Cozy Cooking -- 4 Tips For Making The Most Of A Small Kitchen

Even with remodeling dollars available, it's not always possible to change some aspects of a room. Small kitchens, for example, can sometimes be rendered larger and sometimes not. If you find yourself having to make the best of a tiny kitchen, here are 4 ways to make it feel bigger. 

Look Up... and Down. Kitchen users tend to focus on things that are at eye level, but there may be a lot of storage possibilities hiding above and below the main areas. Opt for cabinets that go all the way -- or close to -- the ceiling. Use the space above cabinets for storing seldom-used items like bulky serving ware. Kick drawers are narrow drawers that can be installed below the base cabinets to add storage for flatter items below. While you're at it, don't let narrow corners escape attention, either. Have some specialty storage cabinets designed just to fit them. .

Be Minimalist. Keeping the kitchen's lines of sight clear will help it seem larger. This often means using a neutral or pale color palette on walls, cabinetry, countertops, and chairs. Avoid storing small appliances on the counter tops, too, making a home for each inside other cabinetry. If adding an island or table, look for furniture pieces that feature slim legs and minimalist lines to create a small visual footprint. 

Get Mobile. Moveable kitchen features can disappear when not needed, leaving the room physically larger. What types of things can be rendered moveable? A rolling cart, for example, could double as an island, serving area, or mini bar as needed. Or, you can custom design a rolling workspace that could add an "L" shape of counterspace at the kitchen's end. You could even design something as simple as a butcher block that fits over the stove or sink for added workspace.

Hang it Up. Add storage space by hanging items from the walls, doors, and cabinets. Pots and pans can be hung over the counter or stove area. Store knives out of reach using a magnet screwed into the side of any space. Similarly, spices are easily stored in vertical container systems or even magnetic ones attached to the refrigerator. Be sure to make use of under-cabinet shelving for things like the microwave or coffee station. 

Work with your remodeling contractor to determine which of these small kitchen tips will work best in your particular space. And then, you can help ensure that the result is a cooking space you'll love for a lifetime. 

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