Top 5 Small Kitchen Remodel Ideas for Doylestown Homes
When living in beautiful Doylestown, PA, many of us find ourselves working with kitchens that were built decades ago.
They’re charming, full of character, but often – let’s be honest – short on space. As someone who’s been remodeling homes in Bucks County for over 30 years, I’ve seen how smart design can turn even the smallest kitchen into a functional and beautiful space.
Whether you’re a growing family, empty nester, or simply ready for an upgrade, making the most of every inch is key.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through practical, proven small kitchen remodel ideas that we’ve successfully implemented right here in Doylestown homes.
Idea 1: Open Shelving to Maximize Space
One of the simplest ways to open up a small kitchen is by swapping out heavy upper cabinets for open shelving. In older Doylestown homes, cabinetry often dominates the walls, making kitchens feel boxed-in. By installing floating shelves or minimalistic wood shelving, you create the illusion of more space while making your essentials easily accessible.
In one recent project off Main Street, we replaced dated cabinets with natural wood floating shelves and paired them with under-shelf lighting. The result? A bright, airy kitchen that feels twice its original size without changing the footprint.
Benefits of Open Shelving:
- Visually expands the room by reducing visual clutter
- Allows homeowners to showcase beautiful dishware or plants
- Cost-effective compared to full cabinetry replacement
Pro Tip: Use no more than two shelf levels to avoid overwhelming the space and opt for lighter woods like maple or white oak to keep things feeling light.
Contact us today to schedule your free consultation!
Idea 2: Multi-Functional Kitchen Islands
When floor space is at a premium, your kitchen island needs to do double (or triple) duty. A compact, custom-built island can serve as prep space, storage, and casual seating all in one.
For Doylestown homes, especially those historic rowhouses or mid-century builds, we often recommend:
- Slim islands (24-30 inches deep)
- Rolling or movable islands for flexible space
- Built-in drawers, wine racks, or microwave niches underneath
In a recent Pine Street remodel, we installed a 36″ x 60″ island with pull-out trash bins, deep drawers, and a quartz top. It added prep space and even fit two stools tucked neatly under one side — perfect for quick breakfasts before school.
Space-Saving Tip: Use waterfall countertops with overhangs on two sides to create an elegant seating area without enlarging the island footprint.
Idea 3: Light Color Palettes and Reflective Surfaces
Color plays a massive role in how spacious a kitchen feels. Lighter hues reflect natural and artificial light, making small kitchens appear bigger and brighter. According to Better Homes & Gardens, kitchens using a predominantly white color scheme can feel up to 30% larger than darker-toned kitchens.
In Doylestown, where many kitchens have only one or two small windows, we’ve found that:
- Soft whites, pale grays, and creamy neutrals work best
- Glossy subway tiles or glass backsplashes bounce light effectively
- Satin or semi-gloss cabinet finishes enhance reflectivity
We recently completed a project near Mercer Museum where a combination of white Shaker cabinets, light gray quartz counters, and a mirrored backsplash transformed a once-cramped 10×10 kitchen into an inviting, elegant space.
Design Note: Don’t be afraid to add pops of color through hardware, light fixtures, or barstools to keep the kitchen feeling personalized.
Idea 4: Smart Storage Solutions
Maximizing every square inch of storage is critical in small kitchen remodels. A typical Doylestown kitchen may have awkward corners or unused vertical space, but with thoughtful upgrades, you can fit more than you think.
Some of our go-to solutions include:
- Pull-Out Pantry Units: Perfect for narrow spaces next to refrigerators or walls.
- Lazy Susans: Ideal for corner cabinets — no more digging for pots and pans.
- Vertical Dividers: Store baking sheets, cutting boards, and trays vertically instead of stacking.
- Toe-Kick Drawers: Utilize the empty space under your lower cabinets for additional storage.
For example, in a Colonial home off Ashland Street, we installed custom pull-outs in the pantry and corner cabinets, increasing usable storage space by nearly 40% without enlarging the kitchen footprint.
Helpful Hint: Consider installing a magnetic knife strip, wall-mounted spice racks, or ceiling-hung pot racks to free up counter space and cabinets.
Idea 5: Compact Appliances
One of the most significant improvements in small kitchen design over the past few years has been the surge in high-quality, compact appliances. When you’re working with a kitchen that’s less than 100 square feet, every inch matters.
In Doylestown, where many homes built in the 1950s-70s still have tight galley kitchens, we often recommend:
- 24-inch-wide refrigerators (standard is 30-36 inches)
- Slimline dishwashers (18 inches wide)
- Wall ovens stacked with microwave units
Brands like Bosch and GE Cafe now offer sleek, energy-efficient models designed specifically for small spaces. According to the National Kitchen and Bath Association (NKBA), choosing space-saving appliances can free up 10-15% more usable cabinet or counter space.
Efficiency Tip: Select ENERGY STAR® rated appliances whenever possible — they not only save space but can reduce utility bills by an average of 15-20%.
In one recent Doylestown remodel, we installed a 24-inch induction cooktop paired with a convection microwave, giving the homeowner full functionality without needing a bulky full-size range.
Top 5 Small Kitchen Remodel Ideas for Doylestown Homes
[Full article content as before]
Small Kitchen Remodel Ideas for Doylestown: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How much does a small kitchen remodel cost in Doylestown, PA?
On average, a small kitchen remodel in Doylestown can range between $15,000 to $35,000, depending on the scope of work, materials, and appliances selected. Custom cabinetry, high-end countertops, and structural changes can increase the cost.
2. How long does a small kitchen renovation typically take?
Most small kitchen remodels in Bucks County take 6 to 10 weeks from start to finish. Timelines depend on the complexity of the project, permit approvals, and material availability.
3. Do I need permits for a small kitchen remodel in Bucks County?
Yes, if you’re moving plumbing, electrical, or making structural changes, you’ll need permits from Doylestown Borough or Bucks County authorities. We handle the permitting process for our clients to ensure everything is code-compliant.
4. What are the most popular kitchen styles in Doylestown homes?
In Doylestown, transitional kitchens (a blend of modern and traditional) are very popular. Homeowners often prefer shaker-style cabinets, quartz countertops, open shelving, and neutral color palettes.
5. Can a small kitchen remodel increase my home’s value?
Absolutely. According to Remodeling Magazine’s Cost vs. Value Report, a minor kitchen remodel can recoup up to 77% of its cost in home value, especially in desirable areas like Doylestown.
Bonus: What to Consider When Remodeling Homes in Doylestown and Bucks County
When remodeling older homes in Doylestown and surrounding Bucks County, it’s important to keep a few key factors in mind:
- Historic Preservation Rules: Many properties, especially those near Doylestown’s Historic District, may be subject to guidelines that impact what changes you can make. Always check local ordinances before beginning work.
- Structural Surprises: Homes built before 1980 often have outdated plumbing, electrical, or insulation. Be prepared for the possibility of hidden repairs once demolition starts.
- Energy Efficiency Upgrades: Bucks County offers rebates and incentives for energy-efficient appliances and insulation upgrades. It’s a great time to future-proof your home while remodeling.
- Material Sourcing: Using local stone, reclaimed wood, or PA-manufactured cabinetry can help support local businesses and maintain the historic charm many Bucks County homeowners love.
- Weather Considerations: If your remodel includes exterior work (like window enlargements or new entries for kitchen expansions), remember that Pennsylvania winters can delay construction. Planning work between April and November often leads to faster completions.
Contact us today to schedule your free consultation!
About Andrew Beury Contracting
At Andrew Beury Contracting, we bring over 30 years of trusted craftsmanship to homes across Bucks County. We’re a locally owned and operated business, proud to serve communities like Perkasie, Quakertown, Doylestown, Sellersville, and Newtown with a commitment to quality, transparency, and personal service.
Our Core Services Include:
- Kitchen Remodeling: We transform kitchens with smart layouts, custom cabinetry, modern finishes, and personalized designs. Explore our Kitchen Remodeling Services
- Bathroom Remodeling: From small updates to complete spa-like retreats, we help Bucks County homeowners create bathrooms that are both beautiful and functional. Learn more about Bathroom Remodeling
- Basement Finishing: Unlock the potential of your home’s lower level with custom basement designs for entertainment spaces, offices, gyms, and more. See Basement Finishing Services
- General Home Remodeling: Whether it’s updating your living room, adding a mudroom, or full-home renovations, we help you love where you live again. View our Home Remodeling Services
Why Work with Andrew Beury Contracting?
When you choose Andrew Beury Contracting, you’re working directly with a local team that understands Bucks County homes—from the historic charm of Doylestown to the growing neighborhoods in Quakertown.
We pride ourselves on:
- Clear Communication: You’ll always know the next step.
- Experienced Craftsmanship: We treat every home like it’s our own.
- Detailed Planning: No surprises. Just smooth, well-organized projects.
- Personalized Designs: Tailored to your family’s needs, style, and lifestyle.
Let’s bring your vision to life with a remodeling experience that’s straightforward, stress-free, and truly transformational.
Contact us today to schedule your free consultation!
Conclusion on Small Kitchen Remodel Ideas for Doylestown
Small kitchens may present challenges, but with the right strategies, they offer endless opportunities to create cozy, efficient, and beautiful spaces.
I’ve seen firsthand how just a few smart changes — whether it’s swapping bulky cabinets for open shelving, integrating a space-saving island, or choosing light-reflective materials — can make all the difference.
At Andrew Beury Contracting, we’re passionate about helping Doylestown homeowners reimagine their kitchens to fit their lifestyles. If you’re dreaming of a kitchen that feels bigger, brighter, and more functional, let’s talk.
So, these are the top 5 Small Kitchen Remodel Ideas for Doylestown!