How To Remodel a Small Kitchen

Kitchen Remodeling

Remodeling any kitchen can be a challenge at times, and small kitchens tend to make the process feel even more frustrating. “There’s never enough room!” and “My kitchen is too small to look good” are common comments we get from many Salem homeowners.

At Blackdog Design/Build, we say a small kitchen can look and feel awesome. You just need to know where to start and how to create a space that flows well for you.

Contact our New Hampshire remodeling experts for a free consultation today.

How To Maximize Space in a Small Kitchen

Need some help framing your New Hampshire small kitchen remodel? Follow along with our design and build experts while we assess what makes a small, cramped kitchen into a comfortable part of your home (that you can really fall in love with!).

Step One: Figuring Out How To Make a Small Kitchen Flow

Literally any space can be made up to look pretty or luxurious. That’s not really the problem with a smaller kitchen. The problem is making it look great while also keeping it functional. To accomplish this, you need to establish flow and add space in whatever ways you can to minimize clutter and optimize working space. 

There are actually many ways to do this. Here are some of our most popular small kitchen additions:

• Using custom cabinetry: Standardized cabinets tend to feel very blocky and offer little in the way of storage. Custom-crafted cabinets suit your space better overall and add compartmentalized storage and recessed shelving. Everything has a place to go, and you get cabinets that are custom-built to look great in your kitchen.
• Upgrading (or downsizing) your appliances: Still using a bloated cube of a stove that came out of the 80s? Now’s a great time to update to smaller, more efficient appliances. You can find great ways to save space and streamline the look of the room while saving energy and lowering utility costs.
• Installing a garden or box window: Or even a bay or bow window. These windows protrude outward, literally adding space where you can decorate or plant an herb garden indoors. Plus, the natural light really opens the room up, making it feel brighter, more comfortable, and less cramped.

The best layouts for small kitchens are typically galley and L-shaped designs, as they maximize floor and counter space. These layouts help create efficient work zones, reduce clutter, and improve flow in a compact area.

Step Two: Handling Color

Once the framework is done, it’s time to add color. And, believe it or not, this can be the most important step. The wrong use of color, like too many deep tones or heavy use of excessive brights, will quickly turn a small space into a cramped one. Instead, look for lighter, airier colors that make the room open up.

We’re particularly fond of pairing quartz countertops with modern stainless steel appliances and a monochrome color scheme. Depth, visual appeal, and space-opening for the eyes all at once.

Step Three: Lighting Design That Adds Space & Appeal

A small kitchen (in most cases) is not the place for heavy pendant lights or chandeliers. But that doesn’t mean you’re stuck with 90s-chic track lighting. Recessed lights, under-cabinet lighting, light, artsy pendant lights, and wall sconces can all brighten your space and give you plenty of task lighting without crowding the room.

Small Kitchen Remodels in New Hampshire & Massachusetts

Think your small kitchen is doomed to feel more like a closet than an important part of your home? We disagree!

Contact our kitchen remodel experts and we’ll help you build the custom kitchen you’ve always dreamed of.