Start with what the kitchenette must do
A tea point, staff break area and compact food-preparation space have different needs. List the tasks before sketching cabinetry: make drinks, wash cups, store lunch, reheat food or prepare a simple meal. That list keeps a small space from becoming overloaded.
We include kitchenette upgrades in our small renovations. The renovation order of work helps you connect the layout with services and fitting-out.
- How many people use it at once?
- Which appliances are essential?
- Is there a sink, and where are the existing services?
- What needs to be stored close to the worktop?
- How will rubbish and recycling be managed?
- Who cleans the space, and what access do they need?
Three small kitchenette layout ideas
A single-wall kitchenette
A straight run keeps the elements together and can suit a narrow room or office wall. Plan useful worktop space between activities, and check the swing of appliance and cupboard doors. A long run of equipment without a clear landing space is frustrating even if everything technically fits.
A compact corner
An L-shaped arrangement can create more worktop, but the corner needs a storage plan. Check that open doors do not block each other or the route through the room. Keep frequently used items where they can be reached without moving something else first.
A drinks and break station
For an office that needs hot drinks and lunch storage, focus on those tasks. Put cups, tea supplies and waste near where they are used, and leave a clear place to set down a mug or lunch container.
Choose appliances before finalising cabinetry
Use the actual product dimensions and installation information, including required clearances and ventilation. Allow for opening doors, access to controls and future servicing. A catalogue width does not describe every space the appliance needs.
Discuss water, drainage and power with the relevant trades before moving away from existing positions. We coordinate plumbing and electrical support for the agreed project. Avoid using extension leads as a substitute for a properly planned permanent arrangement.
If cooking equipment is included, establish the ventilation and installation requirements early. A more ambitious cooking setup can change a simple kitchenette brief into a larger project.
Storage ideas that earn their space
| Need | Planning idea |
|---|---|
| Frequently used cups and utensils | Keep them close to the task and within comfortable reach. |
| Cleaning supplies | Provide a defined storage place suited to the household or workplace. |
| Rubbish and recycling | Plan bins and removal access from the start. |
| Small appliances | Decide which stay out and which have an accessible storage space. |
| Shared office supplies | Separate communal stock from personal items to keep the worktop clear. |
Do a quick paper test: place every item from your task list on the proposed plan. If several items compete for the same small area, simplify before ordering cabinetry.
Finishes, flooring and the project brief
Choose surfaces around water, heat, cleaning and the expected use. Confirm the selected product’s suitability for the installation, including splash zones and edges. The worktop, wall finish and floor should be planned together.
Our vinyl vs laminate flooring comparison helps frame floor questions. For a workplace project, see office fit-outs in Wellington to organise access, approvals and disruption.
A useful brief includes the room plan, appliance list, retained services, storage needs and who supplies each item. Agree those details before the written quote so the small space has a manageable scope.
Your questions
What should a kitchenette include?
Include the equipment needed for its actual use, such as drinks, washing cups, lunch storage or simple food preparation. List the tasks first, then choose the appliances and storage.
Can a kitchenette work along one wall?
A single-wall layout can work well when appliance clearances, useful worktop space and access are planned together. Measure the room and the selected products before finalising the layout.
Turn the small-space idea into a clear brief
Send the available dimensions, a photo and the appliances you want to include. We can discuss a Wellington kitchenette upgrade within our small-renovation service.
Plan your kitchenette