Make the Most of Your Small Kitchen With a Metro Island
Having a tiny kitchen can be a constant frustration. Between the lack of storage, cramped countertops, and nowhere to sit down, it's easy to feel limited in what you can cook and bake. But it doesn't have to be that way. Adding a metro kitchen island cart can help maximize your miniature cooking space and make it more functional.
Metro islands provide extra storage and workspace on lockable wheels, ideal for small kitchens and apartments. In this post, we'll explore everything metro carts have to offer, from storage solutions to added seating. Read on to learn how a metro island can transform your tiny kitchen.
What Are Metro Kitchen Islands?
Metro kitchen islands, also called kitchen carts, are freestanding units that can provide additional storage, counter space, and seating on wheels. Their portable design makes them perfect for small, galley, or awkward kitchens that need more function.
Materials and Styles
Islands come in a wide variety of materials like wood, metal, granite, and marble. Style options range from modern and industrial to farmhouse and rustic. Their movable design means you can choose an island in any style to match your kitchen decor. Just ensure it's sized to fit your space.
Sizes and Configurations
Look for a narrow island around 2-3 feet wide if your kitchen is extra tight. Metro carts come in many configurations as well. Some feature open shelving for everyday dishes and appliances. Enclosed cabinets keep clutter hidden away. Drawers provide space for utensils within easy reach. Islands with a butcher block or stainless steel top offer extra countertop workspace. Some even have seating like stools that tuck underneath.
Benefits of Adding a Metro Kitchen Island
Gain Storage
Lack of storage is one of the biggest downsides of a small kitchen. Metro islands provide a solution with their mix of shelves, drawers, and cabinets. Store small appliances like your coffee maker or toaster oven to free up precious counter space. Designate shelves for frequently used items like spices and baking supplies. Use deep drawers for pots, pans, and cooking utensils. Enclosed cabinets keep less-used items concealed but still within reach.
Expand Your Workspace
Extra countertop square footage is a major bonus of a kitchen island. Use the surface for food prep tasks like chopping vegetables, rolling dough, and staging ingredients. The island provides a home for appliances like your stand mixer, so they don't occupy your regular counter. Some metro carts feature a built-in butcher block for extra chopping room. With wheels, you can reposition the island anywhere you need extra workspace.
Increase Seating
For small kitchens with no dining space, a metro island with seating can serve double duty. Models with stools or bench seating make the island a dining spot. When not in use for eating, the stools tuck neatly underneath the island. Place settings can be stored in drawers or cabinets built into the base. An island with seating adds function and flexibility.
Improve Workflow
One of the best perks of a mobile island is that it can adapt as you cook. Roll it near the fridge when prepping ingredients. Position it by the stove to stage cooked dishes or spices you need close at hand. Easily move it out of the way when floors need sweeping or heavy appliances pulled out for cleaning. Caster wheels give you the flexibility to configure your kitchen on the fly.
Enhance Style
With their mix of materials, colors, and designs, metro islands are as stylish as they are practical. The right island can add an aesthetic focal point and help elevate your kitchen decor. Small, awkwardly laid out kitchens often lack character. A metro cart offers the chance to inject personality. With wheels, you also don't have to commit to one permanent look. Change up your island style by season or mood!
Choosing the Perfect Metro Kitchen Island
With so many options, how do you choose the island that's right for your needs? Here are some tips for picking the best metro cart for your tiny kitchen:
Measure Your Space
Consider the size and layout of your current kitchen. Look for narrow islands with lower shelving if space is very tight. Be sure to allow enough clearance around the island for opening appliances and navigation when you position it. And don't forget to measure doorways to ensure your new island can wheel through.
Assess Storage Needs
How you plan to use the extra storage will help dictate the ideal island design. Lots of open shelving is great for often used items you want to access quickly. Enclosed cabinets conceal small appliances and rarely used cookware. Drawers are perfect for organizing utensils, cutlery, and other cooking tools. Figure out what you need handy versus out of sight.
Consider Intended Uses
Do you need more dining space or counter room for baking projects? Plan for extra countertop square footage and overhang space to accommodate stools. Or maybe you need a dedicated surface for a stand mixer and food processor. Make sure to get an island that fits your intended uses.
Match Style and Decor
Narrow down the ideal color, finish, and materials to complement your existing kitchen aesthetic. Warm wood tones like butcher block fit farmhouse or traditional spaces. Sleek stainless steel and metal work in modern designs. Just make sure to pick a durable material that fits your lifestyle.
Metro Island Shopping Tips
Ready to shop for your metro island? Keep these tips in mind:
- Opt for quality materials like solid wood over composites or laminates.
- Look for islands with locking casters that keep the unit stable when stationary.
- Removable stools take up less space when seating isn't needed.
- Check that there's enough overhead clearance for your ceiling height.
- Compare prices buying online direct versus in furniture stores.
Small kitchens can still be big on style and function with the right metro island. Rolling islands provide extra storage to corral cooking essentials and appliances. Your culinary workspace expands with added countertop and seating. With a metro cart, you can enjoy those spacious kitchen feels even in the tiniest spaces. Bring your small kitchen up to speed with a versatile island on wheels.