I recently moved from my small home to an even smaller one. I have (we – we have) entirely too much stuff.
It’s my task to declutter and “make it work”. This time, absent kids to consider, I am approaching the project slowly and with a focus on optimizing the spaces available.
There are some added challenges due to the fact that we don’t own, we rent. I’m thinking about permanence vs. mobility and opportunities to build on the foundation.
Because I find it difficult to get actual work done just anywhere, the spaces I use need to be optimized for best function and productivity.
For example, the kitchen’s size is not as important as the use of space.
First I had a little kitchen with meager cabinet space, a dishwasher, and a normal two-sided sink with standard faucet.
How we fit a family of 5 at a table, with a 2 piece china hutch, high chair, and microwave cabinet in that kitchen baffles me.
My next was a large kitchen with lots of Schrock cabinets, tons of counter space and specialty cabinets.
Appliances were placed in complementary positions, and it had a buffet counter/çook’s desk and large pantry cabinet with sliders.
The kitchen we currently have is not nearly as convenient or as big as the second but it’s bigger than the first kitchen, albeit less modern.
The double sided sink is smaller and shallower than a standard sink. It is also an inch shorter. The cabinets are old homemade throw together pieces of other cabinets.
They are poorly planned/placed and they aren’t very useful or convenient. I made use of unused steps to the attic (behind a door) by using the steps as a makeshift pantry.
I placed a large plastic shelving unit in the kitchen to store small appliances, mixing bowls, bakeware and dinnerware on.
I use a large mouth vase to store my large spoons, labels, spatulas, etc. right next to the stove, on the counter. It’s handier than in a drawer.
Our dishwasher is standing in a corner, in line for a custom built cabinet with wheels, so we don’t have to leave it when we move.
It’s not the perfect baking blogger’s kitchen, but it’ll work for now. Next up? My office.
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