Introduction
In human civilization kitchen plays an important role from ancient periods to modern studio apartments. Kitchen has been transformed into a piece of art. Now in today’s world the biggest challenge is how to create your kitchen in a limited space and how to keep that small space clutter free.
Challenges
All good chefs in the kitchen look for ample space to work and think free to present any gourmet dish. They look for clean, tidy, organized and well thought out shelves that will be in easy reach to stimulate ideas for creative dishes. Unfortunately, every other kitchen is known to produce sumptuous foods but its health and hygiene has become a liability. This had in several occasions resulted in adulteration impacting our health.
Proven solutions
Good chef in today’s world pays equal importance to a healthy layout of a kitchen that can work as catalyst in bringing innovative ideas while working in the kitchen. Some of the industry proven solution is given below. The below suggestion(s) alone or together can help someone with the well deserved and accomplished kitchen he / she has dreamt of.
1. Getting rid of rotten furniture
Rotten furniture will distract your attention leading to unfinished or uncooked dishes. They are not healthy as well because of termites and insecticides. Plan to give your kitchen a fresh look with new solid wood furniture and good non-toxic paints. Keep the color bold at times and let that get reflected in your dishes.
2. Using practical furniture
Fitting a dining table and chairs are the biggest challenge within 117 square feet kitchen area but round small table likes bistro style instead of other shapes will save some space. We can also use bar stools or simple stools instead of chairs.
3. Using color
When the space is limited it is always advisable to keep the cabinets dark. Light colors make things wide. In small spaces, try to keep stuffs small so that it looks well coordinated.
4. Working with the window
Window plays a big role in every kitchen. We need sunlight to keep the kitchen germ free as well as sunlight saves the electricity during day time. But during night, the same window becomes a burden because of the street lights. We can overcome the problem by placing bright curtains like yellow or orange which will give warmth as well as block the outside light.
5. Utilization of wall space
Small area like this can be arranged by utilizing walls. Hanging organizer, dish rack, spice bottles are good options but we have to make sure that all the goods are accessible.
6. Keeping some open space
Keeping some open space gives a feel good touch.
7. Using monochromatic color
Keeping cabinets, tiles and cooking range monochromatic is a good way to give our kitchen a spacious feel. Placing breakfast nook instead of traditional tables also creates some space.
Additional Tips
When designing small kitchen, one thing we have to keep in mind that it needs creativity especially in the area of storage space.
Appliances, storage and lighting are the key components for small kitchen.
1) We should go for appliances which can be hung or wall mounted. Refrigerators should be less deep.
2) Lighting also plays an important part. Placing bulbs under the floor or cabinets illuminate the place. Again corner lighting creates illusion of more space.
3) We have to give special attention to the floors also. Keeping it monochrome is a good idea. Light colored floor tiles make the floor more spacious.
4) Placing sliding or folding cabinet doors will save some space.
5) Placing some fresh flowers or bright artificial flowers will also make your tiny space lively. Placing live plant or some artificial bonsai will also bring the same result.
We have to remember that we need a functional kitchen where we can move and pour daily cooking chores. So if we feel we are comfortable in a tiny space than size doesn’t matter.
