remodeling small kitchen

remodeling small kitchenA DIY kitchen remodel project can be very challenging, particularly when the space you have to work with is limited. At the same time, however, there are many advantages to a small kitchen remodel compared to projects involving larger spaces. The main advantage is that a small kitchen costs less to renovate. This is because a kitchen involves many expensive services such as plumbing, garbage disposal, ventilation and extra lighting and electrical needs; hence, the smaller the space the lower the expenses. And, of course, a smaller space makes for a more manageable do-it-yourself project. Small kitchens are those whose floor space measures around 9 feet by 14 feet.

The first thing you have to decide on in your kitchen remodel project is what layout to use. While there are many small kitchens that are square in shape, most are rectangular. Hence, the best layouts are those which make the best use of available space, including L-shaped and U-shaped, one-wall and galleys. To illustrate, the one-wall design allows unimpeded movement around the kitchen by placing all the major kitchen appliances (refrigerator, stove) along with the sink, in a line along one wall. If you want more counter space, on the other hand, the L-shaped layout, also known as the classic kitchen triangle, gives you that by placing the refrigerator and the range at a roughly right angle to each other with the sink at the center.

Another perk of small kitchen designs for your own home is that thousands of dollars can be saved. Instead of spending cash for buying separate cabinets and storage for kitchen utensils, investing in built-in kitchen utensil keepers will save space and money at the same time. Also, if you are having troubles with overhead compartments, you might want to keep it a free but usable space. Built-in uncovered ledges will make the kitchen appear a little bit wider and "open" in a literal sense. Freely hanging utensils on the kitchen walls are also great space savers.

When picking the layout that is right for your kitchen remodel, you have to decide exactly what you want in a kitchen, since you will have to sacrifice certain features. Is storage more important to you than counter space? You also need to make space-saving decisions such as deciding whether you need a side-by-side refrigerator or a big double sink. The correct layout is vital to the success of your DIY kitchen remodel project.

DK Mills writes and maintains DIY-Kitchen-Remodel.com, a site that helps the aspiring Kitchen Remodel Do It Yourselfer. Read more about small kitchen design in our Small Kitchen Remodel Section.

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