Learn how to make small kitchens more functional

With the expansion of the real estate market, houses and apartments with reduced footage have become increasingly common. With that in mind, architects Priscila and Bernardo Tressino, from the PB Arquitetura office, brought some inspiration and guidelines to optimize kitchen space and eliminate the discomfort of cramped environments. Check out!

Think creatively

The duo is emphatic: regardless of the available area, the kitchen needs to appear according to the needs and preferences of the resident. “In this first stage, some questions arise so that we can define the project, such as the person who will use the environment the most, as well as the frequency and priorities. It is essential to know if the day-to-day will be more focused on the preparation, cooking or storage areas“, says Bernardo. Faced with this scenario, he and his partner, Priscila, manage to associate which are the essential items that need to be part of the project’s conjuncture.

From this series of questions, they can think of solutions, also known as the ‘creative step’, as they encompass a moment of free thinking – not only in architectural optimizations, but also in functionalities and decoration. All this, in line with the cook’s profile, will result in the personalized design of a small kitchen. “At this stage we can be creative to combine materials, color palette, ideas and the infinite possibilities to take advantage of the space”, says Priscila.

Smart solutions in architecture

planned joinery

Custom cabinets can be great for small kitchens. “We are not talking about filling the entire environment with cabinets, but thinking in a functional way with built-in baskets, niches, shelves. The walls can be put to good use with the installation of magnetic bars to allocate items such as knives, pans and spice holders”, explain the architects about taking advantage of the spaces effectively.

Carpentry as a solution must be adopted to save space, for this reason wall cabinets, and those above appliances, allow us to take advantage of vertical space and provide an additional purpose, as well as open shelves for storage without compromising the available area. “In this regard, it is also interesting to consider the insertion of drawers and large drawers that can bring things to us without much effort”, adds Priscila.

right coating

In the search for coatings, the options are diverse, but for professionals it is valuable to give preference to those that provide insulation and thermal resistance, as well as smooth models with low water and grease absorption, to facilitate cleaning.

For the backsplash, the most common are porcelain tiles, tiles, tiles, mosaics, glass inserts and even vinyl paper. “Give preference to moisture-resistant ones that maintain a pleasant temperature in the kitchen”, advises architect Bernardo.

For the countertop, the use of industrialized stones such as corian, and natural ones such as granite and marble. “In addition to aesthetics, the decision must involve resistance to high temperatures and options that are more difficult to stain, scratch or chip”, warns Priscila.

Take advantage of the corners and include a practical table

Very practical, the addition of a table in the corner, with one to four seats, can be a handy tool on busy days. “If there is any spare space, either on the island or on the bench, we always try to include a small table for quick meals”, comment the professionals. And this item, according to them, can be earned through an addition to the workbench, on the island, a German corner or a retractable table.

Layout with the triangle rule

The kitchen can have many layouts, even if it is reduced, appearing in models such as “U”, “L”, peninsula, with island and linear. Of these archetypes, only linear does not incorporate the application of the triangle rule. “This precept is nothing more than a technique where we position, in an imaginary triangle, the stove, fridge and sink to make everything more functional. Everything is one step away from the cook, avoiding many roundabouts, who must be at least 80 cm tall”, points out Bernardo.

Use reflective surfaces

Adding an “extra touch”, professionals recommend the occasional use of mirrors or other reflective materials. It is necessary to know how to position these items, without exaggerating, to maintain a harmonious kitchen that allows the feeling of greater breadth, depth, luminosity and elegance. “It is a new trend and in some segments, such as Feng Shui, it also symbolizes prosperity and abundance”, says Priscila.

Lighting

One of the most relevant points in a kitchen is the lighting, as this provides the effective performance of activities. The temperature preference is white light, but yellow light should not be given up either to enhance the environment and bring an inviting atmosphere. Lighting with pendants and built-ins is always welcome, as well as natural daylight – however, not all apartments have windows in the kitchen. “Good lighting in the kitchen is essential in architectural design, as it expands the spaces and does not leave the entrance to bad vision or glare from food”, analyzes the pair of architects.

The decor cannot be forgotten.

When decorating a small kitchen, you first need to think about promoting a welcoming environment. In addition to everything that was presented about functionality, practicality, lighting and other tips, the decor is something separate that needs to be combined with the resident, as it must follow or enter according to the decorative style of the House. “Some of our tips are to invest in a neutral base to maintain tranquility in the environment and make combinations with other color palettes that can be reflected in the materials, joinery or texture. To top it off, it’s always good to have plants too, letting the green add to its vitality.It is“, concludes Priscila.

By Emilie Guimarães