Small homes and studios

Kitchen Services and Power Planning for Small homes and studios

Locate the equipment first, then coordinate outlets, switches and maintenance access with the relevant trades.

Explore the ideas
White L-shaped kitchen with gold-tone handles, under-cabinet lighting and a chimney
Kitchen inspiration: an L-shaped work surface and integrated lighting.

Walkthrough checklist

  1. Make a schedule of fixed and portable equipment and note where each will actually be used.
  2. Overlay service routes and outlets on the furniture drawings before approving joinery.
  3. Keep shutoffs and frequently serviced connections reachable and have the relevant specialist verify the provision.
Worked example

A coffee machine and kettle are planned on a short counter already used for food preparation.

Mark each appliance’s plug and operating position on the final drawing; coordinate outlets away from splash zones and cabinet conflicts.

How to test it

Check locations against the final furniture and appliance drawings before walls or cabinets are closed.

Apply it to this space
Layout
Group cooking and cleanup together and reserve a clear landing surface beside the refrigerator.
Detail
Use compact, full-extension drawers and continuous under-cabinet task light.
Trade-off
Open shelves make a small kitchen feel lighter but expose visual clutter.
  • Measure appliance doors when open
  • Check counter landing space and task light
Parallel kitchen with teal cabinets, a pale backsplash and profile lighting
Kitchen inspiration: two opposing work runs in a compact plan.

The Elixir portfolio

Details worth a closer look

Photographs for design inspiration
L-shaped kitchen with pale green lower cabinets, white upper cabinets and a tiled backsplash
Kitchen inspiration: a light palette and continuous counter run.
Straight kitchen with sage base cabinets, white wall units and under-cabinet lighting
Kitchen inspiration: a single-wall arrangement with task lighting.

Related design guides

Talk to a Designer