Embrace a Functional Layout

The layout of a kitchen can make a huge difference in your space. Opting for a layout that minimizes wasted space and promotes efficient movement throughout the kitchen is best. A galley or L-shaped layout allows for streamlined workflow and abundant storage opportunities without taking up too much floor space.

Utilize Vertical Storage

When the footprint of your kitchen is smaller, look up! Consider installing shelves or cabinets to make use of the vertical space in your kitchen for storing items like cookware, spices, and small appliances. Open shelving is a great option that creates the illusion of space by visually expanding the room while traditional cabinets can sometimes make a space seem smaller and more enclosed.

Multi-Functional Furniture

Choose furniture pieces that can be used for multiple purposes to make the most of your kitchen space. A kitchen island with storage can also double as a prep area and dining table. Consider a fold-down table that is mounted to the wall that can be used for meal prep and then neatly tucked out of the way when not in use.

Choose Slim and Sleek Appliances

Every inch counts in a smaller kitchen so look for slim and compact appliances that are specifically designed for smaller spaces. There are narrow refrigerators, slimline dishwashers, apartment-sized ovens, and compact microwaves. These space-saving appliances not only fit seamlessly into your small space, but they also leave more room for storage and movement. Especially if you live alone, these smaller appliances might be a great choice for your small space.

Maximize Cabinet Space

Installing organizers and inserts that keep everything neat and accessible can make the most of your cabinet space. Pull-out shelves, turntables, and drawer dividers can make your storage highly efficient and functional. Keeping your kitchen organized and uncluttered can make you forget just how small your space is because it functions so efficiently.

Utilize Underutilized Spaces

Consider every surface as an option for storage. The area above your cabinets and the inside of cabinet doors can be used as extra storage space. Installing hooks or racks on the inside of your cabinet doors can create a space to store pot and pan lids and utensils. Invest in some decorative baskets to store items that you don’t use too frequently on the top of your cabinets as well.

Keep it Light and Bright

Choosing the right colors for a smaller space can make a huge difference. Opting for white or light-colored cabinetry, countertops, and backsplash will reflect light and make the room feel more spacious, airy, and open. Natural light coming through windows or skylights can also help make the room feel larger and more inviting.

Declutter, Declutter, Declutter

The most important part of maximizing any space is to keep it clutter-free. Regularly taking the time to declutter countertops, cabinets, and drawers and taking inventory of everything you have will allow you to make room for the essentials and prevent the space from getting too cramped and overcrowded.

Using these design tips and tricks can transform even the smallest kitchen into a functional and stylish space that meets your specific culinary needs. Using a little creativity and smart planning can ensure that it is still a joy to cook and entertain in your small, urban space. If storage solutions are what you need, your local Kitchen Solvers is happy to help! We can also help you think through how we might be able to rearrange your space to make it as functional as possible.

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L-Shaped Layout

Probably the most common and timeless favorite, the L-shaped kitchen maximizes corner space and offers an efficient workflow. This layout works in both small and large kitchens. It places countertops and appliances along two perpendicular walls which creates a functional triangular workspace between your most used areas—the cooktop, the refrigerator, and the sink. The open end of the “L” is a great space for a dining area, additional cabinetry, or a large kitchen island. The L-shaped kitchen is a versatile choice that works in a variety of home sizes.

U-Shaped Layout

The U-shaped layout is great for a large kitchen space. It allows for ample counter space and storage options. This layout surrounds the cook with countertops and cabinetry on three sides which allows for an organized, efficient, and large cooking environment. A U-shaped kitchen would be perfect for a multi-chef household or for the homeowner who loves to entertain. There is plenty of room for multiple tasks to be happening simultaneously, so you won’t find yourself stepping on each other’s toes.

Galley Layout

Another popular layout, especially in older, smaller homes, is the galley layout. This layout is characterized by two parallel countertops with a single aisle or alley in between. Galley kitchens are perfect for compact spaces, and they create a streamlined workflow. Everything is within arms reach so this design minimizes movement throughout the space and can optimize efficiency. A galley kitchen would be a great choice for small homes, apartments or condos, or anyone who prefers a minimalist aesthetic. Consider making the space feel larger with high, vaulted ceilings if the home allows for it.

Open-Concept Layout

The open-concept kitchen has grown in popularity over the last couple of decades as more and more homeowners are choosing home layouts that integrate the kitchen with the surrounding living spaces. Large, open spaces are the goal to promote connectedness with family and friends. This design eliminates walls and barriers making it a great option for the entertainment-inclined homeowner or the family with small children that need to be monitored while preparing meals.

Island Layout

A kitchen island can be incorporated into any kitchen layout (besides a galley layout) and can dramatically enhance the design and functionality. Adding an island offers extra counter space, storage options, and can double as an additional dining or gathering area for more casual meals or get-togethers. An island inspires collaboration and interaction between the chef and their guests so it is perfect for families who love to entertain. Even if you only have room for a small island, it will add so much functionality and sociability to your space.

The kitchen layout you choose—or the one you are given—sets the tone for your entire culinary experience. Each of the layouts above has its own set of advantages and can cater to your personal needs and preferences. If you are embarking on a kitchen remodel and have the opportunity to choose your layout, consider factors such as your available footprint, how you cook, your family size, and your lifestyle. Think about how you move around your kitchen currently and what is most important to you—storage, counter space, or more space to entertain. If you’re not sure what layout is best for your space, give your local Kitchen Solvers a call. We can’t wait to chat and look forward to making your kitchen dreams a reality.

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It Starts with Layout

Optimizing the available space is the first step to an organized and functional kitchen. Although newer homes typically have a wide open kitchen, older homes tend to have a U-shape, L-shape, or galley-style kitchen. Although these layouts aren’t “kitchen goals” these days, they were designed and created to be practical and functional at the time; and they still can be! They ensure easy movement and efficient workflow because they are small. They also force you to live minimally; which isn’t necessarily a bad thing. The key to these smaller, oddly shaped kitchens is using every inch effectively. Consider installing functional corner cabinets with pull-out shelves or lazy susans to make sure you are optimizing every square inch of space. Starting with a thoughtfully planned layout sets the stage for a highly organized and functional kitchen.

Consider Multiple Functions

Another way to maximize functionality is by choosing furniture and appliances that can serve multiple purposes. An island or recycled table can double as a workspace and additional storage space. Appliances with compact designs and built-in features can make a huge difference too. Microwave drawers are becoming more and more popular because they don’t take up highly sought-after upper cabinet/wall space or even countertop space. Custom cabinetry with pull-out pantry systems can have your store more in a small space. These are just two simple examples of ways you can save precious counter space while also maintaining accessibility.

Go Up

Use vertical space to your advantage by installing wall-mounted shelving or racks for commonly used utensils, pots, and pans. Magnetic strips on the wall/backsplash can be a great place to store knives or other metal kitchen utensils. Hanging baskets or hooks on the underside of upper cabinets can be a great place to store mugs, spices, or even fresh produce. Using the vertical space to your advantage frees up valuable counter space and keeps your space organized and functional.

Customize Your Cabinetry

Although the U-shape, L-shape, and galley-style kitchens encourage efficient workflow, the real secret to creating a functional kitchen lies INSIDE your cabinets and drawers. Pull-out shelves, sliding trays, and dividers not only maximize the use of deep cabinets and drawers, but they also minimize clutter—which is half the battle of a small space. Lazy Susans in corner cabinets allow easy access to items and customizable drawer inserts will help keep utensils, cutlery, and kitchen tools neatly organized. Implementing the right storage solutions will make a world of difference in your small space.

If designing kitchen space still seems overwhelming to you, you’re at the right place on the internet. Your local Kitchen Solvers specializes in just this and are looking forward to helping you accomplish your dreams for a functional, organized, and beautiful space. We have experience in kitchens big and small and are passionate about creating spaces that our customers love—whether that’s a complete gut and remodel, or just a cabinet reface and storage solutions. A well-designed kitchen not only enhances function but also adds aesthetic appeal to your home for yourself and future owners to enjoy for years to come. Call your local Kitchen Solvers today to start dreaming of a space where function and style coexist in perfect harmony.

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How Much is an Average Kitchen Remodel?

Remodeling costs vary depending on the size of the room, the quality of the materials chosen, the intended usage, and the desired layout because no two kitchens are alike. Every year, Remodeling Magazine compiles a Cost vs. Value Report. These are the reported national figures that should give you a better idea of what to expect for your project. Here are some of the report’s highlights:

The national average cost for a kitchen remodel, according to Remodeling Magazine, is between $26,790 and $77,939 (with midrange products). This predicted range takes into account factors such as labor, materials, lighting, and plumbing fixtures. The price of your kitchen remodel is, of course, affected by the finish and material choices you make as well as the size of your space.

What Expenses to Expect with Your Kitchen Remodel

With the price range of a kitchen remodel being from $26,790-77,939, you might be wondering what exactly that money is going towards. Home Advisor breaks all of this down and more in a great resource annually as well—find that here. Here is a visual breakdown they put together:

How Much Value Does a Remodel Add to Your Home

In general, every year, the ROI on a minor kitchen remodel is greater than the ROI on a major one. This was especially the case in late 2022 when this data was collected because the housing market was in such a weird spot. Buyers were focused on maintaining every bit of extra cash, so they wanted to buy homes with workable kitchens and functional spaces. The idea of buying a ‘fixer upper’ was less appealing to most homebuyers at the time. Additionally, a light touch on your kitchen including upgrading appliances and other minor aesthetic pieces is easier to make universally appealing. A major kitchen renovation allows the current homeowner to create their dream kitchen, but that will almost never be your buyer’s dream kitchen as well. As a rule of thumb, major kitchen renovations should be seen as a personal project; not a project to get your home ready for the market.

Finally, the region you live in can affect the ROI of different home projects. The real estate market changes as your make your way across country and that of course affects the remodeling industry as well. Here is a breakdown of ROI of certain home improvements by region according to Remodeling Magazine:

This can all seem overwhelming if you’re not familiar with the industry and trends. That’s exactly why your local Kitchen Solvers team is here. We are IN the industry and would love to help you dream up the perfect kitchen remodel for your life and home. We’ll help you decide if a minor or major upgrade is the best option for you and we look forward to hearing from you soon!

The post How Much is a Kitchen Remodel Going to Cost Me in 2023? appeared first on Kitchen Solvers.

The kitchen is perhaps the most important room in your entire home, serving both as a workspace and the area where your family gathers for meals. Unfortunately, if you have a small kitchen, then it can be hard to get the utility that you need out of this all-important room. It is for this reason that many homeowners choose to remodel their small kitchen.

If you’re interested in updating your small kitchen, whether to improve its appearance or functionality, there are a few questions you need to ask yourself to make sure that you get the most out of your kitchen remodel. Here are a few questions to ask before your small kitchen remodel, and advice for getting help with your important project.

1. How Many People Will Be Using Your Kitchen?

The key in making your small kitchen as useful as possible is maximizing your space, and one of the issues that many people fail to consider in terms of kitchen space is how many people will be using the room.

For example, if you have children, you may want to open the floor space in your kitchen and make sure that they can reach items like the microwave. On the other hand, if you live on your own or with another person, you may want to make sure your small kitchen has a work area by installing an island. Ask yourself how many people will be using your kitchen, and consider their needs, and you’ll be able to effectively plan your remodel.

2. How Will You Use Your Kitchen?

Another important factor to consider before starting your small kitchen remodel is how you plan on using the room. Some homeowners, for instance, use their kitchen more as workspace than they do as an area to cook meals and entertain. If you don’t cook a lot of meals at home, then you can skimp on the bigger appliances, like a full stove, and opt for space saving options instead.

However, if you do want a kitchen where you can entertain guests and cook elaborate meals, then you’ll want to make sure that you have ample counter space and items like a wall oven. Knowing how you plan to use your kitchen will help you map out the space prior to your remodel.

3. Any Must-Haves?

Every homeowner has their own specific tastes, which makes it likely that you have a few must-have items that your dream kitchen will include. Skimping on these must-have items usually means that you won’t be able to get the enjoyment out of your kitchen that you need and deserve. Considering your must-have items is a crucial step in planning your small kitchen remodel.

Do you want a high-end refrigerator? What about a professional quality cooktop? Answering questions like these will help you understand what your must-haves are and how they fit into your kitchen remodeling project. Even if your budget is a factor, you should be sure to include some must-have items so that your project is as rewarding as possible.

4. How Much Storage Do You Need?

Whether you have a large or small kitchen, you need to be sure that you have the right amount of storage. With a small kitchen, however, getting enough storage space can be difficult, especially if you don’t know how much space you need.

In the planning stages of your small kitchen remodel, think long and hard about how much space you need and the best way to achieve this storage. For instance, if you don’t have room for multiple cabinets, you could choose hanging wall storage. Making sure that you have enough storage room is a crucial part of remodeling your small kitchen.

5. Is Your Space Maximized?

In a small kitchen, space is at a maximum. One of the biggest mistakes that homeowners make when remodeling their small kitchen is not using every inch of space that they have available. When space is wasted in your small kitchen, you won’t be able to get the utility you need out of the room.

Some homeowners, for example, choose to install stacked pull-out interior drawers or rotating carousels so that all the extra space in their kitchen is used effectively. Think about how you’re using the space in your small kitchen, and make any adjustments necessary so that you’re using your kitchen as optimally as possible.

6. Can You Get Rid of Anything?

Something that’s common for virtually every kitchen is that they contain unnecessary items. While this can be annoying in large kitchens, it can be disastrous in small kitchens. Useless items in small kitchens can take up space that could be used for items that you actually need.

A useful task when remodeling a small kitchen is to take an inventory of your equipment and decide what you absolutely need to keep and what you can throw away. Throw away duplicate items or any plates or utensils that are broken. Clearing out unnecessary items from your small kitchen will make the room feel less cluttered and allow you to easily find the items that you use frequently.

7. Can You Open the Room?

A big obstacle in having a small kitchen is that these rooms can often end up feeling extremely cramped. This means that when you’re planning a remodel for a small kitchen, you need to find a few ways to make the room feel more open and inviting.

Think about the colors you are using in your kitchen and how they affect the feel of the room. Dark, muted colors, for instance, can make a kitchen feel stuffy. Choosing lighter colored tiles and backsplashes can make it feel like you have more space, making your kitchen much more enjoyable.

Similarly, if the lighting in your kitchen is lacking, it is likely that the space will feel gloomy. Installing new lighting, particularly under cabinet lighting, can brighten your kitchen and make you more likely to spend time in the room.

Advice for Your Small Kitchen Remodel

Remodeling your small kitchen is one of the best things you can do to improve the usefulness and attractiveness of the room, particularly if you keep these questions in mind. However, the best way to plan your small kitchen remodel is getting advice from the team at Kitchen Solvers.

When you work with Kitchen Solvers, we can help you plan the most effective small kitchen remodel possible, maximizing your space. Visit a location today to get started.

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There’s almost nothing more frustrating than a kitchen that’s too small for your needs. Undersized kitchens can feel cramped, easily become cluttered, and reduce your enjoyment of what should be the most important room in your home. Fortunately, you don’t need to invest a great deal of time, effort and money to overhaul your small kitchen. All you need is a plan of action and the right home improvement tips.

Here are a few quick small kitchen projects that will maximize your limited space and increase the utility of your tiny kitchen.

Choose Stackable Furniture

One of the biggest drawbacks of having a tiny kitchen is having a limited amount of floor space. This makes it extremely hard for your kitchen to serve as the meeting place of your home. If you’re looking for a quick tweak that will pay big dividends in your small kitchen, there’s no better choice than purchasing stackable furniture.

With stackable furniture, you can provide adequate kitchen seating for your friends and family that can easily be stored in an out of the way location when you need a little extra room to work. Choosing stackable options instead of traditional kitchen furniture will improve the space in your kitchen and increase your enjoyment.

Fold-Down Tables

For many homeowners, their kitchen is both their cooking and eating room. However, if you have an undersized kitchen, it can be nearly impossible to find a table that doesn’t take up all your free space. Fortunately, if you want to be able to enjoy a meal right off your kitchen, you have the option of installing a fold-down table.

A fold-down table is exactly what it sounds like, a table that folds down from the wall whenever you need to use it and can be folded up when you need extra space. Combine your fold-down table with the previously mentioned stackable chairs and you’ll be able to add a great deal of space to your small kitchen.

Hanging Shelf

Another obstacle in a small kitchen is effectively storing your larger items like pots and pans without making the room feel too busy. If your small kitchen is limited in both counter space and storage space, one of the most effective ways to store your kitchenware when not in use is by installing a hanging shelf.

With a hanging shelf, you can store your pots and pans out of the way, letting some of the items hang and others sit on top of the shelf. This ensures that your cooking items are both out of the way and easily accessible when it’s time to cook your next meal.

Optimizing Surface Space

If you’ve ever lived in a home with a small kitchen, then you know these diminutive rooms often have a frustrating lack of surface space. This makes it almost impossible for you to cook your meals quickly and easily. If you want to improve your ability to use your kitchen the way it was intended, you should consider adding a multi-purpose surface to your kitchen.

A multi-purpose surface will be a cutting board that can sit over your stovetop when it is not in use. This added surface space will make it easier for you to prepare your meals and will eliminate the need to constantly walk in and out of your kitchen while cooking.

Cabinets

If you’ve recently moved from a larger home with a larger kitchen to a smaller home with a tinier kitchen space, you probably have more items to store than your storage options can accommodate. Although many people don’t realize it, there are a variety of ways to improve the overall storage space in your small kitchen that can be accomplished very quickly.

For example, those few inches between your cabinets and your floor are often unused. Instead of wasting this valuable kitchen real estate, you can install under cabinet toe-kick drawers. These drawers are ideal for large, flat kitchen items like baking and serving trays. Choosing this option can also help add space to the other cabinets in your kitchen.

On a similar note, if the cabinets in your kitchen lack shelf dividers, you might be wasting a great deal of storage space simply because there’s nowhere to place your items. A great way to add to the storage space in your cabinet is by installing undershelves. Installing hanging cabinet shelves can nearly double the storage space of a typical cabinet, allowing you to store all your important kitchen items.

Another factor to consider is if your tiny kitchen can accommodate a corner cabinet. With a corner cabinet, you can transform the corners of your kitchen into effective storage locations, especially if you choose a spinning cabinet or one whose shelves can be extended outside the cabinet for easy access.

Lastly, if there is open space on the outside of your cabinet, you can add exterior shelving to add to your cabinet’s storage space. Exterior cabinet shelving can be a simple, attractive solution to adding storage space to your tiny kitchen.

Spice Storage

If you’re a frequent cook, then you know how important it is for your kitchen to be stocked with a wide variety of spices. Unfortunately, due to the lack of space in a small kitchen, homeowners often have to pick and choose between what spices they’ll keep. If you’re tired of having a lack of spices in your kitchen, there are a few easy solutions to this problem.

First, instead of using a traditional spice rack, you could attach your spices to your refrigerator using magnetic canisters. This will allow you to have a wide range of spices in your kitchen without taking up valuable counter space. Second, if you prefer fresh herbs and spices, you could install a window herb garden. Not only will this provide you with a supply of fresh herbs whenever you want, it will add a touch of color to your kitchen.

Get Help with Small Kitchen Projects

As you can see, you don’t have to break the bank or disrupt your home in order to improve your small kitchen. However, if you’re interested in completely overhauling your tiny kitchen space, it’s a good idea to get advice from kitchen design professionals. If you’re looking for help planning your small kitchen projects, your best solution is to work with the experienced and knowledgeable team at Kitchen Solvers.

At Kitchen Solvers, we understand how frustrating it can be to have an undersized kitchen, and we are ready to help you plan and execute the improvement projects most useful to your kitchen space. Whether you’re interested in a small or large improvement project, Kitchen Solvers is your best resource. Visit one of our locations today and get started transforming your tiny kitchen.

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