Hal Major © 2009
BobVilaContractors.com
Many home or condo owners may mistakenly think they need a cavernous space to create a beautiful kitchen. Anyone with an older home knows that kitchens have expanded over the years, and the average kitchen built today is now several hundred square feet larger than one built a few decades ago. But, bigger isn�t necessarily better, and there are many ways to turn your small kitchen into a showplace.
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The most obvious way to solve the problem of a small kitchen is to build a bigger one. Even if you can�t increase the footprint of your home or condo, you can steal space from underutilized areas, like a formal dining room, for example. Sometime just tearing down a wall can create the effect of more space. A licensed contractor or architect can advise you on what walls to move or tear down to make your small kitchen larger.
Put in Taller Cabinets
Just as putting a large sofa in a small room can create the illusion of a larger space, putting in tall cabinetry in a small kitchen can have a similar effect. Putting in floor-to-ceiling cabinets tricks the eye into thinking that the ceiling is higher than it actually is. Also, more cabinet space lets you store items that would normally sit on your countertops and make your kitchen look cluttered.
Go Bold
A striking cabinet choice or a colorful countertop can really make a small kitchen pop. Spending a few extra dollars for high-end materials can increase the wow factor in a small space, and since you have less space to remodel, you can stay within your budget. A small kitchen lets you get away with design elements that might look overwhelming in a larger space.
Think About Light and Color Effects
If you can, think about adding a window to let in more natural light. This makes a small room look warmer and more inviting, and may make it seem bigger. Bright colors will lighten up a space where installing a window is not an option. Using contrasting colors in your kitchen can create the perception of more space.
Install Storage Saving Devices
If you can�t increase the size of your kitchen, you can install products that let you use your space more efficiently. Pullout shelves and lazy Susans help you store more stuff in less space. Also, appliance manufacturers have lines of refrigerators, microwaves and ranges specifically designed for small kitchens.
As you can see, there are many creative solutions to help you get more enjoyment out of your small kitchen. Choose a good, reputable contractor to ensure the best work and a maximum return on your renovation or remodeling project.
