In the ever-decreasing spaces in which we live, new descriptors are sometimes needed to explain the simplified ways in which we’re conducting our daily lives. In some cases, though, old terminology can simply be dusted off and brought back into the modern vernacular.
Kitchenettes, once a term reserved for half-kitchens or cooking spaces with miniature appliances used in efficiency apartments and dormitories, are making quite the comeback. Although the city of New York, for example, has a somewhat finite definition of the term — less than 80 square feet of kitchen space qualifies as a kitchenette within the city that never sleeps — for the rest of us, it simply means “small kitchen” in general.
Kitchenettes can take on any number of forms; whether it’s an amalgam of appliances without much counter space between them, a long stretch of wall with everything lined up single file, a wraparound corner that sort of turns a traditional small kitchen inside-out, or a standalone cylinder with miniature fridge, range and sink, the options are endless, and to that end, designers are beginning to get delightfully inventive with what they’re cooking up.
Photo credits: Vitor Xavier, Baubauhaus, Waypoint Living Spaces and Iroonie
These small kitchens are adorable! But since I’m quite the busy chef, i wonder if any of these would work for me. I tend to need my counter space.
I have a small kitchen, and the lack of counter space can be a problem. But I think the addition of a rolling island (that can be tucked in the corner when not in use) would help.
That first photo is very cool, I haven’t seen anything like it before. How great for a small apartment! I wonder what something like that costs?
Great ideas, but that third picture looks like a full size kitchen to me – that fridge looks normal size!