Small Space Hacks: This is a Dream Kitchen for City Dwellers

Jun 28, 2014

Imagine your entire kitchen fitting into a tiny space. Some of us don’t need to imagine it — we live it! But we’re not saying you should learn to cope with your too-small-to-cook-in kitchen. We’re talking about having everything you could possibly need to function comfortably in a kitchen, fitting perfectly into a small room.

A fridge, freezer, sink, stovetop, oven, microwave, dishwasher and prep space are all major components in a normal-sized kitchen. And that doesn’t even save room for a table and chairs. The peeps over at General Electric are trying to make it possible to have room for a table, no matter how small your kitchen is. No more resorting to your couch to eat your meals. Say hello to the GE microkitchen concept: It’s basically the next best thing to moving into a house with a bigger kitchen.

The microkitchen is designed with all the appliances you need, crammed into a credenza-like counter. It doesn’t feature full-sized appliances, but when you’re living in an itty-bitty apartment, chances are, you don’t need an entire fridge and freezer to yourself. Plus, the touchscreen control panel more than makes up for the lack of extra fridge storage.

There are so many reasons why you should be obsessed with GE’s brilliant concept. A touchscreen display controls the entire unit, from the dishwasher to the microwave. It also controls the temperature of water coming from the faucet, which folds seamlessly into the wall! With the faucet out of the way, you’ve got plenty of room to get all your prep work done on the built-in cutting board. But one of our favorite features is the induction range… mostly because it’s like an invisible stove (and therefore, magic).

Sadly, this is just an experimental prototype that has no immediate plans to be created. But how cool if/when it is?! Plus, the studio dwellers among us will take the small space inspo wherever we can get it.

Would you be interested in getting a microkitchen for your small space? Sound off in the comments!

(h/t: Fast Company)

These Cozy Sectional Sofas Are Actually Small Space-Friendly

Lounging on a sectional sofa makes reading a book and Netflix binges all the more cozy. But sometimes a small space doesn't have the square footage to accommodate a sofa and chaise, and fears of Ross's pivot scene in Friends (still cracks me up) start to creep up. Not to worry, though. We've rounded up sleek sectional sofas that don't take up too much space, provide tons of comfort, and look stylish to boot. Sit back, relax, and scroll for the comfiest couch made for you.

Anthropologie Kori Modular Armless Sofa ($1,119)

Great way to save space? Lose the arms! With this comfortable modular sofa you can do just that. We are digging this clay color too.

Kohl's 4-seat Linen Sectional With 3 Pillows

This small-space friendly sectional is all the comfort you need, from comfy linen fabric cushions to throw pillows you can lean back on through any Netflix binge session.

Castlery Jonathan Left Chaise ($1,079)

This well-made, modular chaise sectional can be moved around to suit your space -- and it's so comfy!

LEISLAND Modern Sectional ($499)

Pet-friendly chenille fabric in a sunny yellow will cheer up any small space. Two arm cushions make it extra cozy.

Albany Park Kova Sofa + Ottoman ($1,729)

Get sucked in for all your movie nights with this deep and cozy, cloud-soft sofa. The ottoman provides extra storage too!

Living Spaces Emery Chiffon Sofa With Reversible Chaise ($495)

This affordable sectional seats three comfortably and gives you the option to move your chaise from left to right and vice versa (the extension below the chair cushion is detached). Available with an optional storage ottoman too.

Novogratz Magnolia Sectional ($620)

This small space sectional sofa with reversible chaise has what's called a slender mailbox arm that maximizes seating space. Extra throw pillows included!

Modway Revive Modern Upholstered Right or Left Sectional ($521)

Clean lines with mid-century vibes make this sleek sofa in a rich jewel tone an easy fit for your snug space.

UO Modular Velvet Sofa ($479+)

Available in a bunch of candy-colored hues, this velvet sofa is super versatile, featuring three separate pieces that you can arrange to suit your space.

Ami Sun Sofa With Reversible Chaise ($595)

Soft, suede-like fabric make this reversible chaise sofa an elegant addition to any small space, from living room to office.

Geo 2-Piece Vegan Leather Sectional ($1,070)

This sleek silhouette, reversible sofa and chaise is made in vegan leather upholstery that's super easy to clean.

World Market Camile Velvet Right Facing Sectional Sofa ($1,700)

Available in three colors, this velvety sectional features a loveseat and a chaise, plus deep comfy seats in a stain-resistant fabric!

All Modern 2-Piece Reversible Chaise Sectional ($1,000)

This space-conscious sofa doesn’t overwhelm a room and it's upholstery stands up to sun and spills, win-win!

Etta Avenue Chella Upholstered Sectional ($1,000)

This black velvet chaise lounge has a bit of Old Hollywood vibes. It's reversible and has a unique tufted feature on the back rest. Two round pillows included — score!

Eafurn Convertible Modular Sectional Sofa ($579)

This modular sofar is easy to assemble, super affordable, and comes in a soft corduroy upholstery.

West Elm Oliver 2-Piece Chaise Sectional ($999)

West Elm has great sofas and this one is totally affordable and small-space-friendly at just under 80 inches wide.

Nathanel Sofa and Chaise in Ginger ($880)

Corduroy upholstery make this ginger-colored sofa all the more cozy.

IKEA FRIHETEN Sectional ($899)

This convertible sleeper sofa is great for studio dwellers and comes with built-in storage to boot.

Burrow Field 3-Piece Sectional Lounger ($1,490)

This compact, two-seater with chaise has deep seats, plush cushions, and comes with an ottoman (you can also add seating as you grow into a larger space).

Mario Capasa Feathers Sectional ($1,500)

This washable sectional is water-resistant and stain-resistant and the feather-and-fiber blend batting make it so cozy.

Wayfair Tufted Modular Sofa With Memory Foam ($1,400)

You can move these extremely cozy and lounge-y seats around to your liking to fit your space. Try a square!

Find more home decor inspo on our Home page and follow us on Pinterest!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

Header image via Albany Park

15 Products That Will Seriously Elevate Your Outdoor Style (Under $100)

'Tis the season for outdoor entertaining and colorful outdoor decor! A fresh makeover can lift your mood and make you *feel* like you're on vacay, even if the current situation keeps you close to home. Here are colorful accessories and furniture — all $100 and less — to give your yard, deck, balcony a style upgrade.

West Elm Modern Melamine Dinnerware

Add some fun color to your table with a variety of pastel plates and bowls.

Room Essentials Incandescent Outdoor String Lights

Every evening get together needs some lighting! String lights (or fairy lightsif you prefer to call them that) are a great way to add a little bit of light to any space.

Textured Striped Roped Trim Outdoor Pouf

Whether you're birdwatching or delving into your favorite summer read, this is the perfect place to rest your feet.

Sunnydaze Outdoor Resin Hanging Basket Egg Chair

Trade your somewhat uncomfortable outdoor seating with a hanging basket egg chair that will have you taking naps everyday of summer. Talk about cozy outdoor decor!

CB2 Rex Open Weave Outdoor Armchair

Brunch, baby showers, and family reunions deserve cute outdoor seating.

Natalie Catalina For Deny Outdoor Throw Pillow

Throw pillows are one of our favorite ways to add some pizzazz to any space, and these fun picks are no exception.

Modern Round Accent Lightweight Side End Table

We'll take any home decor that's a shade of pink. We love the way the baby pink softens the fun, modern design.

Urban Outfitters Cat Pool Float

We're all smiles this summer, especially when this cute cat inflatable pool is involved!

Threshold 'Here Comes the Sun' Natural Doormat

We all need a reminder to soak up the sun so choose this cute doormat to brighten up your outdoor decor!

West Elm Fluted Acrylic Glassware

Fun colors, silhouettes, and details make this glassware a summery addition to any and every table.

Crate & Barrel Calas White Ceramic Lanterns

If you ask us, it's more important for a lantern to look pretty than provide a ton of light. We're in love with these decorative ceramic ones!

Bright Beige Monstera Hand-Printed Cloth Napkins

Swap your plain napkins for some fun printed ones instead.

Threshold Outdoor Patio Floor Cushion

Floor cushions are a much better alternative to just sitting on the ground, and this fun print makes us love it even more.

Crate & Barrel Metal Bird Indoor/Outdoor Planter

Planters are always a good idea, and this bird one will add extra character to your window sill or table.

Check out our online newsletter for more outdoor decor inspo!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

Additional reporting by Chloe Williams.

This post has been updated.

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Hack Your At-Home Workout With IKEA's New Collection

Whether you bought this year’s viral walking pad or are looking for entirely new ways to work out, IKEA’s new workout collection will fill out your routine in the most stylish way. DAJLIEN, the fitness-focused drop, launches in January 2024 and is all about makingexercise more accessible, and furthermore, at-home exercise more streamlined.

“Not everyone feels safe or comfortable going to a gym and at home we often deal with small space and time constraints. DAJLIEN was born from the desire to find smart solutions that address these limitations and help people create a convenient and motivating place for exercise", says Sarah Fager, Designer at IKEA of Sweden. “We wanted to create smart, beautiful products to inspire and redefine training as a fun, easy and natural everyday activity.”

Many of the products in the new collection are part training equipment, part storage, making them an easy, inconspicuous fit into your home spaces, even if they’re small. Not everything included in the new IKEA workout collection is for working out, though – there are plenty of choices for cooling down and relieving stress, which is a major part of each and every one of our well being!

If you’re ready to focus more on creating healthy habits at home, get ready to throw on your best sports braandleggings, and shop the DAJLIEN collection in January. Here’s a sneak peek of what will be available!

The New IKEA Workout Collection At A Glance

The new IKEA workout collection includes everything from steps, mats, dumbbells, and bands for working out. When you finish your run, yoga routine, or cardio sesh, then IKEA also has accessories for cooling down, such as stretch bands, towels, and gym bags. The entire collection leans heavily into serene shades of green, and energizing bright yellows.

This bench-desk hybrid piece of IKEA furniture can store your workout gear for at-home exercise. When you're not using it to sweat it out, this piece can double as a small coffee table or entryway bench.

These light pink stretching bands are adorable and practical. They adjust to different lengths so that you can personalize your warm-up and cool-down!

Get that jammin'workout playlist going using this wireless speaker in the IKEA workout collection! Our mix of high-energy sounds will motivate you to do your best every single day.

You're going to feel like a total boss carrying this gym bag around. The mesh material makes this pick super breathable, and the wide straps allow easy transport to and from the park, the gym, and your home.

You can totally still get your run on with the IKEA workout collection – this simple belt bag (fit for keys, cards, etc.) is proof.

The best thing about these yellow slides is that they can be worn for active days and lazy ones, too. Obsessed with that.

IKEA really made it easy to centralize all your at-home workout gear with this chic rolling cart. Place everything you need to succeed in here, from mats to bags, and water bottles to pre-workout snacks.

A basic yoga mat is crucial for at-home fitness. This deep green one will support an array of movements and catch all that sweat you're burning off.

We can tell these circular dumbbells are already one of our favorite products. The sleek design can really double as decor if you choose to put them on display.

The IKEA workout collection will include these oval-shaped workout mats that come in a few different soothing greens. The wider design makes more room for your at-home stretches and yoga routines.

Sign up for our weekend scroll for more can't-miss home decor drops!

Images via IKEA.

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Here's Your First Look At Auli'i Cravalho's "Moana 2"

From Disney princesses that make us feel beautiful to heroes of all kinds represented on screen, Disney movies make us feel so much bigger than ourselves. Thanks to the D23 Disney expo in Anaheim, California, we know about so many new Disney movies, and we simply cannot contain ourselves. From brand new TV shows to long-awaited films, these Disney movies and new TV shows will have you jumping, singing, and dancing for joy.

New Disney Movies Coming In 2024

Image via Disney Pixar

Inside Out 2 — In Theaters June 14, 2024

Following 2015's Inside Out, all of your favorite characters are back along with the now-teenage Riley. And that means they're going to be joined by the greatest of all teen emotions: anxiety. Watch the Inside Out 2 trailer here.

Image via Marvel Studios

Deadpool 3 — In Theaters July 26, 2024

Ryan Reynolds is back with some kick-butt action alongside Hugh Jackman and...Taylor Swift? Like the majority of Marvel's Phase 5, Deadpool & Wolverine will focus on the consequences of one particular anti-hero's time travel. Watch the Deadpool & Wolverine trailer here.

Image via Walt Disney Studios

Moana 2 — November 27, 2024

Moana's brand new adventure takes her (and Maui, of course) across Oceania to a part of the ocean she's never seen before. Auliʻi Cravalho just confirmed that she's coming back for the sequel, which also features brand new music from TikTok songwriters Barlow & Bear. We can't wait to hear their music! See the Moana 2 first look here.

Image via Disney

Mufasa: The Lion King — In Theaters December 20, 2024

This The Lion King prequel focuses on Rafiki, Timon, and Pumbaa, who tell the story of King Mufasa — and how he became one of the greatest kings the Pride Lands had ever seen — to a young cub.

Image via Disney

Snow White — In Theaters March 21, 2025

This live-action take on Walt Disney's first film stars Rachel Zegler as Snow White and Gal Gadot as the Evil Queen set on taking Snow White's beauty for herself. Not only is the cast amazing, but the film also features classic music and new songs from songwriters Benji Pasek and Justin Paul, who did the music Dear Evan Hansen and La La Land.

More New Disney Movies + Shows To Watch On Disney+

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The Little Mermaid

In this live-action remake of the beloved cartoon, mermaid Ariel (Halle Bailey) longs to be part of the human world and makes a deal with sea witch Ursula in order to leave the sea. Watch The Little Mermaid trailer here.

Image via Disney Pixar

Elemental

Elemental is inspired by real-life immigrants who live together in multicultural neighborhoods, and it explores how fire, water, land, and air residents — including fiery Ember and easy-going Wade — live together in one city. Watch the Elemental trailer here.

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The Marvels

After 2019's Captain Marvel, Carol Danvers (Brie Larson) joins forces with Monica Rambeau (Teyonah Parris) and Kamala Khan (Iman Vellani) to figure out why using their powers causes them to swap places with one another. Watch The Marvels trailer here.

Image via Disney+

Percy Jackson & the Olympians

This long-awaited series stars Walker Scobell, Aryan Simhadri, and Leah Sava Jeffries. The series follows Percy Jackson after he learns that he's the son of Poseidon and joins other demigods at Camp Half-Blood. Watch the Percy Jackson & The Olympianstrailer and our interview with the cast on YouTube!

Image via Disney+

Andor

This 24-episode Star Wars series (which is set five years before the one-off Rogue One film) follows Cassian Andor (Diego Luna) on a journey of danger and intrigue as he turns into a rebel hero. Watch the Andor trailer here.

Image via Disney+

Hocus Pocus 2

Twenty-nine years after Max lit the Black Flame Candle, the Sanderson sisters are back in Salem, and it's up to three high-schoolers to stop them before dawn breaks on All Hallow's Eve. Rewatch this sequel before Hocus Pocus 3 comes out! Watch the Hocus Pocus 2 trailer here.

Image via Disney+

The Santa Clauses

Picking up after the Santa Claus trilogy, Scott Calvin (Tim Allen) is approaching his 65th birthday and, after he realizes that he can't be Santa forever, he sets out to find the perfect replacement. Watch The Santa Clauses trailer here.

The Whole Family Will Love These New Disney Movies

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Strange World

Strange World follows a family — which includes Jake Gyllenhaal, Dennis Quaid, and Lucy Liu —who, after they discover a new world full of both exciting surprises and danger, must put aside their differences to save it. Watch the Strange World trailer here.

Image via Disney+

Disenchanted

Disenchanted picks up 15 years after Giselle (Amy Adams) and Robert's (Patrick Dempsey) wedding, and Giselle has grown disillusioned. The family decides to move to Monroeville, but the change isn't exactly the fix Giselle's been looking for, prompting her to use magic to set things right. The only problem? She accidentally turns Monroeville into a real-life fairy tale and threatens her family's happiness in the process. Watch the Disenchanted trailer here.

Image via Disney+

Willow

This live-action series returns to the world from the 1988 film, as a new group of heroes sets out to find the sorcerer Willow. Watch the Willow trailer here.

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National Treasure: Edge of History

Based on the movies of the same name, Jess (Lisette Olivera) and her friends set out on a new treasure hunt to discover the truth about her father. Watch the National Treasure: Edge of History trailer here.

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Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania

Scott Lang (Paul Rudd) and Hope Van Dyne (Evangeline Lilly) team up with Hope's parents (Michael Douglas and Michelle Pfeiffer) and Scott's daughter (Kathryn Newton) to explore the Quantum Realm and encounter possibilities and dangers they thought were impossible. Watch the Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania here.

Image via Disney+

The Proud Family: Louder and Prouder

The story of Penny Proud (Kyla Pratt) and her family is far from over, and the new season of this series follows all of their antics and adventures. Watch the trailer for season 2 here.

Image via Disney/Paramount/Lucasfilm

Indiana Jones And The Dial Of Destiny

Harrison Ford (who plays the titular character) got misty-eyed while announcing Indiana Jones 5 at the D23 expo. Ford is joined by Fleabag creator and star Phoebe Waller-Bridge, who plays Indiana's goddaughter Helena. Watch the Indiana Jones 5 trailer here.

More New Disney Movies To Watch In 2024

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Win or Lose

This long-form series follows co-ed middle school softball team the Pickles during the week of their championship game. Each episode, which is told with a different visual style, is from the perspective of a different main character.

Image via Disney+

Iwájú

This long-form series — created in collaboration with Kugali, a Pan-African comic book entertainment company — follows Tola, an heiress from the wealthy island in Lagos, and her best friend and tech expert Kole from the mainland. It's full of color and life, and is a love letter to Lagos, Nigeria. Watch the Iwájú trailer here.

Image via Disney+

Peter Pan & Wendy

Starring Alexander Molony as Peter Pan, Ever Anderson as Wendy, Alyssa Wapanâtahk as Tiger Lily, and Jude Law as Captain Hook, Peter Pan & Wendy goes deeper into Wendy's story than ever before as she sets out on a journey to Neverland with Peter. Watch the Peter Pan & Wendy trailer here.

Image via Marvel Studios

Ironheart

Following Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, Riri Williams (Dominique Thorne) returns to the screen, blending magic and tech with her approach to building iron suits. Anthony Ramos costars as Parker Robbins.

Image via Disney

Haunted Mansion

Former Disneyland employee Justin Simien directs this new Disney movie, which focuses on a woman and her son who get a group of spiritual experts to help them clear their home of supernatural spirits. The cast list includes Jamie Lee Curtis, Tiffany Haddish, and Rosario Dawson. Watch the Haunted Mansion trailer here.

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Featured image via Walt Disney Pictures/Disney+/Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures.

This post has been updated.

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Target Spring Decor Pieces For A Home Refresh Under $100

The concept of a spring "refresh" usually comes in the form of spring cleaning, but I think a brand new season totally warrants some brand new home decor! Luckily, the decor at Target right now is perfectly fit for springtime, donning saturated colors and floral patterns. From bedding items that definitely give Anthropologie bedding to sweet-smelling candles that double as centerpieces, the current Target spring decor is just too adorable.

These Target spring decor picks are perfect for sprucing up *all* of your spaces, and the best part is they're all under $100. Score!

Threshold Bold Plaid Square Throw Pillow

Give me all the rainbow plaid this spring! This outdoor-indoor throw pillow is just the piece you need if your couch is craving a pop of color this season. It's crafted using a soft polyester filling and a UV-resistant exterior that helps retain the vibrant colors, even in the sun.

Hilton Carter Terracotta Embossed Ceramic Planter

This planter (available in a small size and a large size) takes your classic terracotta pot up a notch with a bubble design that encapsulates the playful tone of springtime. It's fitted with a single drain hole and a matching saucer for practical plant reasons, but looks so chic whether you display it inside or outside!

DVF for Target Tall Glass Drinkware Set

Got a garden party planned this spring? Bring some eye-catching color to the table with this 4-piece glassware set from the Diane von Furstenberg collection for Target. Now, your spring cocktails (or mocktails) have a proper place to be sipped from!

Threshold Striped Border Doormat

Why greet your guests with a bland doormat? This bold graphic design makes a statement with blocked lettering and a green striped border. It's made from a medium-pile, coarsely-textured material that keeps dirt at bay and makes cleaning easy.

Threshold Boho Sunflower Pillow

This floral pillow is absolutely serving Anthropologie dupe. With intricate flower illustrations and thoughtful stitching throughout, you're getting Anthro quality at a fraction of the price. It's the perfect piece for adding strong spring energy to your bedspread!

Threshold Boho Earthy Vines Quilt

Same thing goes for this adorable boho quilt! The color scheme and stitch work are super reminiscent of what Anthropolgie's doing in their bedding department, and this design instantly warms up your room the same exact way. This quilt, available in sizes full, queen, and king, is actually reversible – it has a yellow side and a nice light blue side that you can play with when you decorate!

Threshold Neroli + Ivy Ceramic Candle

There's nothing like opening up your windows, lighting a candle, and letting the fresh air come in on a sunny spring day. This scented candle (only $10!) that smells like neroli and ivy supplies such a fitting scent for days where you just wanna kick back, relax, and watch the sun calmly trickle in through your window.

Threshold Happy Spring Wall Hanging

Honor the season of blooms with this darling flag that flaunts different designs of springtime, from butterflies to bees. It's *so* cute, you'll wanna hang it up every year!

Threshold Colorful Floral Framed Canvas

Of course, your wall art has to be on-theme with spring! This $45 canvas comes with the entire package – a frame and hanging hardware – to get your gallery wall game going. This way, you can display a bouquet without actually having to buy flowers every week!

Opalhouse Floral Printed Cotton Percale Sheet Set

Complete your spring bed set-up with these sheets dotted with pink and yellow petals! These sheets are made of 100% percale cotton, which ensures softness and breathability with every sleep. The set is available in sizes twin, twin XL, full, queen, and king for just $50, and is shoppable in 3 other color schemes and patterns.

Costway 6 Drawer Rolling Storage Cart

Your home office could *definitely* benefit from a lively color palette, and this practical Target spring decor piece brings it all with added practicality for holding papers, art supplies, cords, and the like. It moves around on lockable rolling wheels if you like to take your work on the go!

Threshold Multi Plaid Napkins

Another amazing Target spring decor piece for tablescapes, these reusable rainbow plaid napkins bring a spirited vibe. They'd be so cute as a wrap for colorful silverware!

Room Essentials Seashell Throw Pillow

This seashell throw pillow works in those vacation vibes without you ever having to leave the house (except to make a Target run, of course)! The pale yellow color is super on-trend this year, and you could even decorate with this piece beyond spring, into summer.

Room Essentials Printed Plush Floral Throw Blanket

Cozy up against this throw blanket that delivers both on comfort and spring colors! You can snag it for just $10 in two different colors – blue or pink – both of which have a variety of different floral prints. When you're not cuddling up, it'll make your sofa or bed look the part for the season.

Threshold Floral Doormat

Make coming home an absolute treat with this floral doormat that boasts every color from an electric chartreuse to a deep purple.

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Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

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