In a small kitchen, you never seem to have enough space: not enough space to work, not enough space for storage.
But if you have just a few feet where you can fit in a kitchen cart, you can effectively double both.
If chosen carefully, a cart can blend in with your existing kitchen cabinets and furniture so that it doesn't need to look like an afterthought.
Whether your greatest need is for cabinet-type storage, or drawer space, you'll be able to find a kitchen cart island that suits your needs.
There are styles available with shelves on the ends for cookbooks, or spice racks to keep your cooking spices handy.
You can get one with a butcher block top, granite, marble or laminate.
If you need to be able to move your cart around, look for easy rolling wheels or casters.
If your cart will stay in one place permanently, you can take the casters off for better stability.
While looks are important, quality and durability should also be considered before you make a purchase.
A kitchen cart is an investment that will enhance your kitchen's usability and, as such, it should be built to last for years, if not decades.
It should be strong enough that you won't be worried that it will break down if you put something heavy on it.
It should be sturdy enough that you aren't worried that the screws will vibrate out while you are mixing up the cake batter.
Any surface that is used for food preparation needs to be able to be sanitized and cleaned properly.
A kitchen cart made from pressed wood that will delaminate when it gets wet won't be a good candidate for working kitchen islands and carts.
If you will be preparing food directly on the cart top, opt for easy care laminate, or a stone such as granite or marble.
Even a properly made butcher block top can be cleaned and sanitized without it falling apart.