By Ehow writer
Are you planning to perform a small kitchen remodel in your home? If so, you may find yourself somewhat overwhelmed with all the little details and things to consider before you actually begin the renovation. What if you make the wrong choice? When this much money is involved, you want to make sure you do things right the first time. With a little thought and planning, you can avoid most pitfalls when the time comes. By keeping these things in mind as you plan your small kitchen remodel, you can ensure that the result is functional, elegant, and satisfying.
Difficulty: Moderately Easy
1. Make your available space multitask whenever possible. If there is anything that can be hung, combined, or made to fit in a smaller space, choose that model instead. Fit cabinets against the ceiling to double the use of that space. Instead of a standalone oven, include an in-wall oven in your small kitchen remodel. For the stove, use a cooktop that can be fitted over cabinets. Use a microwave that doubles as a toaster oven. Never use two items when one can perform both jobs just as well.
2. Choose compact versions of appliances and accessories whenever possible. Use a slide out cutting board to conserve space. Use a more compact, slim model refrigerator or baker's rack. Instead of using a rolling dishwasher that can be moved around, consider a model that can be mounted under a cabinet.
3. Ensure that you have enough storage. When doing a small kitchen remodel, remember that space is extremely limited. By having sufficient cabinet, drawer, and closet space, you can remove a great deal of clutter from your work area. Store your infrequently used items and small appliances to conserve space.
4. Make sure you have enough light. Bright light can make a small space seem larger, and good light is useful when cooking. Consider overhead panel lighting, as well as a few lights hanging beneath the cabinets to create small areas of direct light for detailed work.
Tips & Warnings
Avoid free standing cabinets or kitchen islands. Cabinets fitted against the wall, as well as overhead cabinets, will preserve valuable floor space. Plan your color scheme before you purchase anything. It is much easier to swap something out at the beginning than once your small kitchen remodel is underway.
