The Making Of Studio Kitchens

May 17, 2022

Remona Divekar

Studio kitchen spaces can be tough to keep organised, but not impossible. Connoisseurs Interior Designers share with Remona Divekar their design expertise to maximise the limitation of a given space and create a functional, purposeful, and operational kitchen.

While small apartments and homes often offer plenty in the charm and cosiness department, they tend to be lacking when it comes to kitchen space. A small, one-wall kitchen does not need to be the focal point of the space. In the limited space, thoughtful planning creates multifunctional and aesthetically appealing kitchens. Uninterrupted worktops help create the illusion of more space while providing a practical area for cooking.

Ketan Sheth, Founder, Goldmine Project Consultants says, “When the space is small it is ideal to have a straight platform. The better option is to have an L-shaped kitchen pantry. I do not really call it a studio kitchen but it is a studio pantry kind of thing, so L-shaped is the better option where you can accommodate many things.”

He further adds that the overall look and appeal have to be user-friendly, stylish, and equipped for easy functionality as it is part of the living area. “It is all about working with the layout of the space, even if the kitchens are confined to a single wall, U-shaped, or tucked in a corner.”

Well-thought aesthetics of a studio kitchen. Photo Courtesy: Anish Motwani

Optimum utilisation of space

It is challenging to fulfil all the requirements, yet, Anish Motwani, Interior Designer, Anish Motwani Associates has an optimistic view. “Careful placement of kitchen appliances improves the flow of small kitchens making it a unique style statement with a signature touch. Having lesser walls makes the space bigger. A good option is when you have guests as a movement it becomes easier and friendly. Choosing minimal-styled models reduce visual distractions and maintain a streamlined look.”

Furniture and flooring

The material used in the kitchen has to be easy to maintain. Sheth says, “Indian kitchens are full of spices and piquant food therefore for a healthy and hearty kitchen, it is important to design it in a compact, easy to work manner with modular furniture, drawers, pullout trays, storage systems, cabinets etc. Irrespective of its size, big or small, it is important to make it run smoothly to become liveable and likeable by not only arranging the equipment in a proper way but also with innovative furniture arrangement, lighting, proper plumbing techniques, and organised space-saving cabinets.”

Well-equipped and well-designed studio kitchen. Photo Courtesy: Anish Motwani

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Inside drawers made of stainless steel are easy to maintain than wood; add to the illusion of space with light-coloured or glass surfaces. Chimney plays an essential role in designing studio kitchens as an alternative in homes, which do not have windows as natural ventilation. “For the windows, honeycomb shutters, aluminium honeycomb with stainless steel body is strongly recommended where white ants and leakage are kept at bay. The best option is a natural stone for the counter. It is futile to plan for a mass of appliances that are never used or occasionally used. Limit to a minimum of essentials,” opines Sheth. A clutter-free floor space maintains a clear walking space within the kitchen.

Lightings and more

Allowing the natural light to enter the kitchen as much as possible during the day is crucial as bright light adds to the warmth and beauty of the small kitchen design. The use of white or other cool colours provides a feeling of spaciousness in the kitchen. Good lighting inside all the overhead cabinets, corners, and walls works well. Tidy and planned lighting at the ceiling works well.

Pendant lighting gives the dining area a perkier look. Incandescent lighting with yellowish colour under the upper cabinets helps to accentuate the countertop areas. In addition, kitchens with large windows provide enough ventilation and brightness. All the factors play an important role in making the kitchen with a smaller area look superior.

Open cabinets make a huge impact in the studio kitchen. Photo Courtesy: Anish Motwani