A little bit of space goes a long way—especially in the comparatively smaller spaces of kitchen counters. With all our appliances, tools and condiments, it’s sometimes hard to find much counter space to work on. But before you resign yourself to dabao meals forever, check out these 7 clever hacks to unlock hidden counter space and create a space-saving kitchen without clutter.
Install extendable or pull-out counter extensions
Image credit: Civil Jungle
If a minor renovation is on the menu, incorporating an extendable counter is a great way to add extra kitchen counter space. These can be pulled out, folded down, or slid out to provide additional workspace when needed, making them perfect for food prep.
Build vertical pull-out drawers for condiments, utensils & chopping boards
Image credit: @cubanhideaway
Another way to neatly organise your kitchen would be to build a pull-out condiment drawer. Its tiered design allows for neat organisation that efficiently stores everything from spices to soya sauce and oil bottles, keeping them out of sight and easily accessible.
Its slim vertical design also fits perfectly into awkward kitchen spaces, and you can customise the drawer’s height and depth to accommodate specific containers.
Image credit: thomasvillecabinetry
Install decorative hanging racks on your backsplash or walls
Image credit: Rejuvenation
The next thing to do is to observe your sparse kitchen walls and realise how much space you’re missing out on. Install a multi-purpose hanging rack or bar to organise utensils, pots, and pans.
Additionally, you can hang chopping boards on the wall for both storage and decorative purposes, creating great contrast against your kitchen backsplash while simultaneously giving it a secondary purpose.
Image credit: Zara
Additionally, window sills can serve as extra storage for small cooking staples like sugar and salt, or cleaning liquids and towels. By thinking vertically, you can keep your counters clear and organised.
Invest in sink covers
Another great way to maximise your kitchen counter space is by adopting a sink cover. There are a variety of options, including cutting boards or stainless steel racks. You can even ask your ID to fabricate a custom sink cover that matches your countertop material.
Over-the-sink covers provide extra prep space and make cleaning a breeze—just don’t forget to rinse those veggies.
Cover the stovetop when not in use
Image credit: West ElmImage credit: Woodshop Diaries
In a similar vein, you can also cover up the stovetop when not in use, with a custom-made stove cover or a sturdy cutting board to provide additional space for food prep.
By using your stovetop as a space for food preparation, you can create additional workspace and streamline your kitchen layout, eliminating the separation between the two sides of the counter top.
Buy multi-functional appliances
You can also simplify your kitchen and free up counter top space with multifunctional appliances. Consider options like the Wells Home Cafe to streamline your kitchen setup and reduce clutter.
Just make sure to channel your inner Marie Kondo and throw out whatever isn’t sparking joy. The fewer single-use, superfluous appliances you have in your kitchen, the more space you have on the kitchen counter top for food preparation.
Opt for pull-out appliance drawers in cabinets
Image credit: StudioDearborn
Alternatively, you can also consider storing any bulky appliances you have in a dedicated pull-out appliance drawer. These drawers allow easy access to any less-frequently used appliances while keeping them neatly tucked away when not in use.
Hacks to maximise counter top space in a small kitchen
While smaller kitchens can feel cramped, you can maximise your space with just a little creativity. These 7 space-saving kitchen hacks will declutter the counter top and maximise cooking space.
Read our other home & living guides:
- Built-in ideas to consider to save space in HDBs
- Best HDB dining nook ideas
- Best ways to hide your HDB structural beams without hacking
Cover image adapted from: Zara, Civil Jungle
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