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ROOM IDEAS |
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FURNITURE IDEAS |
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SAFETY |
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Small Kitchens
Small kitchens can be good for keeping your cooktop, fridge and sink within easy reach of each other, but severely limit the amount of counter space and storage.
These ideas can make your kitchen area easier to use.
Bench or counter space
 The microwave can overtake valuable bench space. Installing a wall shelf at shoulder height to hold it. Some people even put the microwave on top of the fridge.- An extension bench that pulls out from under the existing counter is a good way to create extra working space. Or you could buy a portable island bench that can be wheeled into the kitchen when needed - as long as you have somewhere to keep it when not in use.
- Avoid clutter and keep the benches clear of anything that can be stored in cabinets.
- Consider replacing a double sink with a single bowl. Or, lay a board over the sink for a cheap and easy solution (see pic above on right).
Light
- If your small kitchen also has a small window, install a skylight. More light will make the kitchen seem larger.
- If not a skylight, install strong halogen downlights, spotted onto main task areas like cooktops, sinks, and preparation areas.
- Create a sense of space by using lighter wall and cabinet colours.
Storage
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 Install hanging rails for pots, pans and utensils if you have the ceiling space. Or mount a grid on a wall for this purpose (see pic on right from www.potracksgalore.com).
- Fit a strong metal bar underneath cupboards above workbenches, or along the splashback. Then hand utensils from butcher's hooks. In addition to the extra storage this will give you, your utensils will be just where you need them.
- Fit thin metal hooks and racks inside cupboards to store smaller items.
- Any area of bare wall is available vertical storage space. Any crevice or nook can be fitted with shelving, storage racks, hanging rails or cupboards.
Pantry
- Get more from your pantry by investing in a light folding step ladder or stool so that you can reach high cabinets and shelves.
- Use clear plastic caddies to group items together such as packet mixes and sauces. You can pull out the caddy when cooking without having to search while cooking.
- You can double your cupboard space by using portable, expandable pantry racks and shelves that allow you to use the spaces in between fixed shelves.
- Spice racks can be attached to the inside of the pantry doors.
 Drawers
- Organising drawers will give you the best use of the space and make it easy to find what you are looking for. Keep utensils sorted with fixed drawer organisers or even expandable cutlery trays for extra flexibility.
- You can design your own drawer configurations with a range of separate sorters in different sizes and shapes you can mix and add to, to suit your personal kitchen tool collection.
Eating
- If your kitchen is used for meals, look for a table that attaches to the wall and folds up, or allternatively a freestanding model with hinged leaves.
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