Compact Kitchen

Within the world of kitchen remodeling and design, the compact kitchen is a black sheep, an unclassifiable oddball. Compact kitchens fall in the twilight area between vacation home and primary residential spaces (i.e., condos) that have smaller-than-small kitchen space.

Let's examine the features, functions, and costs of compact kitchen units.

Compact Kitchen Units Defined

Compact kitchen does not mean small kitchen.

Average kitchen size hovers on the upper end of 100-200 sq. ft. A small kitchen is around 100 sq. ft. and smaller.

But a compact kitchen refers less to available space than it does to kitchen services--from counters to fridge to stove--bundled and sold as one unit.

Major Features of the Compact Kitchen

• Galley-Style Layout: Galley kitchens run in a straight line with no interruption between amenities.
• Small Refrigerator: Some compact kitchen units, though, can accommodate full-capacity refrigerators.
• Spartan Design: It's hard to go wild with kitchen configurations in such a small space. Companies that sell efficiency and compact kitchens tend to focus on upgraded finishes when they want to notch up the style.
• Contractor-Grade Finishes: Materials such as melamine, thermofoil, and stainless steel are typical, though as previously mentioned, some companies are providing Corian, solid wood, and even eco-friendly options.
• No-Name Appliances: While usually solid and fully functional, these are not GE Profile and Viking appliances.
• Total Widths: Width of the entire unit tends to range from 48" to 72".

Amenities Found in Compact Kitchen Units

• Range-and-Oven.
• Sink.
• Cabinet Space Below Sink.
• Counter Space.

Amenities typically available as optional: dishwasher, wall cabinets, microwave.

Compact Kitchens Cost

Prices for better compact kitchens, such as the pictured ACME, range from around $1, to $2,4000.