What Is A Kitchenette?

By its name you can safely assume that a kitchenette is something similar to a kitchen. That’s true, but if you’re wondering what a kitchenette is, there are quite a few distinct differences between the two. Let’s take a look at kitchenettes from top to bottom to answer the question; what is a kitchenette? 

What Is a Kitchenette?

Basically, a kitchenette is a smaller version of a kitchen.The largest differentiator between the two is size, as most kitchenettes are usually only 80 square feet or less. A kitchenette has less counter and storage space than a full kitchen. 

These types of kitchen layouts typically lack a stove and large refrigerator, but maintain the rest of the kitchen features. Another difference you may notice is a kitchenette usually opens up into an adjacent living space and is not its own room or section like a traditional kitchen. 

Where Do Kitchenettes Work Best? 

Many people find that kitchenettes are useful in a variety of situations with limited square footage. You may notice kitchenettes in places like hotel rooms, vacation homes, guesthouses, and even in basements. 

What Is Included In A Kitchenette?

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The point of a kitchenette is to be compact and save space, which means there probably is not enough room for full-size appliances. In most kitchenettes, you will see a mini fridge instead of a full size fridge, and a hot plate or small cooktop instead of a full stove. 

Depending on the size of the space, a kitchenette may also include other small appliances like a coffee maker, toaster, and airfryer. When designing a kitchenette, it’s important to be realistic about the amount of space you have when determining the types of features and appliances.

Advantages Of A Kitchenette 

A few advantages of kitchenettes include: 

• Lower cost: Installing and maintaining a kitchenette can be very wallet-friendly since they are smaller and have less appliances. The average U.S homeowner will spend an average of $26,300 on kitchen remodel costs, but you can expect kitchenette remodels to cost much less based on square footage

• Higher property value: Including a kitchenette in your guest house or basement can be a selling point for future home buyers, potentially increasing your resale value. 

• Space: You can use a kitchenette to your advantage when looking at the layout of a space. There will be more room for furniture and other things you may want to include when designing the room.

Disadvantages Of A Kitchenette 

A few disadvantages of kitchenettes include: 

• Lack of storage: Since kitchenettes are smaller, you won’t have as much storage space, meaning there’s less room for appliances, storage, and kitchen cabinets.

• Lack of appliances: The lack of kitchen appliances like a stove will make it harder to prepare certain meals. 

• Location: Kitchenettes are usually located in the main living space, making it the center of attention when entertaining and cooking certain meals. 

How to Get The Most Out Of Your Kitchenette 

Even though kitchenettes are small, there are ways to optimize them so they perfectly fit your needs. Here are a few tips you can try to get the most out of your space:

• Use light paint colors: Light wall colors can make a room appear larger, especially if there is a lot of natural light because of the way the light will reflect off of the surfaces.

• Add a colorful backsplash: You can also play around with backsplash ideas to bring more dimension and help separate the space from the rest of the room.

• Be strategic about appliances: Plan your appliances carefully to maximize space. For example, a large toaster oven can be very bulky and take up useful counter space. Consider using a small airfryer since they are multifunctional and can work as a toaster, broiler, and oven. 

• Get crafty with hooks and shelving: Installing a few shelves on a wall in your kitchenette can help create more storage space. You can also install a few hooks on your cabinets where you can hang towels, pots, and pans. 

• Hire a kitchen remodel pro: You may be inclined to take your kitchenette on as a DIY project, but don’t hesitate to reach out to professional kitchen remodeler in your area for design and installation help. 

• Consider including an island: There are tons of options nowadays for movable kitchen islands that can be used to prep your meals. You can even look into building your own island so it fits your space perfectly.