45 Basement Kitchenette Ideas to Help You Entertain in Style

Basement kitchenettes are starting to gain popularity as more and more basements are turned into warm living areas.  We are seeing many homeowners including a kitchenette or some type of beverage center in their basement renovation plans.

In almost all cases, a basement kitchenette is a small part of a larger basement living area. For example, you might have a family room in the basement with a kitchenette built at one end.  Maybe you have a theater area with a kitchenette nearby where the family can enjoy some refreshments; or even a guest bedroom with a kitchenette–giving the occupant some additional privacy and saving them the trouble of using the main kitchen. It could also be part of an entertainment area, or a basement bar or anything else you have in mind.

Before we delve deeper into this new trend, what is a kitchenette? It is a simple small kitchen used for basic food and beverage preparation activities.

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MOVIE NIGHT

45 NOTEWORTHY BASEMENT KITCHENETTE IDEAS TO HELP YOU ENTERTAIN IN STYLE

CDA Interior Design

This is all set and ready to go for the next movie night!

TUCKED AWAY

45 NOTEWORTHY BASEMENT KITCHENETTE IDEAS TO HELP YOU ENTERTAIN IN STYLE

HOM Solutions,Inc

You don’t need a ton of space to have something great-looking and functional.

GREAT SPACE

45 NOTEWORTHY BASEMENT KITCHENETTE IDEAS TO HELP YOU ENTERTAIN IN STYLE

Case Design/Remodeling Indy

This kitchenette is a great extra area to have in a basement.

SIT AND RELAX

45 NOTEWORTHY BASEMENT KITCHENETTE IDEAS TO HELP YOU ENTERTAIN IN STYLE

StoryBook Rooms, LLC

You have everything you need here.

SOFT & SERENE

45 NOTEWORTHY BASEMENT KITCHENETTE IDEAS TO HELP YOU ENTERTAIN IN STYLE

rchitectural Designs

Pretty blue/gray color on these basement kitchenette cabinets.

CABIN CHIC

45 NOTEWORTHY BASEMENT KITCHENETTE IDEAS TO HELP YOU ENTERTAIN IN STYLE

Tipping Development, Inc

Perfect wet bar for your cabin get-away.

BASEMENT WONDER

basement-kitchenette-ideas

Sebring Design Build

What a great area to have in your basement. Cabinets are so rich and warm.

BEACHY TIMES

45 NOTEWORTHY BASEMENT KITCHENETTE IDEAS TO HELP YOU ENTERTAIN IN STYLE

Francesca Owings Interior Design

This room has a subtle beach feel. Great lighting in the wet bar area.

SMALL KITCHEN

45 NOTEWORTHY BASEMENT KITCHENETTE IDEAS TO HELP YOU ENTERTAIN IN STYLE

Kenorah Design + Build Ltd.

While technically a kitchen–this concept could be easily transported into a corner of a basement as a kitchenette.

WARM & INVITING

45 NOTEWORTHY BASEMENT KITCHENETTE IDEAS TO HELP YOU ENTERTAIN IN STYLE

Weidmann Remodeling

This kitchenette features warm cherry cabinets and a gorgeous stone backsplash.

Planning For a Basement Kitchenette

The most important part of setting up a basement kitchenette is the planning stage. Any successful home improvement project begins with thorough planning. It is important that you coordinate with a contractor early on. This blog will help you make the right decisions and save money right from the get go.

First, what is the state of the basement? Finished or unfinished? If you already have a finished basement, your work is much easier. It’s all a matter of designating a space for the kitchenette and setting it up.  On the other hand, if your basement is still a catch-all for your old junk; there is plenty of work that needs to be done before you can even think of setting up the kitchenette.

Here are other important issues you need to think about when setting up a kitchenette in basement:

Ventilation – You cannot have cooking fumes and odors getting trapped in the basement. Proper ventilation is essential both for safety and comfort. Discuss with your contractor to determine which type of ventilation is best for your kitchenette.Safety – With a kitchenette in the basement, you cannot afford to take safety for granted. Find out what the local code is regarding basement renovations and take adequate safety precautions including sprinklers, smoke alarms and escape routes.

COMFY & COZY

45 NOTEWORTHY BASEMENT KITCHENETTE IDEAS TO HELP YOU ENTERTAIN IN STYLE

Old World Kitchens & Custom Cabinets

No problem relaxing in this basement–great kitchenette!

FRESH & FUN

45 NOTEWORTHY BASEMENT KITCHENETTE IDEAS TO HELP YOU ENTERTAIN IN STYLE

Classic Kitchens & Interiors

What a fresh & fun space. Those light fixtures are so different!

STORAGE GALORE

45 NOTEWORTHY BASEMENT KITCHENETTE IDEAS TO HELP YOU ENTERTAIN IN STYLE

TreHus Architects+Interior Designers+Builders

What a great basement kitchenette area–so much storage!

STAGGERED

45 NOTEWORTHY BASEMENT KITCHENETTE IDEAS TO HELP YOU ENTERTAIN IN STYLE

Fine Wood Cabinets

What a unique design!

Size – A kitchenette is by definition smaller than a standard kitchen. But there still are size variations among different kitchenettes. On the compact end, there are really small ones with the most basic of necessities: a small counter, a small wall cabinet and perhaps an appliance or two. It is small enough to fit into one corner of the basement. You can also go a bit bigger, taking up one end of the basement. Here you have a few more appliances and a larger working space as well as storage; but still not at the level of a normal kitchen. The right size will depend on your budget, family size and basement size.Storage – In a kitchenette, storage demands are not many. You can make do with a few wall cabinets combined with floor cabinets below the countertop. The amount of storage will depend on the size of kitchenette and how heavily it is used. If you use it to entertain friends regularly, more is better.Appliances – Even a kitchenette needs appliances for proper functionality. The biggest challenge with kitchenette appliances is space. Most likely you will not have room for a full fridge, microwave, and oven in that small space. So decide which appliances you need most. Once you decide, buy them in smaller sizes. You can even get appliances like the fridge and microwave recessed into a cabinet to save space and create a cleaner look.  We found some helpful information at Remodelista regarding smaller scale appliances.

GROOVY LOUNGE

45 NOTEWORTHY BASEMENT KITCHENETTE IDEAS TO HELP YOU ENTERTAIN IN STYLE

Joshua Lawrence Studios Inc

This kitchenette definitely has a lounge vibe.

CONTEMPORARY COOL

45 NOTEWORTHY BASEMENT KITCHENETTE IDEAS TO HELP YOU ENTERTAIN IN STYLE

Christopher Developments

Love the blue accent tile and how it is tied into the rug.

BARN DOOR BAR

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Sebring Design Build

This basement kitchenette featuring white cabinets has just what you need to host some great parties or enjoy a movie with the family.

FIRED UP

45 NOTEWORTHY BASEMENT KITCHENETTE IDEAS TO HELP YOU ENTERTAIN IN STYLE

Pizzale Design Inc.

What a great gathering spot.

Dry Bar Vs. Wet Bar – A wet bar is defined as one with running water and a sink, however it does not always have to serve alcoholic drinks. A dry bar is simply a beverage center and has no running water. So who’s the winner between wet bar vs. dry bar? It all depends on your preferences and budget. A wet bar will likely prove to be more convenient, but will be more expensive to build because of the plumbing required for the running water.Lighting – Finally, plan your lighting with both aesthetic and functional goals in mind. On the aesthetics part, decide what look you want–warm, elegant, cool etc. and use lighting to achieve it. You can also use puck and strip lights for decorative effect on various areas of your kitchenette. On the practical side, make sure the overhead lighting will provide adequate illumination. Add under-cabinet lights to further illuminate the working area.

Take some time to look through our basement kitchenette round-up.  We’ve also included some photos of wet bars and other beverage/food preparation areas to help with the conception of your new space!

TLANTA WET BAR

45 NOTEWORTHY BASEMENT KITCHENETTE IDEAS TO HELP YOU ENTERTAIN IN STYLE

Trademark Building Company

This taupe/gray cabinet color is not something you see every day. Nice layout–like the crisscross wine storage.

SLATE MOSAIC

45 NOTEWORTHY BASEMENT KITCHENETTE IDEAS TO HELP YOU ENTERTAIN IN STYLE

Stacy McLennan Interiors

Beautiful slate tile wall.

COTTAGE CUTE

45 NOTEWORTHY BASEMENT KITCHENETTE IDEAS TO HELP YOU ENTERTAIN IN STYLE

Blue Sky Building Company

What a cute & functional area tucked away in this cottage.

PORTLAND INDUSTRIAL

45 NOTEWORTHY BASEMENT KITCHENETTE IDEAS TO HELP YOU ENTERTAIN IN STYLE

Mosaik Design & Remodeling

Love the backsplash and cabinet handles.

VIBRANT BACKSPLASH

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Sebring Design Build

This is such a unique wet bar area.

DARK & HANDSOME

45 NOTEWORTHY BASEMENT KITCHENETTE IDEAS TO HELP YOU ENTERTAIN IN STYLE

Pineapple House Interior Design

So nice that this wet bar includes a built-in espresso machine.

Basement Kitchenette Design Tips

1. Easy Maintenance

One of the things homeowners ignore when designing a basement kitchenette is maintenance. Simply because you have added space to your home does not mean that you have to saddle yourself with even more endless cleaning. Keep things simple and use materials that are easy to clean. For the flooring, materials like vinyl and tile are great. Wood is not so advisable considering that a basement is likely to be more humid than the rest of the house, which makes it a bit harder to maintain. For the countertop, choose laminate, quartz, recycled glass and other low-maintenance materials.

2. Go Neutral

When it comes time to paint the walls, neutral colors are better. Colors like beige, gray and white create a light and airy atmosphere that can be helpful in space where space is limited. After you have chosen the main color, use the cabinets, countertop or backsplash to create a contrasting accent. For example, off-white walls with gray cabinets and a warm toned countertop. Hopefully this kitchenette image roundup will provide inspiration on what colors will work best for your project.

3. Movable Furniture

Another great idea for a basement kitchenette is to use movable furniture. This allows the space to be quickly reconfigured and can even be made smaller when you need extra room for some other activity. This comes in handy for smaller multi-purpose basements.

4. Include a Larger Dining Area

While the bar provides a good place for sitting and dining, it does not always work so well for large families. If you have the space for it, consider adding a larger dining area to the side. This provides more comfortable sitting for formal dinners and can be handy when you have friends over.

WOOD & BRICK

45 NOTEWORTHY BASEMENT KITCHENETTE IDEAS TO HELP YOU ENTERTAIN IN STYLE

Michael Schmitt Architect pc

Love the open wood shelving.

COTTAGE

45 NOTEWORTHY BASEMENT KITCHENETTE IDEAS TO HELP YOU ENTERTAIN IN STYLE

Élysée

Nice & clean–you have everything you need here.

DOUBLE DUTY

45 NOTEWORTHY BASEMENT KITCHENETTE IDEAS TO HELP YOU ENTERTAIN IN STYLE

Sebring Design Build

Not one, but two wine fridges–great wet bar area.

STAINLESS STEEL

45 NOTEWORTHY BASEMENT KITCHENETTE IDEAS TO HELP YOU ENTERTAIN IN STYLE

Matarozzi Pelsinger Builders

So striking!

COLORFUL KITCHENETTE

45 NOTEWORTHY BASEMENT KITCHENETTE IDEAS TO HELP YOU ENTERTAIN IN STYLE

Cre8tive Interior Designs

This kitchenette is so bright and cheerful!

DARK AND RICH

45 NOTEWORTHY BASEMENT KITCHENETTE IDEAS TO HELP YOU ENTERTAIN IN STYLE

Sebring Design Build

A great expansive wet bar area! Perfect for entertaining.

OPEN CONCEPT

45 NOTEWORTHY BASEMENT KITCHENETTE IDEAS TO HELP YOU ENTERTAIN IN STYLE

Thompson Remodeling

Open & sleek. You could easily add a microwave and you area good to go!

CATCH A WAVE

45 NOTEWORTHY BASEMENT KITCHENETTE IDEAS TO HELP YOU ENTERTAIN IN STYLE

East End Country Kitchens

Fun beachy/wavy backsplash tile.

CRAFTSMAN

45 NOTEWORTHY BASEMENT KITCHENETTE IDEAS TO HELP YOU ENTERTAIN IN STYLE

Designs by BSB

Love the blue color on these craftsman cabinets.

HAMPTON STYLE

45 NOTEWORTHY BASEMENT KITCHENETTE IDEAS TO HELP YOU ENTERTAIN IN STYLE

DHD Architecture and Interior Design

Wonderful pop of color. Very contemporary.

BURNER

45 NOTEWORTHY BASEMENT KITCHENETTE IDEAS TO HELP YOU ENTERTAIN IN STYLE

Three Legged Pig Design

This smart basement kitchenette even includes a small burner.

SUNNY SUITE

45 NOTEWORTHY BASEMENT KITCHENETTE IDEAS TO HELP YOU ENTERTAIN IN STYLE

Moss Building and Design|Moss Home Services

This in-law suite boasts a great kitchenette.

COLLEGE

45 NOTEWORTHY BASEMENT KITCHENETTE IDEAS TO HELP YOU ENTERTAIN IN STYLE

Charlie Allen Renovations, Inc.

Parents renovated a part of their townhouse as a small apartment for their college-age daughter–sweet!

INVITING

45 NOTEWORTHY BASEMENT KITCHENETTE IDEAS TO HELP YOU ENTERTAIN IN STYLE

Steven Dailey Construction

First thought: this kitchenette seems so warm. What a great addition to a basement. Great for guests or grabbing a quick snack while watching TV.

BEACH HOME

BASEMENT KITCHENETTE IDEAS TO HELP YOU ENTERTAIN IN STYLE

Mari Woods Kitchen Bath Home, LLC

Great bright beach home kitchenette!

MULTI-PURPOSE

45 NOTEWORTHY BASEMENT KITCHENETTE IDEAS TO HELP YOU ENTERTAIN IN STYLE

Cullum Homes Design/Build/Renovation

Washer/dryer not too far away so you can also be productive!

HIDE-AWAY

45 NOTEWORTHY BASEMENT KITCHENETTE IDEAS TO HELP YOU ENTERTAIN IN STYLE

Poggenpohl Wigmore Kitchens

Great that you can hide this neatly away.

COMPACT

45 NOTEWORTHY BASEMENT KITCHENETTE IDEAS TO HELP YOU ENTERTAIN IN STYLE

Mesh Architectures

Small and compact, but gets the job done!

CABIN CHIC

45 NOTEWORTHY BASEMENT KITCHENETTE IDEAS TO HELP YOU ENTERTAIN IN STYLE

Visbeen Architects

Beautiful basement kitchenette in this cabin off the lake. Love the color of the cabinets.

ENTERTAINMENT HAVEN

45 NOTEWORTHY BASEMENT KITCHENETTE IDEAS TO HELP YOU ENTERTAIN IN STYLE

Sebring Design Build

This looks like such a warm and welcoming space to entertain friends and family!

5. Keep to the Basics

It is tempting to try and include everything in a kitchenette, attempting to turn it into a full mini-kitchen. But instead of a full functional kitchen, you will be left with a stuffy and cluttered space that no one enjoys. Instead, keep everything to a bare minimum.

As for the appliances–no more than three or four large ones. The most important ones are a mini-fridge (or a full one if you have the space), a microwave and a coffeemaker.  If you have the space, you may be able to add a few additional small appliances.

Do not be tempted to go overboard with the cutlery.  It will make it easier to maintain the kitchenette. The same goes for food items. Keep only a few snacks, beverages and things like coffee and tea.

Keeping things simple ultimately leads to a better and more practical space. While the main kitchen is associated with lots of stuff and lots of work, the kitchenette becomes a convenient quiet sanctuary to enjoy a cup of coffee or treasured family time.

6. Blend in with the Rest of the Basement

While the kitchenette should have its own recognizable signature style, make sure it blends with the overall basement style. The transition from the rest of the space should be smooth.  Try to have one overall theme (vintage, modern, country, mid-century etc.) covering the entire basement.

Many home improvement projects today are about creating personal areas away from the everyday bustle of the house. There are renovation ideas such as man caves, kid-caves, wine cellars, personal galleries and so on. The basement kitchenette joins this list as a space designed not so much for its practical uses, but for its benefits as a personal or family retreat to relax and recharge.

This is an image roundup post, curated to showcase and promote other reputable contracting companies’ and their amazing work.  To have any of the images removed, please reach out to us and we would be happy to do so.

Other Great Articles to Read:

Basement Heating Options to Keep Your Family Warm & ComfyBasement Subfloor Options DRIcore Versus PlywoodHow To Hide Or Remove A Basement Support Post With Ideas

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