As with any kitchen remodelling or redesign project, condo kitchen renovations in Toronto often face challenges particularly when it comes to space. A condo kitchen needs to be exceptionally functional as well as aesthetically pleasing.
In addition to offering extra space, a well-planned kitchen renovation can be designed with energy-efficient appliances, boost the overall condo value, and provide time-saving measures for the busy lifestyle of the occupants. Here are some tips for planning the best condo kitchen renovation.
Strategic Layout and Organization
Working within a small kitchen takes creativity when it comes to the layout and organization of the kitchen’s features. If possible, an open-concept kitchen will make the space look bigger and provide a seamless transition from the kitchen to the living room or dining area. You can further improve the function of your kitchen with the addition of an island or counter acting as a divider.
Use pull-out cabinets, floating shelves, overhead support bars, and drawer organizers to ensure every inch of available space is used in the layout design. If a counter or island is used, there will be more space-saving solutions for storage and seating with stools.
Compact Appliances and Multi-Functional Fixtures
With more people moving into condos, the Toronto market has shifted in recent years to accommodate compact appliances that offer multiple functions. Keep this in mind when planning a condo kitchen renovation, specifically when it comes to choosing countertops and kitchen islands.
The best part about a compact condo kitchen renovation is the fact that you can use space-saving and time saving appliances such as a double oven, a microwave/oven, and a small refrigerator. Multifunction equipment and appliances such as an air fryer, stand-up mixer/blender, and a pressure cooker that offer steaming, warming, and sauté features will free up space and time.
Smart Storage Solutions
Ask any condo owner what the one thing their luxurious home lacks and the answer will probably be “space”. Incorporating smart storage solutions with a condo kitchen renovation can significantly double the space in the room. Storage offers organization, time management, and a boost to the aesthetics of a kitchen.
Cabinets with pull-out shelves, corner lazy-susans, swing-out racks, and wall shelves for spices and small appliances can transform a cluttered countertop into a workstation. Utilizing the space between the counter and large appliances such as the refrigerator or oven can be done with the installation of a skinny cabinet for baking sheets.
Lighting and Mirrors
With smaller kitchen spaces, the key to giving the illusion that the room is bigger than it actually is to draw the eye upwards. This can be achieved with the use of proper lighting and mirror placement.
Installing under-the-cabinet lighting complemented with pedant lighting or a chandelier will help to increase the depth of the room without needing to change the structure of the kitchen. Adding a mirrored backsplash or mirrors along the wall “opens” and makes it appear larger.
Customized Built-Ins and Furniture
Similar to the multifunctional appliances to save space, multifunctional furnishings can help maximize storage, space, and organization in the kitchen. Consider installing a collapsible sideboard for extra counterspace when needed or an island equipped with a stovetop, dishwasher, or sink.
Take advantage of redesigning the kitchen by incorporating customized cabinets, shelves, and drawers. These space-saving storage units can provide built-in compartments for pots, glassware, dishes, or pantry items. Coloured stainless steel pegboards can be part of the wall décor to hang spice racks, large utensils, or other cooking equipment.
Innovative Design Trends
Ito keep the condo kitchen renovation trendy yet timeless, use light and airy colours on the walls, appliances, cabinets, and countertops to brighten the space. Glass-front cabinets offer an aesthetically pleasing aspect to showing off dinnerware while offering the illusion that your kitchen has more space within the small quarters of the room.
Hanging the cabinets above the countertop with enough room for a workspace can also provide space for storage shelves for spices or small glasses. Increase the visual depth of the cabinets and overall kitchen space by using a touch latch or recessed lip for cabinets and drawers rather than large knobs and handles.
Compact Dining Solutions
Toronto condos often have little to no space for large dining room tables, chairs, and storage hutches. Using an island or dividing countertop as a table as well as a workspace can eliminate the need to crowd an area with a table and chairs. Consider backless bar stools to reduce the bulkiness of dining room chairs.
Where possible, install a folding table that sits flushed with the wall for easy access and can be out of sight and out of the way when not being used. This type of table can be a multifunctional furnishing as it can also be used as a workstation or for family game night.
Maximizing Vertical Space
To enhance the visual openness of a condo kitchen, use the existing space above the room. Hanging overhead racks for pots and pans can save tons of storage space in cupboards while improving access to the cookware. A hanging floating shelf unit over the kitchen island can also increase storage space while drawing the eye upward for a more open feel to the room.
Kitchen designers suggest extending the cabinets to the ceiling to maximize the available vertical spacing of a kitchen. This provides more storage for dishware and pantry items while giving the illusion of tall ceilings in a small kitchen.
Learn More about Lampert Renovations’ Kitchen Renovation Services
For more condo kitchen renovation ideas, talk to the design/building experts at Lampert Renovations. We are a family-owned business that has been servicing the GTA with renovations for more than 45 years. Our team of certified plumbers, renovators, and technicians are ready to help you transform your small condo kitchen into a welcoming and functional dream kitchen. We offer quality craftsmanship and excellent customer service.
Call (416) 787-4925 to schedule a free no-obligation onsite consultation or to book an appointment in our showroom.
