Just because you have a kitchen that feels no bigger than the bathroom doesn’t mean that it has no space available. The trick is to squeeze every inch out the space while maximizing functionality and style. Companies like Alair Homes Scarborough are used to working within any sized budget and can provide changes that can make a huge impact. Following are some tips you might consider.

Sizing Your Refrigerator

Today’s manufacturers understand that a wide range of buyers only have so much space available. With the knowledge that many kitchens today are still based on the styles seen in the 1920’s, which were 9-1/2’x10-1/2′, it makes sense that they designed alternatives that are needed in small spaces. Such spaces often require smaller appliances. As a result, manufacturers have returned to the basics by reinventing vintage stoves and refrigerators even smaller than the original models. The appliances work hard and fit in the smallest spaces, leaving more room for counters and cabinets. The goal is to increase functionality.

Closing Off a Door

Many kitchens have two access points; either 2 doors leading into the rest of the residence or a door into the area from the residence and a back door leading to the yard. Closing off just one of the access points can add a huge amount of cabinetry and counter space. Adding shelving in the recess left by the old door to the hallway can suddenly create a pantry. On the other hand, closing off a back door, provided it can be moved to another room, can add a huge amount of storage and work space. Even if the back door remains, a rolling island can block the back door while cooking, then be rolled out of the way when the back door is needed.

Utilize Broom Space

There’s often a small, snippet of space left next to a refrigerator or stove that has no purpose. It can easily be turned from a spot for dust bunnies into a pantry on wheels that can be pulled in and out with ease. The design makes items easily accessible and frees up cabinetry for things that may not have a home.

Top It Off

Cabinets rarely go clear to the ceiling, leaving much needed storage space unused. The extra foot on top that’s left collecting dust would be better used by taking cabinets clear to the ceiling. Although you’d have to use a step stool to reach the items stored there, it’s the perfect place for things that are not often needed like vases and large mixing bowls. Ceiling height cabinets provide additional storage and also visually expand the kitchen so it looks bigger.

Safeguard the Best, Discard the Rest

Clutter must be purged in order to make your updated space more functional. Many people have an instinct to hoard things believing, “I may need this someday.” They then put it away and never pull it out again. Finishing work on a fresh, new space is the best time to see what’s really in the cabinets. Be bold and be brutal. After all, you may not have another opportunity and a good reason to purge for a long time.

Not every kitchen can accommodate a chef’s stove, but they all can be improved so they are more functional, stylish and efficient. By following some of the aforementioned tips, you too can have a space you can live with and actually enjoy.