How to Remodel a Small L-Shaped Kitchen
- 1). Search for extra space you might use. Expand counter space to continue along one wall. Borrow a couple of feet of floor space from an adjoining room, if possible. Carve out space from a broom closet, back porch or underneath a staircase. Build an island in the center of the L-shape, if you have enough walking space on the perimeter walls.
- 2). Install floor-to-ceiling kitchen cabinets on one of the walls forming the L-shape; you might have to do away with counter space to accomplish this. Put in an island unit for counter space for food preparation. Buy deep cabinets that allow for storing lots of food items.
- 3). Buy or build an island that will hold pots and pans underneath. Design the island at least 3 feet by 5 feet, if you have room. Install three deep drawers in the island for placing skillets, pots and bakeware. Increase the island space by building fold-down counter tops that raise up to create more space. Use heavy-duty metal hinges on the sections that fold down.
- 4). Refinish existing cabinets in a lighter color to make the kitchen seem bigger. Leave some of your cabinets in varnished wood or wood material for a nice contrast. Paint the kitchen island to match painted cabinets. If cabinet doors are damaged, remove the doors and replace them with new doors.
- 5). Install new light fixtures, recessed lighting or track lighting in your kitchen. Choose lighting that brings focus to the new island area. Keep the lighting fixtures or track lighting on the understated side, so the lighting does not overwhelm your small kitchen.
- 6). Redo the kitchen floor to add a new, clean feeling. Choose new vinyl flooring in white with a small amount of accent color to make the kitchen seem bigger. Use leftover vinyl to line old cabinets under the sink for easy cleaning. Use vinyl to line old drawers or old cabinet shelves as well.
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