Kitchenette

Kitchenette Photos

The corner of the upstairs living area, unused until now, has been transformed in to a convenience kitchen. It is very compact, but is also practical to use. Almost everything is withing the cook's arm's reach. The elevated counter serves as extra work space, or as an eating area if bar stools are used from the other side. It also blocks the view of an untidy counter from the reamining living area. Some compromises were made: there is no dishwasher and no exhaust hood, but this was deemed acceptable for a kitchen expecting infrequent use. From an overall design point of view, with the exception of the electric stovetop, I find this kitchen easier to use than the main kitchen downstairs, which is 3 times the size.

Counter

Counter space was condensed in to one continuous area, so the cook can decide how to subdivide it as needed. The counter is one piece of dark green/black granite. Stove top is electric with a safety timer to automatically shut off. Gas was not installed for safety and convenience of renters who might not know how to replace the tank.

The dish drying rack and storage shelf are one in the same. This system was imported from Italy, where it is more common. After rinsing, dishes can be placed directly in to the storage cupboard. A cut-out in the bottom of the cupboard allows excess water to drip back in to the sink. This saves time and frees up more counter space.

Under the sink is a hidden pull out garbage pail. There is also a flash water heater, to instantly heat water when it is needed. This is more economical than maintaining a hot water tank, and it works faster because the pipe distance is short.

All space is utilized as much as possible. One of the wooden panels is actually a door which pops open to give access to storage space under the counter corner.