Ask any chef what the requirements of a great kitchen are, and the answer will be in the form of one single word: functionality. Of course, most professional chefs work in industrial kitchens that are full of stainless steel surfaces and where pots and pans are hanging for easy reach – not exactly the most welcoming environment should you try to recreate this in your own kitchen, at least not from an aesthetic point of view.

Still, you can have your own well-functioning kitchen simply by thinking a little differently; no matter how small your kitchen may be, there are simple things you can do to that bring about massive improvement. Here’s how to optimise the functionality of your small kitchen.

Think about the cabinets

You may not need as many cabinets as you originally think; rather than filling your kitchen with cabinets (which take up too much space), see what you truly need to store in your kitchen, and make allowances for only those things. Pans and pots you seldom use, as well as appliances that rarely get taken advantage of, could be stored in another space. This frees up a lot of space.

Worktops

When it comes to worktops, make sure they are of quality material such as the granite worktops London from J.R. Stone, and are easy to clean and to maintain. Also, avoid cluttering them with items that get in the way of functionality. Not only will a clean and smooth worktop create the illusion of more space, it will also make it much more convenient for cooking and baking.

Appliances

There is a flow in the kitchen (and this largely depends on the manner of acting and habits formed by the cook or chef). By positioning the appliances in line with that natural flow, you immediately create a functional and practical atmosphere.

Utensils

Lower shelves or corner carousel-shelves are excellent ways to store small utensils and save space. Add various trays and pull-out baskets. These solutions help store smaller items very efficiently.

Colours

For small kitchens, lighter colours are ideal – you want as much light to be bouncing off the walls as possible. Try to keep the colour scheme simple and avoid patterns or chaotic-looking motifs.

One more thing you should examine carefully: your lighting needs. Let in as much natural light as possible – natural light isn’t just free, it’s also the healthiest. It also gives the kitchen that light and bright character. Choose your artificial lighting carefully; make sure it’s bright enough for your practical purposes, but avoid an industrial look. Having lights on the walls rather than overhead can eliminate shadows, which is important. It doesn’t take much to create that perfect kitchen – you just have to follow some simple design rules to make even the smallest of kitchens the perfect place to cook.

Image attributed to Pixabay.com