Tips for Maximizing a Studio Apartment Kitchen

You’ve scored a cool studio apartment! But now you’re wondering how to make a kitchen in a studio apartment functional. Not to worry—there are plenty of ways to maximize your space. Here’s what you’ll need for your studio apartment kitchen!

Table talk.

Wondering how to make a kitchen in a studio apartment? First things first, let’s talk about dining room tables. Find a table with built-in shelves to do double duty for dining and storage. Instead of a full dining set, try a table with stools that take up less space. Keep it uncluttered so you can use it as extra counter space while prepping meals (and even a WFH space during the day, too—it’s either the dinner table or your closet!). 

Island living.

Consider a compact rolling cart as a makeshift kitchen island for studio apartment needs. Not only does it provide additional counter space for all that chopping and mixing, but it also gives you more storage. Stack square storage bins on the bottom or use your rolling cart to house your microwave or toaster.

Maximize your walls. 

Instead of a bulky knife block taking up space or risking loose knives in a drawer with other utensils, opt for a magnetic knife strip for the wall. Hang a pegboard as a home for spatulas, wooden spoons, ladles, and other cooking utensils. 

Two for one shelves.

Install renter-friendly floating shelves with hooks on the bottom to hang mugs or a wine rack with grooves for wine glasses underneath. You may stick with the traditional use, but bottles of olive oil or vinegar fit just as nicely as bottles of wine—when coming up with studio apartment kitchen storage ideas you have to think outside the box.

Ceiling’s the limit. 

Keep thinking big—don’t limit yourself to cabinets and drawers. Hang pots and pans from a ceiling rack to save cabinet and counter space. This could be a catch-all for those cooking utensils, too.

Level up your storage.

When trying to save counter space, think up, not out. A tiered basket provides additional levels of storage without taking up prime real estate. Use it to hold fruits and vegetables that don’t belong in the fridge. Speaking of the fridge…if there’s room above the top, don’t let it go to waste. It’s a prime spot for storing bulky appliances. 

Make a room.

You’ve got the storage part down but now you’re wondering how to make a kitchen in a studio apartment separate from the rest of the place. It’s easier than you think to create an intimate space while you cook and dine. Parcel off your kitchen and dining area with a screen divider or curtains. When you want to open up the space, these temporary solutions are easy to move. If you prefer a more permanent solution, set up a free-standing bookcase to act as a wall. You can even hang photos or artwork on the back to complete the illusion. 

Give it a glow-up.

Give your kitchen a little bit of spice! Add temporary wallpaper as an accent wall or backsplash. Opt for a pretty accent rug or runner for the floor. Liven up the room by hanging a trailing plant or two. And remember, your storage solutions don’t have to be dull—there are plenty of options to make your kitchen a feast for the eyes.

Turn to CORT Furniture Outlet.

You may be limited on square footage, but the furnishing options for your studio apartment kitchen are endless! Visit CORT Furniture Outlet for new and gently used dining sets, storage furniture, room dividers, and more. CORT has everything you need to decorate your studio apartment on a budget. The way it works: you shop in-store or online and take home your furniture the day you purchase it! Unlike large furniture retailers, you won’t have to wait weeks — or months — for your furniture to come back into stock. Start browsing today!

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