Small Kitchen? No Problem! Genius Ways to Add a Microwave
Having a tiny kitchen with limited space can make it tricky to find a spot for a microwave. But with some creative thinking and smart solutions, you can install a microwave in even the smallest culinary nook.
The key is looking beyond the standard kitchen counters and getting vertical. By utilizing unused upper spaces or concealed areas, you can free up precious real estate for meal prep and dining.
Tuck It Away Inside Cabinets
One genius idea is to tuck your microwave completely inside an upper cabinet or pantry. This keeps the appliance hidden when not in use, opening up your countertop workspace. All you need is a standard microwave and a little DIY handiwork.
Start by measuring the interior dimensions of the cabinet and cut an appropriately sized opening in the back. Make sure to leave a couple inches of clearance on all sides for ventilation. Then install a microwave trim kit, which neatly seals any gaps and gives your microwave a sleek, built-in look.
Consider a Microwave Drawer
For a similar concealed effect, install a drawer microwave in a base cabinet. Simply remove the cabinet drawer and replace it with a built-in microwave model. Close the drawer when not cooking to hide the microwave and regain precious square footage.
Mount It Overhead
Another space-saving option is an over-the-range microwave installed above your stovetop. Special microwave models are designed specifically to mount to the bottom of upper cabinets, saving your countertops for meal prep and dining.
Some over-the-range models even pull double duty as a range hood, with built-in ventilation systems to keep your kitchen fume-free. Look for a low-profile design that won't obstruct your view or access to the cabinets.
Roll It Away on a Cart
For a movable option, consider a microwave cart. This allows you to roll the microwave out of the way when not in use. Simply roll it next to the counter or table when reheating food, then tuck it out of the high-traffic work zone.
Look for carts with storage like shelves or drawers to maximize functionality. And durable casters let you easily roll the microwave across your floors. Use a compact or countertop microwave that fits the cart surface.
Build It Into Islands and Peninsulas
Kitchen islands are great spots to incorporate a microwave, especially in open floor plans. Tuck a compact microwave into an island or peninsula end for easy access. This saves precious surface area for meal prep and dining.
For a streamlined look, install the microwave flush with the counter height. Add customized trim and hardware for an integrated appearance. Position it near outlets and wisely coordinate traffic patterns.
Find the Right Size
When shopping for a small kitchen, look for microwave ovens with less than 1 cubic foot capacity. These compact models offer full power and features, while taking up a minimal footprint.
Opt for a streamlined control panel, which wastes less exterior space. And seek units with a roomy interior - some have innovative designs to maximize usable cooking room without bulking up the outside.
Top brands like LG, Toshiba, and Panasonic make special microwave ovens designed for small kitchen needs. Look for models marketed as "compact," "countertops," or "small spaces."
Aside from clever microwave placement, there are other ways to make the most of your petite cooking space. Add tiered storage racks inside cabinets and drawers to multiply usable space. Roll-out shelves, turntables, and pull-out drawers all optimize interior real estate.
Multipurpose carts act as extra counters when you need them, then tuck away when not in use. Fold-down prep tables and butcher block tops also maximize existing surfaces.
A few simple upgrades can make even the tiniest kitchen highly functional. With smart microwave placement and optimization, you can cook comfortably in the coziest of culinary corners.