There’s no doubt about it, having your kitchen refitted with new cabinets and counter-tops is always a really exciting event. There’s something incredibly satisfying about seeing those old, dated units ripped out and replaced with stylish new cabinets and shining counter-tops that completely transform the feel of your room.
However, because having new kitchen cabinetry fitted is a fairly major investment, it’s really important to make sure that you get it right first time. Although aesthetic appeal is a major aspect of kitchen planning, don’t forget to think carefully about how you can best use your available space to ensure that it works well for you and your family’s specific needs.
Here are a few great space-saving tips to help you get the most from your new kitchen.
Top Tips to Save Space When Investing in New Kitchen Cabinets
Reach for the skies! Well, perhaps not quite that far, but it makes real sense to invest in taller cabinets that reach right the way up to the ceiling, as it really maximizes the available storage space. It also avoids the inevitable cluttered look of boxes and packets stacked on the tops of the units, which can really make a kitchen feel smaller and a whole lot more cramped.
Keep it practical. A kitchen shouldn’t be just attractive; it should also focus on functionality. When you and your kitchen cabinet supplier are talking designs and layout, consider how you can make the space as practical as possible; having the sink, oven and fridge within easy reach of one another.
Get creative with walls and even ceiling space. If your kitchen is particularly small, then consider asking your cabinetry supplier to create some bespoke shelving to maximize storage space. You could also use hooks hanging from the ceiling to store your pots and pans, if space is really at a premium.
Ask your cabinetry supplier for ideas. If you’re working with a good kitchen cabinet supplier, the likelihood is that they'll have some excellent ideas on how to make your kitchen space really work for you, with additional fittings such as pull-out shelving, removable cutting boards or space-maximizing corner units.
If it feels cramped, paint it white! If you’re worried that your kitchen will feel cramped and dingy, particularly if it doesn’t get much natural light, then go for white or light colored cabinets, which will create the illusion of air and space. A hi-gloss finish on your cabinets will also help bounce the available light around the room.
If you’ve managed to find a great kitchen cabinetry maker to work with, then don’t be afraid to ask for his or her advice. They will have worked on kitchen projects of all sizes, and will probably have a great level of knowledge on how to use every last inch of space in your kitchen.
Remember, bigger isn’t always better, and sometimes, smaller kitchens, when planned effectively, can pack a real punch in the character stakes!
