A small kitchen area is a common problem in most high-rise buildings. A few square meters must accommodate a kitchen set, a table, chairs and, preferably, a refrigerator. I don't want to sacrifice anything. Therefore, it is worth using your imagination and solving the problem in an original way.
How much space do you need for a full lunch?
First of all, it is important to note that although a small table and chairs may fit in your kitchen, the battle is not won yet. In everyday life, we often find that a table can fit, but eating at it is definitely not easy - especially if you have to host a large number of guests!
For comfortable eating, you need to have at least a few centimeters around the chairs and in general around you. It's minimum!
- If sitting is uncomfortable, when the stomach is pressed against the edge of the table, the chair is inserted approximately 35 cm below the table.
- However, no one wants to sit like that. This is extremely uncomfortable and painful, so when sitting normally, the chair moves away from the table by at least 15 cm.
- If we want to sit really pleasantly and comfortably, then the chair moves away from the table by about 70 cm, and while sitting and rising by another 5-10 cm.
- And all this is exactly the space that should be taken into account when choosing.
- The fact is that the selected table, including the chair, fits in the space, but every time you stand up, the chair begins to get stuck in obstacles. Nobody will have fun anymore.
- If the table is located so that when working in the kitchen it is behind our back, then the distance between the kitchen and the table should be at least 150 cm.
In addition, the minimum table width per visitor is 50 cm, but 60 cm will certainly be much more convenient.
Built-in dining tables
One of the simplest and most convenient solutions is folding tables, which after eating are simply folded along the wall and do not take up extra space (after all, we do not use the table one hundred percent of the time). When eating, just place them straight and place chairs on both sides, the dining area is ready.
There are also built-in desks on the market that simply slide out from the wall. These built-in tables can suddenly turn into a narrow shelf that can be used as a small storage space for things that won't fit on the kitchen cabinets while cooking.
- The chairs for these folding and extendable tables are ideal for storage, for example stacked on top of each other in a corner.
- However, it is important to understand that this system is ideal for a maximum of two people.
- If there are more family members at the table, you simply need to take turns eating.
Many will say that this is not entirely convenient; there are several other options for you to solve this difficult problem.
Modern transforming tables: advantages
Folding tables have been popular for a long time: for small apartments they will be the best solution. The main reason for the demand for such furniture is related to its compactness when folded. Transformable tables are available in any shape and size, and you can make them to order, taking into account the specific layout of your room.
Another advantage of these tables is their visual similarity to ordinary compact kitchen tables. Your interior will always look harmonious and cozy, unlike kitchens where you have to huddle due to the installation of large tables.
The undoubted advantage of transformation tables is their versatility. It is not at all necessary to use them strictly for their intended purpose:
- a table with high legs will replace a full-fledged bar counter; models with a folding tabletop when closed can be used as shelves along the walls;
many versions of transforming tables are equipped with hooks, convenient for storing kitchen items;tables with a wide base can have additional niches for storage;
low level tables will also serve as coffee tables.
By the way, the convenience of tables of this type also lies in the lightness of the materials: they can be moved to different areas of the kitchen, and, if necessary, moved to other rooms.
Tip: if you are looking for a table that can perform multiple functions, pay attention to models with adjustable height.
To make using such a table convenient for each family member, consider in advance all possible options for its use. Modern transforming tables differ in their assembly mechanisms, which affect both the durability of the structure and the final cost of such furniture.
Folding dining table
Some manufacturers also offer solutions in the form of folding tables. If a small kitchen can accommodate at least a small table for two, you simply create a large table out of it that can accommodate 5-6 people.
However, for these cases it is ideal to move the table to the living room, because in such a small kitchen a table for 5 people is completely unrealistic, everyone will be cramped and uncomfortable. In this case, it is advisable to have enough chairs, so buy several folding chairs for two classic ones, which can be stored in a closet or pantry.
Kitchen table color
A dark dining table looks good and presentable, but in a small kitchen it is not the best option.
It is better to pay attention to light beige or white models. A light wood table would be a good option for a small kitchen. The use of similar colors makes it possible to visually expand the interior. The pastel shade of the table is neutral, so visually such a piece of furniture will not clutter up the kitchen space.
Ideas for a small kitchen
In a U-shaped kitchen, it is desirable to create a relaxation area by expanding the work surface. Of course, if space allows. However, there should no longer be a cupboard under the tabletop so that we have room for chairs and also so that we have a place to put our feet when sitting.
With the expansion of the working surface, we get more space for cooking, which every housewife will appreciate.
Do not forget that classic chairs are not enough for this seating, they are too low, the best option in this case would be high bar stools, it is better if they have a back. This will help create additional comfort.
Mobile
Another type of tables for small kitchens can be called mobile tables. These are small models that can be moved around the perimeter of the room or kitchen unit.
A special guide is attached to the front of the bottom row of the cabinet, for example, under the tabletop. It acts as a rail along which the table can be moved within a horizontal plane.
As a rule, such tables are equipped with additional support legs, which can be folded.
Custom solutions for the kitchen
If you can fit even a small table in the corner of your kitchen, consider purchasing a bench. At least three people can sit on an L-shaped dining bench with a length of at least 150 cm.
- If space allows, you can place two separate chairs opposite the table on the other side of the seat.
- In addition, a bench can serve as a practical item in the kitchen if it has storage space.
Pillows or blankets can be stored in this “stash.” Often in such corners people store bags, large jars of cereals and other products that have a long shelf life and do not require special temperature conditions, this also applies to stewed meat.
In addition, if you decorate the bench with decorative textiles, it will also serve as a decorative element and decorate your kitchen.
Determining a group of chairs for a small kitchen
When choosing a furniture set for a small kitchen, the choice of chairs plays an important role. They should not only be in harmony with the table and interior, but also be practical, light and reliable.
Kitchen metal small chairs
If we talk about wooden products, they must be treated with a special moisture-proofing agent.
Wooden kitchen sets
For modern small kitchen areas, chairs made of plastic or acrylic, which are complemented by a metal frame, are perfect.
Plastic transparent chairs
Transparent “invisible” products are also suitable for a small kitchen.
Folding chair with back for the kitchen
Chairs can be folding and have a soft, semi-soft and hard seat. The seats are made from high-quality raw materials with water-repellent properties.
How to choose wooden folding chairs with backrest for the kitchen
Material such as wood is still the most popular and desirable in every home.
How to choose wooden kitchen chairs with soft seats
Advantage:
- First of all, this is an environmentally friendly material that does not raise any doubts.
- It is wooden objects that become attributes of warmth and sincerity.
- Wooden chairs are especially relevant in a home where there are allergy sufferers.
Modern designers have developed the best models that surprise even the most capricious users. You can even find structures made from OSB, since the processing technology is at a high level.
Metal chairs for the kitchen: photo with description
Modern metal chairs are perfect for plastic and glass tables. Depending on the model, they can also be combined with a wooden tabletop.
Chairs with metal base
Metal can withstand much more loads compared to wood. The material does not absorb moisture and does not lose its properties. You can often find a combination of expensive wood with chromed metal.
A kitchen chair with a metal frame is increasingly becoming a beautiful interior detail. Shades of elegance, reliability and durability – these are the main characteristics of chairs with a metal frame.
Color range and material of manufacture
As a rule, this model consists of metal, chrome and leatherette. Suitable colors for upholstery include white, black and cream. An original solution would be metal with upholstery imitating leather or a checkered pattern.
Nice creamy color
The frame is often upholstered with a leather substitute; there are some models that are combined with a relief texture.
Shape of metal models
Chairs with a metal base are available with or without armrests and have the following seat shape:
- Elongated.
- Square.
- Oval.
The photo shows models with curved legs
The back can be hard or soft, lightweight or solid, and the legs are straight or curved.
Photo selection of models on a metal base for a small kitchen:
Great color combination
How to color match
Nice light palette combined with metal chairs
Furniture set in art decor style
Nice combination of metal and glass
Harmonious combination of plastic, glass and metal
High chairs
Modern manufacturers today offer several models for children:
- These are tall folding ones.
- Transformers.
- Boosters.
- Mounted models.
| Model | Photo | Description |
| Simple folding model | The most popular are high folding models; today you can find metal, plastic and wooden chairs. There are models with and without wheels and have height adjustment. Compact high chairs for small kitchens have a removable table and can be folded down to a compact size. | |
| Children's transformers | The advantage of such models is long-term use. In the unfolded position, this is a table with a chair, which is used for children 6 years of age. | |
| Mounted models | Wall chairs are compact models and are attached to durable tables using fasteners. | |
| Boosters for children | Boosters are distinguished by their compactness and are attached using belts to a chair with a hard seat. |
Kitchen chairs
People in large spaces choose chairs with "movable legs" on the sides, so they take up much more space than necessary.
- In a small space, you need to buy chairs with straight, vertical legs.
- The walking space around the chairs should be slightly more than 1 meter.
- Therefore, there should be free space behind it at a chair depth of 50 cm, at least 60 cm.
Designer's recommendations for choosing a table for the kitchen
When choosing a table for a small kitchen, give preference to a rectangular or square shape. Avoid round or oval tables that cannot be placed against the wall.
But if you need this shape, then remember that a table for two should have a diameter of 80 cm. Then for lunch you will need a space with a diameter of at least 245 cm.
- The next step to making sure your small kitchen still has room for lunch may be some extra cleaning.
- Everyone has useless things at home and never uses them. You need to get rid of these things, not mourn them.
A shelf with souvenirs not only takes up space, but also visually reduces a small space and will not look airy.
