5 Key Planning Tips for Remodeling a Closed Kitchen Floor Plan

There are advantages to closed kitchen floor plans. However, remodeling a closed kitchen also comes with unique challenges compared to more open layouts. From optimizing workflow to improving lighting, careful planning is key before starting any renovation project.

Whether you're looking to update a dated, cramped cooking space or creating your dream kitchen oasis, these key strategies will help you maximize functionality and style.

Tip 1: Evaluate the Existing Layout and Workflow

Before finalizing any remodeling plans, take time to thoroughly evaluate how your current closed kitchen functions. Identifying any inefficiencies in the existing layout or workflow is pivotal for improvement.

Conduct a Workflow Analysis

Observe how you and other household members use the kitchen over the course of several days. Make note of any bottleneck areas or issues, like cramped spaces, appliances in inconvenient locations, or inadequate lighting for task areas. Also, pay attention to where you transition between key zones like food storage, ingredient prep, cooking, cleaning, and trash/recycling.

Map Out Traffic Zones

With a permanent marker, trace commonly used routes on the floor. Look for areas where paths intersect or overlap. This visualization shows potential workflow collisions you'll want to remedy in the redesign. It also indicates zones that need better task lighting or safety considerations.

Document Appliance Positions

Note the placement of major appliances like the stove, refrigerator, and sink. Do doors or handles pose accessibility problems? Are appliances spaced too far apart to allow efficient movement between cooking steps? Mark appliance dimensions on your floor plan as reference.

Audit All Existing Storage

Take stock of all your current kitchen storage to identify deficiencies. Are wall or base cabinets overloaded while others sit empty? Catalog the contents to get a handle on what should be kept versus purged. This allows accurate planning for your updated cabinetry layout. The inventory also helps select any specialty storage components like pull-out shelves or tiered drawers.

Tip 2: Rethink Cabinetry and Storage Solutions

One major advantage of closed kitchen floor plans is the ample wall space for installing storage-boosting cabinetry. But cabinet choice and configuration also impact functionality significantly.

Wall-Mounted Cabinets

Typically the most abundant cabinet type in a closed kitchen design, wall cabinets provide copious storage. Glass-front upper cabinets keep items visible while protecting from dust. Wall cabinet height, depth, and crown moldings should suit your storage needs and style preferences.

Base Cabinet Choices

The standard is full-height base cabinets, but you can also incorporate specialty options like microwaves or appliance garages for stand mixers. Consider roll-out trays or tilt-down doors to access items in deep cabinet interiors with ease. Custom builtins like banquettes, desk areas, or spice racks make use of every inch.

Pull-Out Shelves and Trays

To efficiently use all available space, include pull-out shelves or trays in wall and base cabinetry. Full-extension shelves provide complete access to contents in the back without any heavy lifting. Customize tray configurations to corral cooking utensils, pots and pans, or pantry goods.

Drawer Dividers

Within drawers, use cutlery inserts, compartment racks, and trays to divide space for optimized organization. This keeps items visible at a glance and simplifies putting things away after use.

Tip 3: Select Space-Saving Appliances

Every inch matters when remodeling a closed kitchen layout. Choosing appliances sized appropriately for your available footprint allows packing in function without cramping the room.

Compact Refrigerators

Oversize refrigerators dominate precious floor area in tiny kitchens. Opt instead for narrower or counter-depth models. Make up lost interior capacity with added freezer drawers or undercounter wine coolers as needed. Refrigerator columns with bottom freezers also save space.

Narrow Slide-In Ranges

Standard professional ranges span 30 inches, limiting placement options in small closed kitchens. More maneuverable 20- to 24-inch slide-in models better fit tight spots without compromising performance or burner count. Models with convection baking or induction cooktops maximize functionality.

Undercounter Wall Ovens

Built-in wall ovens clear the counter area, increasing available workspace. Stacked double wall ovens allow serious multitaskers to bake on two levels simultaneously. Speed up oven preheats by 25-50% with convection cooking features.

Shallow Depth Dishwashers

At only 18 to 22 inches deep, slim dishwashers tuck discretely under counters when not entertaining a crowd. Despite compact size, innovative racks like adjustable upper racks and third racks accommodate full loads. Quick cycles save time when washing smaller batches.

Tip 4: Improve Lighting, Ventilation and HVAC

Closed kitchens often contend with insufficient lighting, stale air, and uncomfortable temperatures during cooking. Simple upgrades make a big difference in functionality and comfort.

Recessed Ceiling Lights

Ambient ceiling lighting ensures consistent illumination for general tasks. Go beyond basic can lights with adjustable trim models putting light exactly where required. Consider color-changing temperature adjustments from bright, invigorating daylight to softer evening light.

Under Cabinet Lighting

LED strip lighting or puck lights installed under wall cabinets directly illuminate countertop work zones. Controls like remote dimmers, motion sensors, and timers customize lighting schemes and usage.

Ventilation Hood over Cooktop

Proper ventilation is a must for any closed kitchen prone to stuffiness. Downdraft systems hide seamlessly behind ranges until needed. Wall-mount chimney hoods covering the entire cooktop surface-mount or insert directly into cabinetry. Optimize air flow rates by coordinating with ducting size.

Update HVAC Equipment

If your current heating and cooling system strains to maintain comfortable conditions, it may be time for an upgrade. Consult HVAC experts on solutions like multiple temperature zone controls catering to the kitchen's unique demands.

Tip 5: Incorporate Stylish, Durable Finishes

Closed kitchen aesthetics significantly impact the overall home decor and ambiance. Choose finishes that withstand heavy use while complementing your design vision.

Countertop Materials

Quartz and granite counters add luxury even in compact kitchens. While resistant toScratch-proof, non-porous quartz requires little maintenance. Granite's natural beauty pairs with any design, from modern to traditional. Soapstone and ceramic tile suit smaller budgets.

Get Creative with Backsplashes

Mosaic tiles, metal tiles, or glass sheets make stunning backsplash accents while protecting walls from spills and splatters. Consider removable peel-and-stick backsplash panels permitting easy DIY upgrades down the road.

Choose Durable, Spill-Proof Flooring

For flooring material, prioritize water-resistance and ease of cleaning. Epoxy coatings apply directly over existing floors for quick upgrades. Stylish luxury vinyl plank (LVP) flooring withstands dropped dishes and staining. Choose textured LVP for slip resistance.

Warm up the Space with Wood

The sleek lines of contemporary cabinetry balance beautifully against natural wood finishes. Wood accent walls or open shelving add welcoming warmth. Eco-friendly bamboo cabinets make a sustainable statement with durability and rich grain patterns.

By following these five essential tips for remodeling closed kitchen layouts, you'll end up with a beautiful, highly functional cooking space tailored to your needs. Carefully evaluating your existing kitchen, optimizing storage solutions, installing space-saving appliances, upgrading lighting and finishes ultimately pays dividends for years to come.

While closed kitchen remodels require some unique considerations, the results can be every bit as stunning as open concept designs with careful planning. Enlisting the help of kitchen designers ensures you find the right balance of aesthetics and precision functionality.