Tips for Small Kitchen Design in Seattle
October 13, 2022
Kitchens come in all shapes and sizes, especially in older Seattle neighborhoods, but your smallish kitchen can really pack a punch with the right design. By following a few tips for small kitchen design, you can create a functional, stylish, and inviting space. Here are some things to consider when designing your small kitchen space.
Should you incorporate a kitchen island?
Kitchen islands aren’t ideal for every space, and it’s important to consider whether your small kitchen can accommodate one. Generally, you need at least three feet on each side of an island, so you still have space to move around. Galley kitchens, for example, are never less than three feet wide. Otherwise, you won’t have enough space to prepare and cook meals.
It’s also essential to think about the functionality of a kitchen island. If you don’t have enough space to install an island that’s over two feet wide, it’s not really worth it. Anything narrower than that, and the island won’t be wide enough to use.
What are some of the best features to include in a small kitchen?
A kitchen remodel that includes thoughtful choices, you can improve traffic flow and maximize the functionality of your small kitchen while making it look much larger. Here are some features to consider.
Smart storage solutions
Smart storage may be the most important consideration in your small kitchen design. Focus on the items you need in your kitchen, including dishes, cutlery, and glassware, and consider where you’d like them to go. It’s also best to consider large items like pots, pans, the air fryer and stand mixer. Work with your kitchen designer to designate a storage spot for them that makes the most sense. Consider installing Dura Supreme cabinetry, known for its outstanding craftsmanship and quality. Dura Supreme offers personalized design choices, so you can choose sharp, eye-catching cabinetry that’s perfect for your small kitchen.
Kitchen cabinet colors
Cabinets come in various colors, and Dura Supreme offers several stains and paint finishes to match your color scheme. When selecting the right color for your kitchen cabinets, consider lighter shades, mainly because your kitchen is small. Dark colors can make a space look smaller, while light colors tend to open it up, making your kitchen look cheerful and bright. Some ideal colors include shades of white, natural light oak, or other light hues. Dura Supreme offers a wide range of light colors, so you can pick the perfect one for your small kitchen.
If you’d like to incorporate darker colors, consider two-toned cabinetry. Choose a dark shade for the bottom cabinets and a light color for the top. This will make make your space feel more grounded.
Smaller kitchen appliances
Many manufacturers offer smaller appliances, so consider opting for them, especially if you have fewer people in your home. Small appliances do the job while giving you extra storage space in your small kitchen. For example, a standard refrigerator is usually between 30 and 36 inches wide. However, a smaller fridge is about 30 inches wide and is perfect for two people. In addition, choosing a smaller appliance automatically creates more functional space within the kitchen.
You can also purchase multi-purpose appliances that do the work of several appliances in one. A speed oven, for example, works as a convection oven and a microwave oven and doesn’t take up valuable counter space.
Dramatic kitchen lighting
One tip for a small kitchen design that works well involves strategically installing scones where cabinets don’t make sense. If your space only allows for a 12-inch cabinet, for example, it may be more prudent to install a light in that space. This creates a dramatic effect and makes your kitchen look upscale and en vogue, and you’re only missing out on a tiny sliver of cabinet space.
Our thought: A kitchen can never have too much light. In fact, lighting can make your kitchen look more significant.
Simple kitchen finishes
Small kitchen design doesn’t need to be elaborate or have eye-catching patterns and dramatic decor. Instead, choose simple materials that are uncomplicated and neat. That way, your kitchen will feel calm, clean, and bright. Select one or two finishes for your kitchen design and opt for a simple backsplash pattern. Otherwise, your small kitchen can quickly look too busy, which translates to messy and loud. Focus on simple finishes; your small kitchen will look balanced and clean.
With over 300 projects completed since 2010, and countless happy Seattle homeowners among our clients, Harjo Construction has the experience and professional know-how to help you design and build the ideal kitchen. If you’re ready to design your dream kitchen, contact us. We’d love to share our best tips for small kitchen design, so we can help you create the perfect kitchen space in your home.