Interior functionality

Judging by Hollywood films, the bar counter is almost required element every American cuisine. However, it is not surprising - from the saloons of Dixieland it came into modern life, of course, having undergone some changes. In Russia, such an interior solution is also becoming very popular.

Many people believe that a bar counter certainly requires large area, and do not risk changing their home. But in vain! With the right design, even in a small kitchen, saving square meters, it will increase the functionality of the room, while simultaneously creating an original, relaxed atmosphere. In a small isolated kitchen, it can be used instead of a table; in the case of a studio apartment, a bar counter will effectively zone the space.

Interior design options

There are no unconditional requirements for a bar counter; it is just a table top on a support, most often 110-115 cm high. It can be mounted on consoles or lie on a cabinet; can be combined with a table or with work surface; have a rectangular or streamlined shape - all this gives a lot of opportunities to make your kitchen unique.

In the classic presentation, a bar table separates the food preparation area from the dining area. It doesn’t matter whether the tabletop is attached perpendicular to the work surface kitchen set, parallel or standing separately as an island - the visual effect is created the same.

This arrangement is ideal for a studio: a conditional line expands the space, while simultaneously creating clear boundaries between the kitchen and living room. The main task here is to maintain the unity of style throughout the apartment.

It is unlikely that a high counter will be comfortable for small children and elderly people. Therefore, if the area allows, you can connect it with a table. In such cases, it is logical to place the table surface inside the kitchen and the bar area outside.

For a “Khrushchev” apartment, where every centimeter is precious and the kitchens are mostly “corner”, the bar counter can be both a dining and work surface.

Unfortunately, there are apartments with such a small kitchen that the most modest set can barely fit in it. In this case, great idea will combine the bar counter and the window sill. You will see how pleasant it is to watch other people’s moments of life through a window and at the same time be fenced off from what is happening with glass. It’s not for nothing that almost all coffee shops in the world use this trick.

In a long rectangular kitchen, narrow wooden countertops along the wall look elegant. By organically selecting lighting and accessories, you can create the atmosphere of your own cozy cafe.

Another way to save space is folding or retractable designs. You don't have to pick them up and put them away every time, but it's nice to know that you have the option.

Whether your bar counter is an independent element or a monumental part of the set, it is very important to correctly fit it into common decision kitchen ensemble. This doesn't mean you have to give up bright colors. Red, light green, orange-black - any rainbow whim can be fulfilled if you carefully think through the details.

Structural elements

Whatever option you choose, your main desire is probably to make the kitchen space as free as possible for passage, without compromising its functionality.

For a two-level bar counter, which is mounted on a metal console, it is reasonable to place special stands for wine glasses, shelves for fruit or a minibar on the top of the rod. And high chairs slide easily under the counter.

Many zealous housewives choose a countertop on a cabinet in which to store kitchen utensils. You can also use a multi-tier design if it fits into the overall set.

It’s easy to see that the last two examples are convenient for housekeeping, but are not conducive to long gatherings. To prevent your knees from resting against the wall, try a cabinet with wheels. You can always roll it out at the right time.

There is also a transforming stand, a kind of remake of the secretary. The folding part turns into a dining table, and the inner one serves as a cupboard, a bar, or whatever you want.

Light plays an important role in our lives. We love sunny mornings because they charge us with positivity and set us up for work. During the day, it’s nice to hide in a little shade to take a break and look at the bright world from afar, before getting back to business. In the evening we want more romance, half-shades, half-tones. That’s why it’s so important to think about kitchen lighting. This could be traditional counter lighting with LED strips, spotlights, romantic sconces, or a series of small chandeliers.

Beware of common mistakes when planning your kitchen interior. Everything should be in moderation. Avoid overloading structures, too large quantities bends or excessively filling the space with additional shelves and cabinets. Make sure the materials match the style and color scheme. They may not be combined, but this must be justified.

Bold design option can become the highlight of not only the kitchen, but your entire apartment. However, remember: for a small kitchen, practicality should come first.

DIY materials and manufacturing method

The materials here are the same as for other furniture: glass, chipboard, plasterboard, wood. For consoles, it is better to take chrome-plated brass pipes or polished stainless steel pipes. Don’t go cheap: plastic or plastic-coated steel pipes easily absorb odors and dirt, and cleaning active means they are not allowed, so such supports will quickly lose their attractive appearance.

In some catalogs you will see photographs where the supporting frame of the rack is made entirely of brick or natural stone. Most likely, this is a good imitation. The fact is that the weight load on the floor should not exceed 250 kg/sq.m. All buildings above can only be built with the permission of certain authorities for the redevelopment of apartments. Light rocks (slate, limestone, shell rock) are unlikely to be suitable for construction, as they get dirty. The only option to avoid overload on the floor, if you really want natural material, is to connect the console bar counter to brick support in one brick.

In order not to spoil the overall impression with a too obvious fake, do not use basement siding and other plastic imitation stones. They give themselves away to the touch and are also fastidious in cleaning.

So, in this article we will show the best options for repairing and remodeling a kitchen in Khrushchev, tips on design, decor and many photos on the topic.

Peculiarities

Kitchens built at that time have a couple of very significant disadvantages, and these are:

• Very modest area (only 5-6 squares)
• Low ceiling (2.2 meters)
• The presence of a gas water heater (we will describe why this is a minus below)

But, in contrast to these disadvantages, there are also significant advantages in comparison with block houses and this:

• Doesn't happen in Khrushchev buildings load-bearing walls(that is, you can destroy and break at least everything)
• It is very easy to expand the area with adjoining rooms, and this applies not only to the living room

When you see the photos presented in the corresponding blocks, you will understand that Khrushchev is not a death sentence! True, with the right approach it is quite possible to do very stylish design premises, and the kitchen will look miniature, but not cheap.

What are the most popular repair options?

Few of the owners of Khrushchev-era apartments leave the layout in its original form. A lot of ways to modernize such a room have already been tested, therefore, in this article we will not open America to you.

Just let us remind you of the most successful solutions and provide clear examples.

In short, the most the best option in this case - a small redevelopment, with displacement of the walls. Otherwise, however, there is practically nowhere to turn around and there can be no talk of any originality.

Therefore, we will describe to you the best kitchen redevelopment in Khrushchev, and also tell you about the furniture modules that are best suited in this case.

What is the best way to equip a kitchen where there is a gas water heater?

Gas water heaters in Khrushchev-era buildings are not always installed in the kitchen. Sometimes they are in the bathroom, which on the one hand is very convenient. Why is that? But because you have no safety restrictions and you can safely demolish the partition separating the kitchen from the living room.

In other cases, if the speaker is still in the kitchen, you should not choose this particular type of redevelopment. It would be much more reasonable to expand the room by adding a storage room adjacent to the kitchen, for example, since there should be a door in any case.

No, of course, you can not give a damn about the laws, but one fine day there is a risk that you will deeply regret it. For example, when selling an apartment, you will be required to provide a document that confirms the legality of the redevelopment. And where will you get it from if the gas workers do not agree with this state of affairs?

Yes, you can dodge and somehow give a bribe. But do you need it? Moreover, honestly, it’s not such a chic option.

This is good in one case: if you live alone in an apartment. And when there are two of you, or even more, such a layout will add inconvenience. We're not even talking about the smell that will spread throughout the apartment.

The main thing here is the discomfort of family members visiting the kitchen while someone is sleeping in the living room. And for small Khrushchev buildings this is a quite common situation. The hall usually performs many functions, including replacing the bedroom.

So, if you have a speaker in the kitchen, start from this key point.

In the photo below you can see options for renovating a kitchen in Khrushchev, specifically with a column. Doesn't it look great? And you can’t say that the area is very small.

Which color scheme is best for small spaces?

We think you already understand that the best option is a light color scheme. But, of course, you want something bright, interesting... What can we offer you?

The most important thing here is the color of the walls. They are the ones who “make” the visual volume. That is, if you paint the walls white, you definitely won’t go wrong.

At the same time, be very careful with the work surface. You shouldn’t choose something very colorful and bright, because the walls are white. Due to the fact that the area is small, this small segment, visually, will occupy a significant part of the room.

Then, the color of the floor is very important. If you make it dark, then even if there are light walls it will “narrow” the room. Therefore, try to make the floor in light colors.

What materials to choose?

Furniture with monograms and carvings is not for such a room! Forms should be as simple and straightforward as possible.

Don’t even look in the direction of marble, natural onyx and other things that “play” great only in large areas in a classical style interior.

Curtains should also not be pompous, otherwise it will all look ridiculous, cramped and out of place.

It’s best to stick with something like “minimalism” or, if you want something more homely, a “Scandinavian” style. There, the priority is wood of natural colors and white tones. For Khrushchev this is just the thing.

As for household appliances: match it to the tone. In this case, it is not so striking and, as it were, visually, does not “eat up” the space. And what’s interesting here is what exactly white appliances looks more bulky.

Give preference to either a silver color or a completely dark one. It is very important that there is no “inconsistency”. For example, next to a white refrigerator, a silver stove looks very untidy.

Also, one cannot fail to mention the ceilings. Since they are extremely low in Khrushchev-era buildings, tensioners come in handy here glossy ceilings. Moreover, you should also choose them in white. Any bright ceiling, even if it has reflective properties, makes the room smaller.

Due to the fact that the room will be visible in them, the ceiling will seem much higher, and, as a result, the room itself will be more spacious. Taking care of them is a pleasure, so we confidently recommend this option.

Well, now, let's look at specific options and ideas.

Kitchen-living room

Main article:. To implement such an idea, you just need to tear down the wall. Making a similar project in a Khrushchev-era building is not difficult, since there is no concrete.

After there is no partition left, you need to think about what you will use to decorate the walls and floor.

In general, according to the laws of the genre, it is necessary to make floors of different structures or colors, thereby setting the line. But, in the case of a very modest cubic capacity, it is better to lay exactly the same floor in the living room and kitchen.

The same goes for the ceiling. You don't need any tiers, boxes or arches. It is best if the kitchen and living room are a completely unified ensemble.

Curtains, also, should be the same, not mismatched. Only in this case will the interior look truly harmonious.

U-shaped kitchens with a bar counter in Khrushchev

That's pretty interesting solution for Khrushchev. Furniture that stands in a U-shape provides great convenience in terms of comfort, although it takes up as many as three walls!

This would be extremely unwise if you had a separate kitchen with a door. But, if you have a kitchen-living room, then the problem disappears by itself.

You can create a dining area right in the living room by installing a table with chairs there, or you can make a bar counter that stands in place of the wall.

In respect of appearance– this is decent and nice, but as for convenience, you need to think carefully about it.

After all, the bar counter is a place for a quick snack. You definitely won’t be able to accommodate guests there, just as you won’t be able to dine together with the whole family. And, if you make a bar counter, then in most cases you will have to give up a full-fledged table.

It is best to place it between the kitchen and living room, by the window, in the place where there was a wall. But you can’t put it there anymore, since there will be a bar counter there.

Enlarging the kitchen in Khrushchev at the expense of the bathroom

Surely, many will be surprised by this option, since the bathtubs in Khrushchev-era buildings are already so tiny that it’s hard to imagine what can be cut down there.

But people found a rather interesting solution: replace the bathtub itself with a shower stall and “sink” the refrigerator into the resulting square. Of course, to do this you need to knock out part of the wall from the kitchen side.

In principle, the idea is quite good if you under no circumstances use the bathroom and do not need it. For example, there are overweight people for whom cabins are much more comfortable.

But, if you still use it, it is better not to expand the area by depriving yourself of such benefits. No shower will warm you up after frost as well as hot bath. And in terms of functionality, it is very necessary: ​​to wash something, wash it...

Therefore, there is no need to get excited. Just take note of this method.

In conclusion, I would like to say: go for it, everything is in your hands! Try to stick to these basic rules and everything will work out for you.

Visual transformation of the interior alone is sometimes not enough, so many resort to redevelopment, which can significantly improve living conditions and implement bold ideas. Kitchen studio in Khrushchev - perfect option for people who value comfort and functionality and follow the latest fashion trends.

An old “Khrushchev” can be replaced with a cozy nest by converting it into a stylish and comfortable kitchen-studio

Features of combining kitchen and living room

Khrushchevka is a 4–5-story building from 1958–1985. buildings with small apartments often inconvenient layout: cramped kitchen, narrow corridor, adjoining rooms. To optimize space, residents began to resort to combining the kitchen and living room. On the one hand, this method of expansion is very beneficial, since it allows you to combine the working, dining and guest areas into one room without damaging each of them. On the other hand, for big family This option presents certain difficulties, depriving household members of personal space. In addition, any redevelopment requires official permission, which entails financial costs.

But a one-room Khrushchev apartment has a unique opportunity to become luxury housing, at least in the interior. A small studio kitchen looks not only cute and cozy, but very modern and stylish. Here you have the opportunity to realize your creative potential and create a unique kitchen-studio design that will be the envy of residents of new buildings.

Organization of space

Before starting the renovation, you should develop a project taking into account all the features of the room, so that not a single centimeter of the studio kitchen is left unattended. For this you can use computer program– an online designer that allows you to see the future interior in 3D mode. You can also depict the design of a kitchen studio schematically on a piece of paper.

First of all, at the family council it is necessary to decide which zone of the studio to focus on: work or guest. This will help determine the boundaries of each of them and select the most suitable layout for the Khrushchev.

Let's consider the main options for arranging furniture in a kitchen studio.

• L-shaped. It involves placing the set along two perpendicular walls of the kitchen. Ergonomic use of space is achieved through compact multifunctional furniture and visual integration of the stove, sink and refrigerator. Any housewife will feel very comfortable in such a kitchen, and the cooking process will not take much time.
• Linear arrangement is a set that is located along one wall of the kitchen, and the rest of the space is in the dining room or recreation area. This layout is suitable for a small studio in a Khrushchev-era building, in which 1-2 people live, or the owners do not really like to cook.
• A peninsula is a multifunctional, free-standing unit in the kitchen, whose end rests against the wall. It is usually located opposite a linear or L-shaped set and serves simultaneously as a dining table, work surface, and sometimes a bar counter.
• The island differs from the peninsula in that it stands in the middle of the studio space, separate from the walls and furniture. For a studio in Khrushchev, the photo, design and layout of which can be viewed on the website, is more suitable compact version islands - bar counter with two seats.

Zoning methods

It is important to separate the kitchen and living room in such a way that integrity and harmony are maintained in the studio interior. Even if each zone is made in a certain style, there should be common features and details. Let's consider the main methods of zoning.

Subject

• False partition. This is a plasterboard structure that partially divides the room. It happens different shapes and configurations (with waves, beveled corners, etc.). An aquarium with exotic fish in the niche of the partition looks very impressive.
• Sliding structures. They allow, if necessary, to completely isolate the kitchen from the living room in a Khrushchev-era building. Thanks to the roller mechanism or accordion doors, the designs take up little space, but provide privacy.
• Furniture. The sofa is usually placed in the middle of the room on the border of two studio zones. If you like similar design studio kitchens, pay attention to the quality of the upholstery. The material should be easy to clean so that food stains disappear during wet cleaning.
• Bar counter. This is a stylish piece of furniture, an opportunity to divide the space. It is used as dining table, as a place for snacks and tea.

Visual

• The kitchen and relaxation area in the studio can be visually divided different colors. However, they must be present in both premises of the Khrushchev building. For example, it is advisable to combine the set with furniture in the living room: a coffee table, a wall.
• Lighting is a very popular zoning option that helps save on energy. Spot lighting is appropriate in the working part of the studio, and floor lamps, sconces, and a chandelier in the guest part.
• Wall and ceiling decoration is also recommended when distinguishing the kitchen and living room. Looks organic suspended ceiling in one zone, and the suspended structure in another. The walls in the hall can be covered with wallpaper and covered with decorative textured plaster, which flows into the working part of the room.

Stylistic decisions

The spacious room gives you the opportunity to experiment with styles. For example, classic goes well with modern, and rococo goes well with Provence. Or you can choose one specific style, making the design holistic and harmonious.

Country

This style involves the use natural materials, an abundance of textiles, handmade decorative items, decorative pillows, houseplants, covers on chairs. The color range varies from white to dark brown.

Modern

This design will appeal to conflict-free and calm people. Its main features are smooth lines, rounded shapes, combination artificial materials with natural ones. Up to three colors can be used in the interior.

High tech

Characteristic features: clear geometric shapes, simplicity and minimalism in everything, the predominance of artificial materials, as well as almost complete absence decor.

A cozy kitchen-studio in Khrushchev is the dream of any family, an opportunity to gather around the same table with many friends and family members. Tips and recommendations from designers will help you create an interior in a small Khrushchev that will not leave anyone indifferent.

Photo: studio kitchens in Khrushchev-era buildings

The kitchen in Khrushchev has two main drawbacks - a small area (from 5 to 7.5 sq. m) and low ceilings (2.5 - 2.7 m). And it is often gasified, that is, it has pipes and/or geyser, which greatly spoil the interior. But we also have good news:

• Firstly, the kitchens in most Khrushchev houses did not have load-bearing partitions, which means they can be easily rebuilt.
• Secondly, the problem of small kitchens is so widespread that furniture manufacturers have long adapted to it, and designers have developed a lot of ideas and effective solutions How to make a kitchenette cozy and functional.

Today we will talk about 13 ways to get the most out of a modest “Khrushchev” kitchen and present 90 photos real interiors for your inspiration.

13 solutions for arranging a kitchen in Khrushchev

Solution 1. Combining the kitchen with the living room

It’s not for nothing that this redevelopment option is so popular among owners of Khrushchev-era apartments, because it is simple, super-effective and almost always allowed for non-gas kitchens. Of course, you won’t find extra meters out of nowhere, but at least you can move the dining table into the living room, thereby freeing up space for the work area, and visually the kitchen will seem much more spacious. In addition, the combined premises are good because they create excellent conditions for family communication. So, for example, all family members can be close to each other while doing their own thing, and mothers get the opportunity to cook while keeping an eye on their children. It’s even easier and more fun to organize home holidays and parties in the kitchen-living room.

An example of combining a kitchen and a living room in a one-room Khrushchev house

• However, there are also disadvantages - due to the lack of a partition, culinary odors will penetrate from the kitchen into the living room and permeate all the textiles in the room. The same applies to “kitchen” noises, say, from water released, an extractor hood, a blender, a kettle, etc. Taking a nap while lying on the couch while someone is actively cooking in the kitchen, or making noise while getting ready for work while everyone is sleeping, is unlikely to work . If these disadvantages of a combined kitchen-living room are significant for you, think about Solution No. 2 - moving the partition.

Before breaking down the walls, you will have to go to the BTI, order a redevelopment project and approve it (even if you are sure that the wall is not load-bearing).

Solution 2. Enlarging the kitchen at the expense of adjacent rooms

If a combined kitchen-living room does not fit into your lifestyle, or if your kitchen is gasified, then you can increase its area through the adjacent rooms - the living room, pantry or hallway. Thus, the kitchen will become a little larger, but will remain isolated, which, to be honest, is much more convenient for living. Here are some ideas:

• Most often, the kitchen is enlarged at the expense of the living room by moving the partition. Below is an example plan two-room apartment in Khrushchev before and after renovation.

• If you combine a bathroom with a toilet, replace the bath with a shower, and move the partition, you will be able to expand the kitchen or create a niche for the refrigerator. Such a project is not often legalized, but for those who live on the ground floor, the chances are quite high. The photo below shows an example of a kitchen in a Khrushchev-era building, enlarged to include a bathroom, toilet and living room.

And this is what the bathroom looks like after remodeling

Solution 3: Sliding doors or open doorway

Hinged doors in a kitchenette take up a lot of usable space and generally clutter the interior. You can at least rearrange the hinges so that the door opens at the same time. outside, and, as a maximum, replace the swing door with a folding or sliding one, as in the kitchen interior in the photo below.

If the kitchen is not gasified, you can remove the door altogether, leaving the opening open and, perhaps, convert it into a beautiful arch, as shown in the next photo.

And one more piece of advice. When renovating a kitchen in a Khrushchev-era building, do not miss the opportunity to move the opening and/or narrow it a little (up to 80-70 cm). Even a couple of tens of free centimeters of the wall often play a big role.

Solution 4: Converting a window sill into a countertop

The window sill is that hidden reserve, by using which you can save space and make the kitchen more functional. But to do this, it needs to be altered a little, namely, built into a kitchen set or turned into a bar counter/table.

• By integrating a window sill into a U-shaped and corner kitchen unit, you can use it as a cutting table, while hiding the radiator and creating additional storage space. True, to do this, during the repair process you will have to slightly raise the window in order to bring the window sill to the level of the floor cabinets.

• Converting a window sill into a bar counter or dining table most often does not require raising the window; you just need to replace the window sill tabletop with a larger tabletop and install one or two supports under it (if you are making a full-fledged table).

When remodeling a window sill, make sure that warm air from the radiator it reached the window. To do this, you need to make ventilation holes in the new countertop and decorate them with a decorative grille. If this is neglected, most likely the window will begin to fog up, which can lead to damage to the finish and the development of fungus and mold.

Solution 5. Bet on modern minimalism or simplified classics

The choice of interior style is a matter of taste, but small rooms are still more advantageous and easier to decorate in a modern way. For example, in Scandinavian or Japanese style, as well as in minimalism, hi-tech or eco style.

Below in the photo you can see an example of a kitchen design in a Khrushchev-era building, decorated in Scandinavian style.

However, lovers of classics and ethnic music should not give up their preferences. You just need to simplify the chosen style a little, for example, by using a minimum of decor, relying on light shades and reflective materials.

And here is an example of a kitchen design in a Khrushchev-era building, decorated in a lighter version of the ethnic style.

Solution 6. Light walls and furniture

In the perception of space, much depends on the color of the walls and large furniture. A sure-fire way to enlarge a Khrushchev-era mini-kitchen is to decorate most of the interior in white tones.

• If your kitchen lacks natural light or is overcrowded with furniture, opt for monochrome: paint the walls white, choose white furniture, dining table and even curtains on the windows. This way, all the boundaries of space will be erased, and the kitchen will seem airy, even if it is very crowded. Don’t worry about the difficulty of maintenance, because in fact, light surfaces are even more practical than dark ones (with the exception of textiles) and visually make the environment more tidy. And in order to avoid the feeling of hospital sterility, you only need to combine different shades white and combine spectacular textures and materials.

White kitchen in Khrushchev-studio

By the way, when there is no way to hide pipes and a water heater, white facades and walls, including the apron, are a great help. After all, against such a background, engineering elements will simply not be noticeable.

• If you want to add color to your interior, combine white with one or two complementary shades. Too bright or dark colors use only as accents, otherwise the small kitchen will only get smaller.

• By the way, dark colors They can also visually enlarge the kitchen. To do this, you need to decorate vertical surfaces with them, for example, an apron, furniture facades, a door or part of a wall, and decorate everything else with a light shade. As a result, the dark area will go deeper, making the space more voluminous.
• If desired White color can be replaced with light gray, beige, blue-gray, pale green, pale yellow or cream.

Solution 7: Optical illusion finishing

To visually expand the walls, the floor should be laid diagonally or, if the kitchen is narrow, across it. The most advantageous pattern for laying a wooden floor is a herringbone pattern or a running pattern. It is important that the floorboards are not too wide and long, as they tend to “compress” the space. The color of the floor can be light or medium-saturated - such coverings are easier to maintain and increase the area. Similar principles work with wall decoration:

• A typical problem for Khrushchev low ceilings(2.5-2.6 m high) can be solved by gluing wallpaper with a thin vertical stripe or a diamond pattern on one or two walls.

• If the kitchen is narrow, but has ceilings of at least 2.7 m, do exactly the opposite and paint one of the “end” walls with horizontal stripes to visually expand the room.
• Photo wallpaper with perspective will convincingly deceive the eye and deprive the kitchen of the feeling of crampedness. The main thing is to decorate most of the interior minimalistically and in neutral colors.

• Often designers use mirror trick, covering an apron, part of a wall in the dining area or one of the walls completely. This technique works especially well if the window is reflected in the mirror, increasing the light in the kitchen. Of course, mirrors require frequent cleaning, so if you cook often, ditch the mirrored backsplash idea and place the mirror away from the stove and sink.

The larger the mirror surface, the larger and lighter the kitchen appears

• Wallpaper with a large and bright pattern should be used to decorate only one wall or a small section of the wall.

Solution 8. Corner or single-row set to the ceiling

In a small kitchen in a Khrushchev-era building, a corner or single-row set is optimal.

• A corner set is less compact than a single-row set, but it uses two walls and a corner and allows you to organize more storage spaces and work surfaces. In addition, it is more convenient to cook with this layout, because three working points (sink, refrigerator and stove) are arranged in a triangular pattern. At the same time, there is enough space in the kitchen for a dining area.

• A single-row set is the most compact, therefore it is recommended if the kitchen is very small (4-6 sq. m) or when the priority is the capacity of the dining room rather than the working area.

However, if you move the dining room into the attached living room, there will be enough space for a U-shaped or double-row set. The main thing in these layouts is a free passage between furniture with a width of at least 90 cm, and preferably 100-120 cm.

• The U-shaped set fits well into square rooms. And although it is quite bulky, the kitchen turns out to be very convenient, because everything a cook needs is literally at hand. In a small kitchen in a Khrushchev building, a U-shaped set can be built using a window sill. In the next photo slider you can see the interior of a kitchen with a similar layout and a dining area in the living room.

• A double-row set is more suitable for narrow and elongated kitchens, it can also be very convenient (subject to a passage of 100-120 cm) and combined with a window sill.

No matter how you arrange your headset, we recommend that you include several non-standard improvements in it:

• It is better to make the cabinet near the aisle narrower and beveled, then moving around the kitchen will become much more convenient.

• To use the potential of a small kitchen 100%, you should build the unit up to the ceiling, hide the air duct in an additional tier and arrange cabinets for things that you use only occasionally.
• You can build a couple of drawers into the base and put all kinds of rolling pins, baking tins, baking sheets and other kitchen items in them.

• Another argument in favor of purchasing a custom-made kitchen is the ability to hide a gas water heater behind the facade. Such a “cabinet” should have neither a bottom nor a top, and a distance of at least 3 cm must be maintained from the speaker body to the cabinet walls. The photo below shows a clear, although not entirely correct, example of integrating a boiler into a cabinet.

Solution 9. Laconic facades

Do you want to achieve maximum lightness and airiness of the interior? Then choose solid fronts without any decor, panels, prints and maybe even without handles. However, gloss or glass inserts will not be superfluous, because they reflect light and visually lighten bulky furniture.

Solution 10. Mini equipment

In the struggle for precious centimeters, mini-format equipment will help out, and perhaps even without sacrificing functionality.

• A dishwasher with a width of 45 cm fully meets the needs of a family of 3-4 people. If 1-2 people live in an apartment, then an even smaller model is suitable - 35-40 cm wide.

• The 55 cm wide refrigerator is quite roomy, as it compensates for the narrowness of the chamber with its height.
• The oven can also be narrow (45 cm).
• A three-burner stove will handle the needs of a standard family, while a two-burner stove will suit a couple or one person. By the way, according to the old SNiP rules, in a Khrushchev-era kitchen the stove should be of a mini format - with no more than three burners.

In addition to mini-appliances, it is worth equipping your mini-kitchen with multifunctional appliances. For example, when choosing a food processor, give preference to a model that squeezes juice and chops meat, and you should choose an oven with a microwave function.

It is advisable to build in all appliances - from the microwave to the refrigerator. This will make your small kitchen look orderly and uncluttered.

Solution 11. Compact and functional dining group

Only from compact and functional furniture can you create a dining group for a small kitchen, otherwise it simply won’t fit.

• For 1-2 people it will not be a problem to choose a small one sliding/folding table, which can easily be increased in case of receiving guests.

• For those who lead a mobile lifestyle, a bar counter or a folding wall table is suitable.

Table with folding wings that double the number of seats

• In the combined kitchen-living room you can place the same bar counter, which will not only become a place for meals, but also divide the space into zones.





• More traditional version – round or oval table, which fits into the living room better than a rectangular or square table.



• You can also place a transformable coffee table in the living room, which in an instant turns into a spacious table for 4-6 people.
• Chairs should be selected small and lightweight. It would be good if they were foldable or at least stackable on top of each other.



• We also strongly recommend taking a closer look at polycarbonate invisible chairs. They are inexpensive, fit into any interior, are very practical, and most importantly, do not clutter up tight spaces.




Solution 12. Several small lamps instead of one chandelier

Even the most cramped and crowded kitchen will seem more spacious and comfortable if you create the right lighting in it. And vice versa, no matter how well the design of a kitchen in a Khrushchev-era building is planned, poor light will greatly spoil its perception.

• So, for example, the usual central lighting with one chandelier will create unnecessary shadows and “shrink” a small kitchen even more.

What to do? Firstly, make sure that during the day nothing interferes with the penetration of natural light - neither things on the windowsill, nor tulle, nor curtains, nor furniture. Secondly, instead of one chandelier or in addition to it, install several spotlights around the perimeter of the ceiling or wall sconces in several places in the kitchen. Thirdly, highlight the dining area with light by hanging a chandelier directly above the table or installing sconces on the wall near the table. Thanks to this technique, kitchen gatherings will become more pleasant and the interior will become more modern. And of course, don’t forget about illuminating the work area using furniture lighting.



An example of proper lighting for a very small kitchen in Khrushchev

Solution 13. Short curtains

If the kitchen faces north and there is a catastrophic lack of daylight, it is highly advisable to leave the window without curtains.



In all other cases, the windows of a small kitchen should be decorated with light and short curtains with minimal gathering. For example, it could be Roman or roller blinds, cafe curtains, vertical or horizontal blinds or ordinary curtains that slightly cover the window sill.

It is interesting and pleasant to furnish your apartment. Modern man strives to keep up with fashion. Therefore, studio apartments have become very popular. They are a spacious room without division into rooms. Kitchen studio is a Western trend. Due to their convenience and functionality, such interiors are in demand. In addition, a properly designed studio kitchen can expand the space. It allows you to decorate your apartment in the same style.

Advantages of a studio kitchen

What place is the most functional and important in any apartment or house? Of course, the kitchen! After all, food is not only prepared here and joint dinners are held. This is the room where guests are received and evening gatherings are held. Unfortunately, many people are faced with rather modest kitchen sizes. It simply cannot accommodate the required number of guests. Therefore, there is a need to radically resolve this issue - to carry out redevelopment.

Undoubtedly, the design of a kitchen studio has many advantages. The most important of them:

• the opportunity to get a large space;
• The room becomes bright due to two windows;
• there are many options for furniture placement;
• many design solutions can be implemented;
• While preparing food, the housewife gets the opportunity to communicate with guests and household members.

You will feel harmony and comfort if the design of the studio kitchen in the apartment is properly planned. Photos allow you to see the successful solutions of specialists.

However, such redevelopment also has some disadvantages. The main one is the spread of odors. A high-quality and powerful hood allows you to get rid of this disadvantage.

Space zoning

After combining the rooms, it becomes necessary to focus on the kitchen itself. Various methods can be used for zoning: arched structures, contrasting colors, different floor heights.

An excellent solution is to separate functional areas with a bar counter. Such an interior element will organically delimit the space. But when choosing this detail, you must strive to make the design of a studio kitchen with a bar counter look natural and harmonious. Therefore, it is necessary to take into account all kitchen furniture.

When zoning space, you can use additional methods that will emphasize the demarcation of the bar counter:

• different floor levels;
• use of columns, arches;
• various floor and wall coverings;
• color solutions;
• separation with indoor flowers;
• use of various accessories (aquarium, fireplace);
• use of large modular furniture;
• separation by lighting.

Versatile functionality

Initially, the interior bar counter served only one purpose. She separated the bartender-owner from the guests. It was a convenient device for mixing cocktails and serving them to people. But gradually the functionality of bar counters began to expand. After all, these interior elements are almost always connected to the kitchen. It is very convenient to have a snack during the day at the bar counter or drink a cup of coffee in the morning.

Specialists, when planning the design of a kitchen studio, give such a piece of furniture various functionality.

The bar counter can play a role:

1. Dining table. This solution is ideal for a small family (2 people). It allows you not to clutter up the free space with a table.
2. Work area. If the kitchen space is small, an oven, hob, and sink are installed in the counter. This modernization allows not only to eat food, but also to prepare food on the counter.
3. Addition to the table. An organically integrated bar counter allows you to create a place where you can, if necessary, drink a cup of coffee or place sweet dishes.

Varieties of bar counter

To create a comfortable and cozy design kitchen studio, it is necessary to take into account many nuances. The bar counter should not only be functional, but also fit harmoniously into the overall interior.

Initially, it is important to determine which variety is most suitable for the premises.

The following options for bar counters are available:

1. Wall-mounted. This variety is not very common. Distinctive feature is its contact with the wall. Access remains on one side only. This option is suitable for a small kitchen in which a normal dining table simply does not fit. The small width and high height of the stand make it possible not to clutter up the room. This creates a fairly comfortable dining space.
2. Combined with a headset. This is one of the common types. The bar counter is a complement to the main part of the furniture. This interior element is placed at an angle to the kitchen unit. It is he who can serve as a partition for various rooms. Sometimes a similar bar counter is used to zone a kitchen space (work area, dining room).
3. Partition stand. Its functions are almost the same as those of the type described above. A distinctive feature of this bar counter is its separation from the kitchen unit. It has no common surface with it. The classic partition stand is always significantly higher than work zone. It is complemented by high chairs. In spacious rooms, a partition wall is used to divide the kitchen and living room.
4. Island. This element does not necessarily have to zone the room. The island stand can only be placed on large kitchen. It has a mainly decorative function. The interior with such a stand looks modern and expensive. It can serve as a dining area. Sometimes it is equipped ovens, hood, hobs, sink or other equipment.

Bar counter in Khrushchev

It is in this apartment that the kitchen is different minimum sizes. As a rule, they are 6 square meters. m. In such an area it is extremely difficult to place all the necessary equipment and accessories and at the same time leave space for cooking. Therefore, many owners remodel and create a beautiful studio kitchen design in Khrushchev.

The advantages of such an association are enormous. After all, additional space appears. To separate the living room and kitchen, a bar counter is often used. This element emphasizes the overall space, and at the same time flows around the work area.

In this case, the bar counter can be of any size. In some interiors it takes up a small space, leaving a fairly wide passage. In addition, it is important to plan what functional load the bar counter will carry.

In Khrushchev-era buildings, such an interior item can play the following role:

• table;
• space for dishes and kitchen utensils;
• area for receiving guests;
• recreation area.

To use space economically, special drawers are built into the bar counter, allowing you to store things and shelves for dishes. This is not only an original, but also a practical design for a small studio kitchen.

Bar counter in a private house

Not only owners of Khrushchev-era apartment buildings may experience difficulties with arranging a kitchen. Many questions arise for those who design a studio kitchen in a private home. The difficulties mainly relate to the non-standard layout.

If space allows, many owners seek to create a kitchen-dining room. This practical option, which greatly facilitates the housewife’s work. It is very convenient to serve and take away dishes during meals. An excellent demarcating element is the bar counter. To emphasize the separation of zones, designers advise using multi-level ceilings and podiums. This allows you to more clearly delimit areas.

A kitchen-living room remains a practical and popular option. As a rule, such a combination is not based at all on the need to increase space. The kitchen-living room is the owners' desire to achieve comfort and coziness.

Let's look at what kitchen studio design ideas the experts presented.

First interior example

Illustration represents original design studio kitchens in the house. The room is different small in size. Therefore, the designer planned a corner kitchen. The harmony of high-tech style is emphasized by an extensive bar counter. It perfectly demarcates the kitchen area and the living room. This demarcation is accentuated by the floor covering.

The design of the bar counter allows it to be used as a dining table. It is comfortable to sit on high chairs behind it.

Original design solution is the top rack, which can easily accommodate glasses. Individuality and style are determined by the lighting installed in it.

Second design idea

This is a kitchen project containing an island counter in the center of the room. This design is only suitable for cottages or large apartments.

The kitchen is distinguished by its original placement of furniture. Appliances - oven, refrigerator - are placed on a separate wall. The main place is occupied by a multi-level rack. It is completely made in the same style as the set. The lower level can be perfectly used as an additional work area. The top one is a dining surface.

The bar counter contains sections for storage. Despite the decorative direction, it has great functionality. The harmonious atmosphere of the kitchen is emphasized by decorative items: jugs, flowers, original chandeliers arranged symmetrically. All this creates a comfortable, stylish and original interior.

Conclusion