Everyone spends a lot of time in the kitchen, what with preparing meals, washing up, fixing the kids a snack or socialising with friends. The kitchen should, therefore, be a clean, organised space that you can enjoy. This is easier said than done sometimes, but there are some good tips and tricks for how to make the most of the space you have. Here are some:
Under the Counter
Just how you organise drawers under the counter can make a big difference to the time it takes you to find what you need. In general, keep like with like, meaning pots and pans in one drawer, preferably near the hob, and their lids nearby. A lid rack can help keep maintain order and stop you from having to root through a stack when you’re looking for the one you need.
If you have space under the counter with no drawers, consider putting in a larder fridge. A larder fridge is a small refrigerator that doesn’t include an ice box. An absence of an ice box provides more room for beverages, leftovers and anything else you want easy access to. Even if you have space for a large fridge freezer, a larder fridge can be a welcome addition to any kitchen, especially when it comes to throwing dinner parties or other social gatherings.
Countertop
Utilise your countertops without cluttering them. Place large utensils, including the ladle, spatula and whisk in a pitcher or vase so they are easy to find. Invest in a quality cutting board that can be put on the hob, when it’s not in use, or that fits over sink, to give you more counter space for other prep work.
Consider buying a small, wall-mounted table that folds down when you wish. It can be used as an additional countertop or, with two small chairs, a breakfast nook. When you want more room to roam, simply fold it down so it’s flush against the wall and out of your way.
Walls and Ceiling
Bare walls are a great spot for putting up shelves for cups, glasses and cookbooks. You can also mount a magnetic knife strip on the wall so all your sharp knives are in one obvious place. Hang aprons, pot holders and dish towels on pegs on the wall, away from the hob, for easy access and a cute effect.
The ceiling can also be a great place for added storage. A rack for pots and pans will not only get them out of your way but make you look like a professional chef at the same time!
Decor
Finally, to make the most of a small kitchen, paint everything white, get cabinets with glass doors and consider bar stools instead of chairs. Only keeping kitchen-related items in the kitchen, so no post or unnecessary clutter, will also help make your space seem larger.
So, with a bit of effort, a kitchen any size can become a well-organised space.