With so many
people downsizing as they age and their lifestyles change, I’m interested in finding new products designed for smaller spaces, particularly kitchens. The last time I built a really small kitchen was
for a studio apartment and the configuration wound up being nothing more than a few
cabinets lined up against a short wall
with a stove on one end and refrigerator on the other - definitely pretty standard and boring. The updated version of a studio kitchen or kitchenette, the compact kitchen, has opened the door to more interesting small space design. The compact kitchen is a space saving
combination appliance/cooking center that is specifically designed for the home,
but for a far more casual lifestyle. Take a look at some of the new compact kitchens
being offered on the market today. Kitchoo, a French company, has
designed compact kitchens that provide all the functionality expected from a
kitchen in the least space possible. Most models incorporate an integrated
fridge-freezer, an induction hob with 2 rings, and a telescopic mixer tap,
while optional extras include integrated dishwasher, microwave oven, washing
machine, recycling bin and cutlery rack, depending on the model. Kitchoo compact kitchens are sophisticated,
well-equipped and extremely practical. The five designs, including the
award-winning K1 kitchen, can be hidden away behind closed doors when not in use and
look like any other cupboard or dresser that you might find at home. Right now Kitchoo is only sold in the UK,
Switzerland and throughout Europe with future plans to distribute in the United
States. Current pricing is about 5390
euros ($ 6,978) for the K1 kitchen to
about 6800 euros ($8,805) for the larger K2 kitchen version. Keep in mind installation is extra. Kitchoo K1 Compact Kitchen   Kitchoo K2 Compact Kitchen    If you’re looking for something
that makes a strong style statement, how about the CircleKitchen ? Designed by Compact Concepts, this kitchen furniture manages to handle space
problems in a highly functional and stylish manner, although the unit only
measures about 6 sq ft. It
features all the characteristics of a usual kitchen. Integrated with the
ability to rotate as much as 180 degrees, the Circle Kitchen provides everything from a regular sink, to dishes, a microwave and
even a dishwasher. Pricing is between $6,500 and $15,000 plus installation
costs. Styles range from the sleek and modern basic circle  To a more subdued look with additional cabinetry  There are also more
traditional (and less costly) compact kitchens being offered. Acme Kitchens specializes in a full line
of custom made all-in-one built ins designed around your specifications.  Here is a 60”
electric compact kitchen with built-in oven. This model provides additional
base storage space and allows for use of a separate upright refrigerator. It includes a 20 gauge stainless steel
counter top, sink bowl, single lever faucet, sink strainer, four (4) electric
burner elements and a 24" wide electric oven with black glass door and
convection bake feature. Many options are possible; you may substitute a gas
burner cooktop, include a dishwasher and alter the appearance by choosing a
custom color, counter top and door finish. And another Acme kitchenette design  Compact Kitchens offers units ranging in 4 sizes: 30”, 39”, 48”, and 60” which are priced from $899 to $1,499 plus shipping and installation. Their 60" wide (c-60) model features the sink on the right, two 110 volt electric sealed burners, and two generous storage com-apartments. Refrigerator freezer is off center in middle. Dimensions are 59.5" Wide X 38" Tall X 24" Deep.  With the current trend towards downsizing, innovative space-saving designs for the
home are more important than ever. And as added
bonus, installation of these kitchen units is much easier and less costly than installing the
components of a more traditional kitchen. Are these units going to be suitable for everyone? Certainly not, but when looking to conserve space while at the same time enhancing design, the new compact kitchens are worth a second look.  Susan Luxenberg President HomeSmart LLC |
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