The Difference Between a Kitchen and a Kitchenette

Kitchenettes are compact kitchens designed with minimal equipment and storage, offering just the essentials for cooking and food prep. While they lack the full functionality of a standard kitchen, they can be perfectly suited to small spaces.

The Square Footage of Kitchenettes

Kitchen Vs. Kitchenette

FeatureKitchensKitchenettes
SizeLarger, ample spaceSmaller, typically 80 sq ft and under
EquipmentFull-sized appliances, extensive amenitiesLimited appliances, basic necessities
StorageGenerous storage spaceLimited, less organized
CustomizationUnique styles, customization optionsEmphasis on space optimization, functional design
AdvantagesVersatile, suitable for familiesLow maintenance, cost-effective, ideal for specific needs
DisadvantagesMore expensive, higher maintenanceLimited for fancy cooking, less storage, main living space
Use CasesMain living spaces, familiesSingles, students, short-term stays, cost-effective option

Sometimes, you can have a large room with a kitchenette and a small room with a kitchen. It is more useful to think about how the space is equipped. 


Kitchens

kitchen is a room fully equipped f
Cottage Home Company

A kitchen is a room equipped for preparing and cooking food. It has cabinets, counters, and full-sized appliances. Most kitchens will have a stove/oven, sink, dishwasher, microwave, and refrigerator. Also, kitchens represent our unique styles because there are many options for customization.  

Kitchenettes

Kitchenettes
Martina Williams

Kitchenettes, also called mini kitchens, do not feature generous workspace and standard appliances. Instead, they have items like a small fridge, hot plate, microwave, and sink. Also, a kitchenette is not as well organized as a kitchen because there isn’t space for extra storage. Further, unlike the design styles of many home kitchens, kitchenettes focus on achieving the best use of space rather than style.  

Room with Kitchenette 

Part of a room with a kitchen is one kitchenette definition. These mini kitchens occupy little space and add value to the rooms in which they are located. They can also add extra prep areas in places where you entertain, like a pool house or basement. They are a great way to add independent living space for an older child or relative. 

The Square Footage of Kitchenettes
Magic Projects London Ltd.

70 square feet was the average-sized kitchen before 1900. However, like the size of the average home, the average size of kitchens has increased. Now, a kitchenette is an area of 80 square feet and under. 

What is an All-in-One Kitchenette?

All-in-one kitchenettes are one-piece kitchens containing a cabinet, countertop, sink, and appliances. They often feature one cabinet with a built-in mini fridge/freezer and a two-burner cooktop next to the sink. They are space and money-saving solutions for anyone who needs to put a kitchen in their home, apartment, guest house, or room.