How to Make The Most of a Small Kitchen

Expert tips on how to make the most of the space in a small kitchen.

INTERVIEWED BY Michaela Stehr

Designing a small kitchen requires clever planning to make every inch count. Ramón Casadó of German kitchen brand bulthaup shares expert tips on creating an efficient, minimalist space that combines functionality with a warm, stylish touch.

SMALL KITCHEN DESIGN TIPS

How do you create the illusion of space?

Avoid dark colours. An all-white kitchen would create a minimalist, spacious feel. Pair it with a wooden floor for warmth, such as the high-end Douglas fir floor planks (12 m x 40 cm) from the Danish company Dinesen. Combine modular cabinets with open shelving for depth. And add a focal pendant lamp or bursts of bright colour. The iconic Scandinavian chairs from Carl Hansen & Søn complement the minimalist aesthetic.

What do you need to consider when designing a small space?

Think through how you cook a meal, and the alignment of prep areas, basin, hob/oven and refrigerator. By understanding your workflow, you can create a very efficient space.

A butcher block is a great way to add a preparation surface. The bulthaup solitaires range – a re-envisioning of the butcher block – comprises five customisable kitchen “elements”, including a preparation element with an aluminium frame and a solid oak or walnut worktop treated with food-safe oil.

Another piece, the presentation element, features a glass top and glass-sided shelves for displaying items such as glasses, which would save cupboard space.

How do you save space?

When you plan the design, make a list of everything you would need in your kitchen and provide a space for it. Don’t forget about something like the toaster that would remain on the counter. Calculate the right number of drawers and shelves to suit your needs.

Height is important for storage in a small kitchen. The bulthaup b1 kitchen system has been designed so the height can be tailored according to ergonomic or architectural necessity and to personal preference. | domum.bulthaup.com

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