Redesigning a Tiny Kitchen on a Limited Budget

the host takes on the challenge of redesigning a tiny kitchen on a limited budget. The kitchen belongs to Alex, a 25-year-old forensic engineer who recently purchased a small one-bedroom apartment. While he has been slowly renovating the space, the kitchen's small size of only 3.6 square meters has been a challenge. The host aims to transform the cluttered space using affordable off-the-shelf items.

To begin, the host models the existing space using the plan and dimensions provided by Alex. The cabinets are 90 millimeters shallower than the standard 600 millimeters, and there is a strange cabinet under the chamfered countertop. The host adds a slim standalone oven and refrigerator from SketchUp's 3D warehouse, which almost fit into the end of the room. The wall cabinets are shallow and arranged in an unattractive collection. The host identifies the corner unit as the main problem with the kitchen, as it is difficult to access due to the sink's placement. While the most practical solution would be to take space from the adjacent bedroom to create a galley kitchen, the host decides to work with the existing space. The kitchen can accommodate a single-line kitchen with four 600 millimeter wide units along the main wall.

The host selects a full-sized integrated fridge-freezer and oven from IKEA, along with a two-burner induction hob. A large sink and pull-out faucet are added, along with a countertop dishwasher that can be concealed behind cabinet doors. The host recommends a custom chamfered unit with shelving for the cabinet under the countertop. An integrated extractor fan is added to the wall cabinet, along with a storage unit for the drain rack. The host selects a grey linoleum floor and Ascoli spotlights by Astro for lighting. A rail is added along the splashback for hanging utensils and pots, and a magnetic strip is used for storing knives. A small worktop is added on heavy-duty angle braces on the opposite wall, along with cut-to-size mirrors to create an illusion of space.

The final design provides a full-sized kitchen with a fridge-freezer, oven, hob, dishwasher, and ample counter space. The mirrored wall creates an illusion of space, making the kitchen feel larger than it is. The host recommends the audiobook "The Paradox of Choice" by Barry Schwartz, which explores the tyranny of choice and the benefits of limitations. The audiobook can be accessed for free with a 30-day trial from Audible. Overall, the host successfully transforms the tiny kitchen into a functional and stylish space using affordable off-the-shelf items.