Kitchenettes are miniature or compact kitchens that optimize small spaces without sacrificing function. They are perfect for small homes, apartments, dorms, offices and more. Kitchenettes allow you to cook, store food and wash dishes even in a tiny home. With some clever design and space-saving hacks, kitchenettes can be highly convenient, functional and livable. Here are 12 kitchenette ideas to maximize convenience and livability in a compact space.
Choosing the Right Layout
The layout of your kitchenette is key for optimizing convenience in a small space. Here are some smart layouts to consider:
Galley Kitchenette
This layout places cabinets, countertops and appliances in a single line. It’s great for maximizing work area in a narrow space. Install cabinets overhead for extra storage. A galley is ideal for kitchenettes 85 square feet or less.
L-Shaped Kitchenette
An L-shaped kitchenette uses two adjacent walls for cabinets and appliances. The L-shape creates an efficient work triangle while opening up floor space. Include a peninsula or island for more counter area. L-shapes work well in kitchenettes up to 150 square feet.
U-Shaped Kitchenette
A U-shaped kitchenette uses three walls and provides ample counter space and storage. It’s ideal for larger kitchenettes up to 200 square feet. Include a sink in the base of the U for an efficient workflow.
Space-Saving Furniture
Specialized furniture builds convenience into a compact kitchenette:
Pull-Down Shelving
Install pull-down shelving above counters or appliances to store items out of the way. Simply pull them down when needed for convenient access.
Sliding Storage
Cabinets with sliding shelves and drawers maximize vertical storage in a small footprint. Look for narrow pull-out cabinets to fit smaller items.
Fold-Down Tables
A fold-down table or desk can provide extra counter space when needed. Flip it up against the wall to keep the area clear.
Convertible Furniture
Opt for convertible pieces like a sofa that turns into a bed for overnight guests. This multifunctional furniture suits kitchenettes that also serve as dining and living spaces.
Appliance Hacks
You can cook full meals in a kitchenette with the right appliance hacks:
Microwave-Convection Ovens
These all-in-one appliances combine a microwave, convection oven and range into one unit. They save ample counter space.
Mini Fridges
Compact refrigerators come in sizes as small as 1.7 cubic feet. Opt for a mini fridge with a separate freezer section.
Portable Induction Cooktops
Induction cooktops heat up and cool down quickly for safety and energy efficiency in a small kitchen. Store them easily when not in use.
Small Sinks
A petite sink suits tight quarters. Look for compact models around 13 by 18 inches. Smaller sinks limit food prep space.
Handheld Mixers
Immersion blenders whip, mix and puree foods while taking up minimal storage space. They often come with attachments like a mini chopper.
Storage Solutions
Smart storage is essential for a highly functional kitchenette. Maximize every inch of space with these tips:
Cabinet Organizers
Take advantage of cabinet space with pull-out organizers for pots, pans, canned goods and more. Lazy susans also optimize corner cabinets.
Hanging Rails
Install rails or tracks on the ceiling or under cabinets to hang utensils, pots and pans out of the way.
Wall-Mounted Storage
Make use of wall space with mounted knife blocks, shelves, racks and magnetic strips for utensils. Floating shelves work in awkward nooks.
Under-Cabinet Baskets
Mount small wire baskets under cabinets to hold sponges, towels and other items. They’re great above sinks or stoves.
Multi-Tier Drawers
Divided drawers keep utensils, cutlery and other items organized and accessible in one compact drawer.
Clever Countertops
Given the limited counter space, choose countertops wisely:
Butcher Block
Butcher block countertops serve as both work surface and cutting board. Opt for movable modular blocks to reconfigure or stow away.
Fold-Down Counters
Hinged countertops can fold vertically against the wall to clear space as needed. Pull them down for food prep.
Glass Countertops
Glass offers a streamlined look to avoid a cluttered feel. Pair with shelves or cabinets above to prevent glasses and bottles from sliding.
Stainless Steel
Stainless steel provides an easy-to-clean and hygienic surface perfect for compact kitchens. It has a sleek, modern look.
Optimizing Dish Storage
Storing a full dishware set in a kitchenette can be tricky. Use these tips to maximize functionality:
Plate Stands
Vertical plate stands allow you to neatly store plates, bowls and platters on their sides along the wall or in cabinets.
Plate Racks
Mounted racks store plates horizontally like on a shelf. Opt for a rail system with adjustable slots.
Dish Drawers
Designate drawers just for organized dish storage. Use adjustable dividers to customize spaces.
Lid Organizers
Lid racks free up cabinet space and keep matching lids and containers together in one place.
Nested Bowls
Store mixing bowls inside one another to save space. Use non-slip shelf liner to prevent toppling.
Additional Touches
Include these extra conveniences in your compact kitchen:
Pull-Out Trash Can
A slim trash bin on drawer slides hides the garbage out of sight. Just slide it out when needed.
Paper Towel Holder
Mount this near the sink for easy access when washing dishes. Opt for over-sink holders to save space.
Magnetic Knife Strip
Safely store knives along the wall rather than loose in drawers. Choose strips sized appropriately for the space.
Mini Dish Drying Rack
A small dish drying rack folds down or disassembles for storage. Stash it when not in use.
Backsplash Spice Racks
Utilize wall space for mounted spice racks. Opt for magnetic racks for easily interchangeable jars.
Stylish Solutions
Just because it’s small doesn’t mean a kitchenette can’t also serve up style. Consider these design ideas:
Vintage Details
Incorporate charming vintage elements like glass cabinet knobs, a retro fridge or distressed wood finishes.
Tiles
Add visual interest with an eye-catching tile backsplash. Opt for dark grout for a seamless look.
Sleek Hardware
Brushed metal hardware lends an elegant, modern touch. Stainless steel, copper and brass work nicely.
Wood Accents
Warm up the space with natural wood accents. Try open shelving, butcher block counters or a wooden knife strip.
Colorful Cabinets
Make cabinets the focal point with lively colors like cobalt blue, mint green or cheery yellow. White countertops keep it fresh.
Cafe-Style Curtains
For kitchenettes in studios or open floor plans, hang cafe curtains to define the kitchen zone while adding privacy.
Final Takeaways
When designing a kitchenette:
- Choose a space-saving layout like galley or L-shaped
- Opt for multifunctional or stowing furniture
- Seek out appliance hacks like induction cooktops
- Maximize storage with organizers, racks and baskets
- Make the most of limited counterspace
- Store dishes smartly with plate stands, racks and drawers
- Include conveniences like pull-out trash cans
- Don’t neglect style – have fun with details like tiles or color
With some creativity and compact-living know-how, you can design a kitchenette that’s convenient, functional and suits your personal style. The key is making the most of every inch while keeping the furnishings and fixtures scaled appropriately to the petite proportions. A few smart space-saving solutions can transform a kitchenette into a highly livable and stylish culinary oasis.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the benefits of a kitchenette?
Kitchenettes offer several benefits for small spaces:
- Allows cooking, food prep and cleanup even in a compact home
- Saves space with miniature appliances and smart storage
- Provides flexibility – can be used in homes, offices, studios, etc.
- Offers affordability compared to larger kitchen remodels
- Optimizes efficiency with streamlined work triangles
- Fits small layouts like studio apartments or guest suites
How small can a functional kitchenette be?
With careful planning, you can create a highly functional kitchenette in as little as 50 square feet. Key tips for maximizing an ultra-compact kitchenette include:
- Optimize traffic flow with a galley layout
- Install space-saving pull-down shelves and fold-down counters
- Choose the smallest possible fridge, sink and appliances
- Use wall-mounted storage like rails and magnetic strips
- Include dish drawers and lid organizers for organized storage
- Streamline work triangles for an efficient cooking workflow
What are must-haves for any kitchenette?
There are a few must-have conveniences to include in any kitchenette:
- Small refrigerator/freezer combo
- Compact sink with storage cabinets below
- Microwave oven or microwave-convection oven
- Induction cooktop or electric burner
- Drawers and pull-out cabinets for storage
- Trash and recycling bins
- Dish rack for draining and drying
- Kitchen knives and basic cooking/baking pans
- Dishes, cups, utensils scaled for the space
How do you maximize storage in a kitchenette?
Smart storage is key for a maximizing usable space in a kitchenette. Solutions to consider include:
- Floor-to-ceiling narrow cabinets
- Pull-down shelving above counters
- Wall-mounted rails, racks and magnetic strips
- Under-cabinet baskets for oft-used items
- Lazy susans and drawer organizers
- Multi-tier cutlery dividers and dish drawers
- Fold-down tables or stowing cutting boards
- Plate stands for vertically storing dishware
What design elements can make a small kitchenette feel roomier?
To avoid a closed-in feeling, incorporate design elements like:
- Glass cabinets or open shelving
- Mirrored backsplash for an illusion of depth
- Pale, neutral colors for lightness and brightness
- Glossy cabinet finishes that reflect light
- Glass tile backsplash or counter to avoid visual boundaries
- Cafe-style curtains to define the kitchen’s boundaries
- Vintage or sleek metal finishes for visual interest
So with some creative solutions, you can design a kitchenette that feels just as fresh and spacious as it is functional for everyday cooking and living.
Conclusion
Kitchenettes are a flexible and affordable option for compact spaces like studios, guest suites, offices and more. By choosing an optimized layout and space-saving furniture along with smart storage solutions and compact appliances, you can design a highly convenient kitchenette in as little as 50 square feet. Focus on maximizing vertical storage, multi-use furnishings, and a streamlined workflow. With the right layout and conveniences, a tiny kitchenette can function just as well as a full-sized cooking space while taking up only a fraction of the area.
