Whether you are living in an apartment, or working with a smaller cellar kitchen in an older house, you don’t have to overlook design. Here’s our advice for working with your narrow kitchen …
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In this day and age, most of us live with smaller kitchens, but no matter the layout, you don’t have to forgo your unique design taste for the sake of a small space. That being said, it’s important to make the configuration of your kitchen work, so make sure to consider practicality and function in the planning process. We’ve got you covered – see our recommendations below.
A PLACE FOR EVERYTHING
Interior designer Sara Cosgrove is a firm believer in a de-cluttered space, no matter how much surface area you have – but it is especially important in a narrow kitchen. Effective storage is key. This will make the space feel more open. Think about what suits you, whether you want a magnetic knife holder, a rail for mugs and pots, a half-shelf over the hob, or a clean line of cabinetry. She loves the slide and hide doors in Neff ovens, so you don’t have to worry about handles jutting out.
MAKE EVERY SECTION COUNT
Slot cookbooks into shelves at the end of the cabinet row, place plants overhead and incorporate breadboards into the cabinetry design. A narrow kitchen means getting creative with ergonomics – talk to the kitchen experts if you need help, we certainly do. www.uncommonprojects.co.uk
A PANTRY PLACE
Incorporating one large cabinet to display anything and everything within reach is especially effective in a smaller space. If you have the ceiling height, design a bespoke pantry with the type of shelving or drawers you need. www.oconnorsofdrumleck.ie
LIGHT AND BRIGHT
The more open it feels the better. Step one is open shelving if that works for you, while step two is light. If there’s a window at the end of the room, make sure you can open it! It would surprise you how many people don’t open their kitchen window, or cover them with blinds. Another method for helping the space feel bright is through layered lighting such as small tabletop lamps mentioned above, a warm yellow ceiling light or under cabinet lighting for a modern feel. www.themodernhouse.com
GALLEY KITCHEN
A glass door with natural light into the kitchen also makes it feel spacious and airy. See more on galley kitchens here. www.devolkitchens.co.uk
OPEN PLAN
No matter the size, our experts advise always zoning off the kitchen from the living area. Be it through a half-wall, reeded glass, a sliding door or a piece of furniture – you want to make sure these areas are kept separate, so you’re not looking in on your food preparation area as you watch TV! See Inside This Transformed Tiny Cottage for more inspiration. www.aprilandthebear.com
SMART SEATING
When designing a small space, it can be hard to know where to place seating. A tall table for two fits suitably in a small space, with tall stools propped up against the counter, while banquette seating or a breakfast nook also works well. If you have a vision, incorporate a bespoke piece of furniture made for you, which is a practical and sustainable choice for unusual kitchen spaces. www.themodernhouse.com
APPLIANCES FOR YOUÂ
In the planning process, make sure you choose appliances that you will actually use. If you love coffee, incorporate a Siemens built-in coffee machine. This will save space on the counter and means you still get your quaility coffee service station in the comfort of your own home! It is particularly important in smaller kitchens to decide what appliances you need before you start the redesign. If it isn’t in use often, then it has no place in your kitchen. See some expert advice here. www.siemens-home.bsh-group.com
PERSONAL TOUCHES
Add an easy-to-clean rug, a small tabletop lamp for a touch of layered lighting, or place artwork and your favourite mementos on exposed shelving. This will add some personality to brighten up the space and make it your happy place! www.neptune.com
