Space-saving solutions for the kitchen

From multipurpose furniture to smart accessories, find out how to optimise space in your kitchen without compromising on style and functionality.

SPACE-SAVING SOLUTIONS AND IDEAS FOR FURNISHING A SMALL KITCHEN

Can a small kitchen also be functional? Thanks to various space-saving solutions, fortunately it can! In this article, we will take a look at some ideas for optimising space without compromising on ergonomics and comfort.
The market offers myriad proposals to satisfy the needs of those who cannot count on a spacious kitchen. Lastly, by adding a touch of creativity, you can make the most of your kitchen, even from an aesthetic point of view.

SPACE-SAVING SOLUTIONS FOR THE STORAGE AREA

Among the various kitchen furniture elements, base units, wall units and tall units offer countless possibilities for customisation in order to meet the diverse requirements in terms of storage space management. As true multi-purpose objects, tall units can, for instance, be accessorised with retracting or pull-out doors, in order to fully exploit depth while limiting the opening footprint. Corner store rooms, which can be used as a pantry or to house large electrical appliances like washing machines and tumble dryers, are also a particularly effective option.

Base units, on the other hand, can exploit different storage systems: not only drawers, but also pull-out baskets for simple and comfortable access even to objects kept at the back of the units.
Drawers can be organised in a practical and functional manner, thanks to cutlery trays and internal partitions for a better organisation of utensils and accessories.

It is also fundamental to know how to maximise the use of vertical space, thanks also to functional panelling, utensil bars, and accessorised splashbacks.

Lastly, a vast choice of pull-out mechanisms to meet the most diverse requirements can be used to accessorise base units and tall units, in order to exploit all the space available. Broom-holder, kidney or multi-basket mechanisms are just a few of the many ideas for optimising the kitchen environment.

SPACE-SAVING HOUSEHOLD APPLIANCES

Household appliance technology has also evolved over time to offer built-in or concealed space-saving solutions. Conventional and microwave ovens are located in a raised position, for better ergonomics and greater comfort. As alternatives to classic lift-up or hinged doors, drop-down or vertically-sliding doors are ideal for saving further manoeuvring space.

Modern combination ovens make it possible to used different cooking systems even at the same time, while built-in refrigerators and dishwashers with an increasingly compact design ensure greater functionality, not to mention the advantages of ever-lower energy consumption.

Lastly, induction hobs without naked flames, extractor hoods and systems with an increasingly limited footprint and concealed electricity sockets make it possible to keep an efficient and always tidy kitchen while further limiting the space occupied.

SPACE-SAVING SOLUTIONS FOR THE WORK AREA

The work area can be equipped with different accessories to make it more comfortable and safer. The space dedicated to food preparation can be increased by using extending work tops that can be stowed away when not in use. A supplementary worktop can be obtained with an extension of the peninsula, or pull out from a concealed recess mounted on a wall, a base unit or a tall unit.

It is also possible to make full use of the vertical space not only on walls but also with solutions that complement the worktop and develop it on multiple levels, for instance by using the single or double overhead solutions, such as the Modus system and other accessories offered by Gentili Cucine.

Other space-savers include the corner configurations for sinks and the washing area. Cabinets and trolleys on wheels, preferably with a locking system, can be used also for serving in the dining room or even for a breakfast or drink on the terrace or veranda, for those with a small outdoor environment.

SPACE-SAVING SOLUTIONS FOR THE DINING AREA

In cases where the living area can be used as a dining room, there are myriad options for increasing the number of places at the table for use on special occasions.
Extending tables, folding or stacking chairs, and benches with built-in storage space can be used to accommodate guests in a cosy and comfortable manner.
A snack counter with stools, on the other hand, can serve the dual purpose of providing an additional top and creating an element that connects the kitchen with the living area.

SPACE-SAVING SOLUTIONS FOR ALL REQUIREMENTS

As we have seen, there are countless ideas and means for obtaining an efficient and functional kitchen even when space is limited.
Gentili Cucine offers a vast range of solutions and accessories for customising kitchen space to meet the most diverse requirements, thanks also to the modular nature of the Time programme.
Lastly, in addition to functionality, aesthetics must also be taken into consideration. Proper lighting and the right colour choices can make even a small kitchen cosy.
For more tips, read the article on Furnish a small kitchen.

SPACE-SAVING SOLUTIONS FOR THE KITCHEN: IDEAS AND TIPS FOR OPTIMISING SPACE