outdoors.