5 Ways This Small Kitchen Maximizes Space

Small Space Kitchen
Photography by Scot Zimmerman

By Ann Zimmerman

With space at a premium, this little kitchen utilizes every square inch for efficient workspace and storage—without sacrificing a pleasing design. 

In any home, space is one of the most important, and often most challenging, aspects of design. For this new contemporary home, the design is constrained by the 25-foot-wide lot where a miner’s cottage once stood. An open living space occupies the second floor, and with careful design, the width constraints aren’t apparent in the sophisticated black and white kitchen.

Kitchen
Photography by Scot Zimmerman
1. High-Vaulted Ceilings

This kitchen claims a long rectangle under a high, beamed section of the ceiling with the cabinets creating an “L” shape along the walls. A sleek island squares up the area and has bar seating that invites conversation.

Bar Sink
Photography by Scot Zimmerman
2. Bar Sink

The island adds countertop workspace, and the low stools eliminate any visual barriers to the open sides. It also features an elongated bar sink, which can aid in food preparation or be filled with ice during parties and become a handy ice bucket.

Kitchen
Photography by Scot Zimmerman
3. Open Design 

The flow of the kitchen allows foot traffic to easily access the dining and living areas. The layout still affords maximum workspace and storage.