The kitchen is the heart of the home, so everything should be kept at their designated space to achieve a clutter-free and more functional space. The kitchen counter is one platform that provides ample space to keep daily-use items. What if the kitchen counter is extended? You can get additional space without much hassle. However, before beginning the extension work, you may get confused about a lot of things, like what material to use or how much it costs to add a kitchen counter. This blog will take you through several ways to extend your kitchen counter and other aspects, too.
How Much Does a Kitchen Counter Extension Cost?
The cost of extending a kitchen counter depends on several factors, such as:
- The type of material you select.
- The amount of extension you plan for.
- Whether you plan to replace the countertop.
- Labour and installation charges in your locality.
- The type of extension you opt for.
19 Kitchen Counter Extension Ideas
Here are 19 ways to extend your kitchen counter space and make your kitchen look more organized:
1. Set Up a New Counter
If your kitchen has enough space to accommodate a new counter, it can be an ideal choice. While setting up a new counter, choose a countertop material that is both adaptable and durable, like quartz. Quartz may cost a little more, but it can last for several years and make the investment worthwhile. Various patterns and colors are available in quartz kitchen countertops, so you can choose the one that goes well with the rest of your kitchen.
2. Make Use of Your Windowsill
If you do not have enough storage space for storing cookbooks, carafes, or canisters, consider utilising your windowsill space. Keeping small items on top of the countertop can disturb the smooth functioning of the daily kitchen work and make the deep cleaning work difficult.
Therefore, keeping a few items on the windowsill will make your kitchen countertop look clean and give you free space to work. For extra storage space, you can simply install a few shelves on the sides of the window sill.
3. Pull-Out Storage Drawers
If your countertop isn't providing you with ample space to work, pull-out storage drawers can be an excellent option to maximize your workspace. These are large drawers that give you extra workspace, often used for baking preparation or storing small appliances.
However, you'll need deeper cabinets and smooth glides; therefore, it's recommended to invest in quality runners. If set up properly, this feature will not only expand your workspace but also add to the kitchen's visual calmness.
4. Sink Covers With Adjustable Chopping Boards
If there's no linear counter space left in your kitchen, you can now go for vertical solutions. Sink covers and adjustable cutting boards can be ideal options as they do not need permanent modifications. Choose a wood cover that matches your windowsill, and you have a new spot set for staging your coffee or plates. This idea is affordable and multifunctional.
5. Fold Down Add-Ons
Fold-down add-ons are one of the smartest ways to extend your kitchen counter space. These add-ons are ideal for a breakfast nook. However, to support their weight when extended, you'll need strong wall mounts. The best thing about these add-ons is that they can be folded away when not in use.
6. Mobile Carts
Rolling kitchen carts add extra storage and counter space. You can keep your utensils, vegetables, forks, spoons, and small jars on the rolling cart. The best thing about a rolling cart is its flexibility. You can bring it near the stove while you're working in the kitchen, or keep it away when not in use.
7. A Separate Island Counter Extension
A standalone island extension is a budget-friendly option. You can either purchase it or craft it on your own as per your required dimensions. Separate island extensions come in various sizes, but the additional seating is usually not available in various sizes. It is easy to build and doesn't require much investment.
8. Movable Counter Wings
Foldable wings on all sides of the countertop are an excellent way to utilize your space while preparing a large meal for a party. You can fold them back when your work is done, or the party is over. Just ensure that the extension wings are strong enough to withstand heavy weight. If the wings are not capable of holding weight, they may collapse mid-dinner.
9. Make a Separate Space for the Microwave
Almost all of us have a microwave in our homes. Though microwaves are useful, it takes up a lot of counter space. To free up some counter space and utilize it for other things, consider moving your microwave to a separate shelf or on a rolling kitchen cart.
10. Make Use of Walls and Backsplash
If you want some extra space in your kitchen, consider utilising the kitchen walls and backsplash. Using the vertical space will help make your small kitchen more functional.
For instance, consider installing a rail that can be used for hanging pots and pans. This kitchen hack will help you utilize the space that would have been wasted.
11. New Workspace for Existing Counter
You can add a new work surface to the existing counter to extend it. This is a very practical option that can be easily done. You just need to build an extension of any type and a contrasting material on the top. Just make sure that the two counter tops are of the same height for a smooth transition.
12. Fold Down Leaf
A fold-down leaf is also a great idea to utilize your kitchen walls to free up counter space. A fold-down leaf can be raised for making breakfast or preparing a meal, and then folded back when not in use. This option is budget-friendly as well as stylish. But it can not be used for heavy chopping or leaning on, unless you install a detachable support.
13. Cantilevered Island Extension
If you have some extra floor space, a cantilevered island extension will help you utilize this space for meal prep, dining, and even storing kitchen stuff.
This idea may need higher investment and include some structural planning. However, it provides benefits for daily life and entertainment.
14. Radiator-Top Counter Space
If you have a radiator in your kitchen, you might have noticed that the space above the radiator remains unused. The good thing is that you can make this space functional by adding a heat-resistant counter panel. Just ensure to leave some space for air movement and use heat-safe materials.
15. Cabinet for Storing Cutting Boards
If you have more than one cutting board, it might be difficult to store them on the countertop, and they may take up a lot of counter space. Thus, it's ideal to keep the cutting boards in a separate cabinet or in a basket. Consider keeping them away from the countertop, as it aids in kitchen counter extension.
16. Stovetop as Functional Space
You can extend your kitchen counter by utilizing the stovetop covers as storage or a prep area. Just make sure that the stove is completely off. Cover the stove with a cutting board according to the size you need. This idea makes your stovetop multifunctional and saves your counter space.
17. Set Up Paper Towel Holder
This is one of the easiest ways to get some free counter space. Paper towels do not take much counter space, but keeping them above the countertop makes it easy to reach and leave some free space, though insignificant. Consider mounting the paper towels on a hanger under the shelves or cabinets.
18. Two-Tier Extension
You can also try a two-tier extension to get the most out of your kitchen space. One for prepping and the other for dining. This two-tier extension looks stylish as well as functional. This extension will look best if you've open layouts.
19. Wooden Slide Boards
To instantly get some free counter space, bring in big wooden boards that can slide over your sink or stove. You can easily get a wooden slide board on a very low budget. However, thin wooden slides should not be considered for heavy chopping. For durability or to perform heavy work, opt for a thick wooden slide.
Conclusion
Lastly, you do not have to invest a lot or make heavy structural changes to get an ample amount of workspace in the kitchen. From movable carts to stovetop covers, there are so many easy ways you can use to extend your kitchen counter and get ample space to work.
