A Wooden Schooner’s Charm and My Compact Kitchen Design
I once stepped aboard a magnificent wooden schooner, a replica of the stately vessels that once graced the vast waters of the Great Lakes, carrying goods across what could easily be mistaken for a freshwater sea. The ship’s grandeur was undeniable—the towering wooden mast crafted from a single ancient tree, gleaming brass fittings, sturdy wooden hull and decks, and the vintage charm of paned windows with period-accurate hardware.
Yet, the most vivid memory of that visit was the tantalizing aroma of a meal being prepared below deck. Curiosity led me down into the galley, where a chef was skillfully working in a compact yet masterfully organized space, cooking for a crew of perhaps ten or fifteen. The efficiency and charm of that small galley ignited my imagination and sparked a flurry of mental notes on optimizing small spaces.
This burst of inspiration eventually played a pivotal role in designing the kitchen for our modest home. Over the years, countless clippings, ideas, and inspirations were meticulously stored away, all culminating in the creation of a highly functional yet beautifully simple kitchen within the confines of just thirteen feet of space. I opted to forgo modern conveniences like a dishwasher, garbage disposal, ice maker, and microwave, focusing instead on essential design principles and high-quality appliances to craft a space that blended seamlessly with our living area.
Let me take you on a tour of this little marvel!
An Artistic Beginning
Every room deserves a touch of art, and our kitchen is no exception. A captivating print that resonates with the spirit of the ‘cabin’ now graces our space, echoing the themes of resilience, craftsmanship, and resourcefulness. It sets a tone of inspiration, with room to grow our collection as we discover new pieces.
Bespoke Details and Practical Design
A standout feature is our custom iron pot rack, a rugged yet beautiful piece handcrafted by a local blacksmith after I couldn’t find a pre-made option that suited our style. It perfectly contrasts with the polished pots it holds, adding a raw, industrial edge to the room.
Near the range, we keep cooking essentials within easy reach—olive oil, salt, pepper, and a small wooden container for vitamins. Our knives, cleverly tucked behind the range in a slit of unused space, epitomize the thoughtful use of every inch.
Thoughtful Shelving and Vintage Finds
Our shelves, mounted with iron brackets from Signature Hardware and crafted from reclaimed barn wood sealed with paste wax, provide ample storage for our glassware and white dinnerware, leaving space for future antique finds. These pieces reflect a balance of rustic charm and practical use, much like the ship’s galley that inspired them.
Appliances Tailored to the Space
Our Jenn-Air down-draft range, a serendipitous $75 find from the Salvation Army, is ideal for our compact kitchen, eliminating the need for a bulky range hood. Our Summit Appliance refrigerator, at a slim 30” width and counter depth, fits seamlessly into the space.
Crafting a Faux Soapstone Counter
Initially drawn to the timeless allure of soapstone, we opted for a more budget-friendly solution. I specified furniture-grade plywood counters painted with chalkboard paint, sanded for a mottled effect, and sealed with paste wax. This creative approach yielded a durable and visually appealing surface that mimics the look of natural stone.
Custom Cabinets with a Purpose
Custom cabinetry tailored to my precise specifications allows us to maximize our storage. Every cabinet and drawer was designed with its contents in mind, from the vertical bakeware storage above the fridge to the carefully organized drawers holding our flatware and cooking tools.
Vintage Lighting to Complete the Look
The crowning jewel of our kitchen is a vintage copper light fixture with its original shade, a long-sought treasure that adds a warm, historical touch to the space.
This compact kitchen, much like the schooner’s galley that once inspired it, proves that even the smallest spaces can be filled with beauty, function, and heart.