How to Create a Compact Kitchen on a Budget

Space is something that not all homes have in abundance, especially those that are in city locations or properties such as studio apartments, flats, bungalows, cottages and terrace houses. Whilst a lot of these compact kitchens might not have the ideal square footage, this doesn’t mean that they can’t be a practical, stylish and welcoming space that enhances the home.

However, having a small space within which to create a beautiful yet functional kitchen can be a difficult task in itself, but doing so on a tight budget adds a whole new range of challenges.

Here we take you through some handy tricks, tips, advice and ideas to help give you a fabulous kitchen without draining your wallet.

• Be Thrifty

A great way to save money is to take a look at what’s already there that can be reused, repurposed or upcycled. It might be that your existing cabinets are in great condition and only need some paint and new handles to breathe new life into them. If not, then another option is to look at ex-display, preowned or second-hand kitchens for sale online! There are some amazing money saving options available that mean you can get all the units needed for your small kitchen at a much lower cost than you’d get new.

• Use Reflective Surfaces

As the light bounces off reflective surfaces, it creates the illusion of more space which makes them perfect for use in small kitchens. If you are trying to make your kitchen appear larger than it is, then why not try a mirrored backsplash, glazed cabinets, wall mirrors, shiny worktops, glossy wall tiles, or a combination of these clever yet affordable design elements?

• Ready Made Kitchenette

A large part of a kitchen budget is often spent on the building and installation of the units themselves as well as appliances and sinks etc. There are some specialist companies that sell pre-built compact kitchens that come in a range of styles, colours and configurations to suit your small kitchen. This means that all you have to do is have the electrics and plumbing ready so that they can be connected to the appliances upon delivery upon delivery. No mess, no fuss and no costly installation fees.

• Utilise Your Space

Your number one job when planning your small kitchen is to maximise the space provided and ensure that every square inch is being made the most of. Some things that you can do which won’t cost the earth include;

• Use the wall space available by installing wall cabinets, open storage, floating shelves or hooks
• The dead space above your units can be used for plants, artwork and accessories that add character without taking up surface space
• Choose smaller appliances such as kettles and toasters
• Clever storage such as utensil racks above the worktop, colourful spice racks on the wall or plate stackers inside cupboards are cheap and simple to do

• Add Character

A small kitchen doesn’t have to be soulless! Don’t be afraid to add some quirky accents, design features or accessories that will ensure it fits your home and the styles that you enjoy.

• If you are averse to being plain and simple, make a statement with some patterned wallpaper, bold tiles or funky flooring.
• For a pop of colour, a statement wall costs very little and can be extremely effective.
• Lush plants, pretty storage jars, wooden chopping boards and a pastel-coloured kettle can help to create a charming, country kitchen effect.

Have fun with it and make sure that you make it your own!