How to install a mini kitchen in your garage

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Introduction

Whether you use your garage as a workshop, guest space, entertainment area, or rental unit, a mini kitchen can make it far more functional. Installing a small, well-equipped kitchen in your garage allows you to prepare food, store drinks, and wash up without constantly going back into the main house. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about how to install a mini kitchen in your garage, including planning, plumbing, electrical work, and space-saving tips.

Why Add a Mini Kitchen to Your Garage

A mini kitchen is a great addition for many reasons:

  • Convenience – Prepare snacks, drinks, and meals without leaving the garage.
  • Entertaining – Perfect for game rooms, parties, and family gatherings.
  • Guest accommodation – Ideal for converted garage guest suites or rental units.
  • Workshop support – Have easy access to water for cleaning tools and hands.
  • Increased property value – Makes your garage a more versatile and attractive space.

Step-by-Step Guide to Installing a Mini Kitchen

1. Plan Your Kitchen Layout

Before buying appliances or materials, decide how you want your kitchen to function:

  • Straight-line layout – Best for small garages; everything along one wall.
  • L-shape layout – Offers more counter space and a small dining nook.
  • Galley layout – Two parallel counters; efficient for cooking.

Key elements to include:

  • Sink and faucet.
  • Countertop workspace.
  • Storage cabinets or shelves.
  • Mini fridge (or under-counter fridge).
  • Microwave or small cooktop.

Tip: Measure your garage carefully and create a scaled floor plan to ensure everything fits comfortably.

2. Check Permits and Building Codes

You may need permits for:

  • Plumbing – For installing a sink or connecting to water lines.
  • Electrical – For new outlets, lighting, or appliance circuits.
  • Ventilation – If installing a stove or cooktop.

Contact your local building authority to find out the requirements in your area.

3. Plan Plumbing Connections

If you’re adding a sink, you’ll need both water supply and drainage:

  • Water supply – Can be connected from existing house plumbing or an outdoor hose bib.
  • Drainage – May connect to the home’s waste line or use a gray water tank if allowed.

Hire a licensed plumber for safety and compliance, especially if your garage is detached from the house.

4. Plan Electrical Needs

A mini kitchen may require:

  • Dedicated outlet for the fridge.
  • GFCI outlets near the sink.
  • Outlet for microwave, cooktop, or toaster oven.
  • Adequate lighting above counters.

Since kitchens have higher electrical loads, an electrician may need to run a separate circuit from your breaker panel.

5. Choose Appliances and Fixtures

Opt for compact, energy-efficient models:

  • Mini fridge – Under-counter style to save space.
  • Microwave or toaster oven – For heating and baking.
  • Single- or two-burner cooktop – Induction or electric for safety.
  • Small sink – Stainless steel is durable and easy to clean.

Pro Tip: Look for combination appliances like a microwave-convection oven to save space.

6. Install Cabinets and Storage

Storage keeps your mini kitchen functional and clutter-free:

  • Base cabinets – House the sink, hide plumbing, and provide storage.
  • Wall cabinets – Store dishes, dry goods, and utensils.
  • Open shelving – Adds easy-to-reach storage for everyday items.

For garages with moisture issues, choose moisture-resistant materials like PVC or metal cabinets.

7. Install the Sink and Plumbing

  • Shut off the water supply before beginning.
  • Position the sink in your countertop cutout.
  • Connect the faucet to the water supply lines.
  • Install a P-trap and connect the drain to your garage’s plumbing or gray water system.
  • Turn on water and check for leaks.

If you’re not confident with plumbing work, have a professional complete this step.

8. Install Countertops

Countertops provide workspace for preparing food:

  • Laminate – Budget-friendly and easy to install.
  • Butcher block – Adds warmth and can be DIY cut to size.
  • Stainless steel – Durable and easy to clean.

Secure countertops to cabinets with screws from underneath for a clean look.

9. Add Appliances and Lighting

  • Position your fridge, microwave, and cooktop according to your plan.
  • Plug appliances into GFCI-protected outlets.
  • Install task lighting under cabinets for a well-lit workspace.
  • Add overhead lighting to illuminate the entire kitchen area.

10. Decorate and Personalize

Make your garage kitchen inviting and functional:

  • Add a backsplash for easy cleaning and style.
  • Use colorful dish towels and countertop appliances for personality.
  • Add hooks for mugs, utensils, or potholders.
  • Include a small rolling cart for extra storage and mobility.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  1. Ignoring ventilation
    • Mistake: Installing a stove without proper ventilation.
    • Solution: Use a range hood or vent fan to remove cooking odors and moisture.
  2. Overloading electrical circuits
    • Mistake: Plugging multiple high-power appliances into one outlet.
    • Solution: Have an electrician install dedicated circuits for major appliances.
  3. Poor layout
    • Mistake: Placing the sink, fridge, and cooktop far apart.
    • Solution: Follow the “kitchen work triangle” rule for efficiency.
  4. Skipping moisture protection
    • Mistake: Using regular wood cabinets in a humid garage.
    • Solution: Choose moisture-resistant materials or seal all exposed surfaces.
  5. Forgetting storage
    • Mistake: Installing appliances without planning for where utensils, dishes, and food will go.
    • Solution: Incorporate storage into your design from the start.

Extra Mini Kitchen Tips & Hacks

  • Add a coffee station for a personal touch—perfect for guests or morning garage work sessions.
  • Use fold-down counters to save space when the kitchen isn’t in use.
  • Opt for modular cabinets that can be rearranged if your needs change.
  • Install a small dishwasher drawer if space and plumbing allow.
  • Related read: Check out our guide on turning your garage into a guest bedroom for combined living and kitchen spaces.

Conclusion

Installing a mini kitchen in your garage can dramatically increase its usability—whether for entertaining, hosting guests, or simply making your workshop more comfortable. The key is careful planning: ensure you have the right permits, functional plumbing and electrical systems, and a space-saving layout that works for your needs. With smart design and compact appliances, even a small corner of your garage can become a fully functional kitchen.

Pro Tip: Start with essential elements—sink, counter space, and fridge—then add extras like cooktops, coffee stations, or storage as your budget allows.