See how some savvy small kitchen remodeling transforms the spaces while maintaining the small proportions.
It also made for inefficient traffic flow between the adjacent living and dining areas.
A traffic-stopping peninsula that lacked storage caused problems in this builder-grade kitchen.
Before being updated, Melissa’s kitchen wasn’t bad; it just lacked the personality and openness she wanted for the hub of the home.
Glossy red cabinets from IKEA capture a sleek, modern look on a real-world budget.
Do-it-yourself concrete countertops were a cost-effective approach to a high-end look.
The counter-depth refrigerator has the appearance of a built-in model but is more affordable.
Before being updated, Melissa’s kitchen wasn’t bad; it just lacked the personality and openness she wanted for the hub of the home.
Finally, 24x24-inchfloor tilesand a stainless-steel backsplash complement the room’s modern leanings.
Juicy-orange lower cabinets in a lacquered finish provide a whimsical pop of glossy color.
Chrome cabinet pulls complement the quartz-surfacing countertop, which sports silvery-gray flecks.
Open shelving and white beaded board add a classic touch befitting the home’s 1875 origins.
Newdishwasherdrawers hide behind cabinet fronts, giving the lower cabinets a more continuous look.
BEFORE: Stuck in a Timewarp
This kitchen had barely been updated in 60 years.
Before being updated, Melissa’s kitchen wasn’t bad; it just lacked the personality and openness she wanted for the hub of the home.
This small change (plus the relocation of appliances) improved both sight lines and traffic flow.
The homeowners looked for unexpected ways to snag square footage and boost the function in this small kitchen remodel.
A tone-on-tone color scheme, like thiswarm gray palette, keeps the eye moving and visually expands the space.
Melissa Michaels was able to give her kitchen a bright, airy update on a minimal budget and without major disruption thanks to some scrappy thinking.
A petite island offers an additional prep surface and storage.
AFTER: Modern-Minded
Removing the desk made room for smart storage.
A small pot rack puts often-used cookware in easy reach of the range while freeing up cabinet space.
A small kitchen remodel doesnt have to be costlyand it doesnt always require the removal of walls.
For comfort and safety, keep the kitchen work triangle in mind.
If necessary, add more counter space for prepping food and storing frequently used small appliances.
Sometimes, simply adding a freestanding island or prep table can make an inefficient kitchen feel more functional.