The niche under the windows in some old apartments was a natural refrigerator invented in Khrushchev's times for the winter, which was designed to help the population with small incomes. Although the “Khrushchevs” were conceived as temporary housing for the builders of communism, we live in them to this day. Often, repairs have already been done right away, but what to do with this niche is not clear. The material shows 5 ways to remake the "Khrushchev refrigerator".
1. Convert into a wardrobe
The simplest idea is a cabinet under the windowsill. The basis for it is already there, it remains to think over the shelves and doors, as well as close up the ventilation hole and insulate the niche under the window. Doors can be not only hinged. One of the popular solutions is sliding doors. In terms of functionality, they practically do not differ from ordinary doors, but they significantly save space. You can also try drawers. This is more ergonomic and convenient, because in order to get an object standing at the far wall, you do not have to bend over or squat down in search of what you need. It is enough to pull out the drawer, pull out the jar or package, push it back.
2. Install a radiator missing there for obvious reasons
Advantages of installing a radiator: due to the niche, the battery will not take up space in the corner, furniture can be installed in its place, the outer wall is closed with a decorative screen, which significantly improves the interior of the kitchen without a flaunting battery. It is better to carry out the transfer outside the heating season. During the work, it is necessary to dismantle the old doors and shelves, insulate the opening from the outside and from the inside and finish the pipes to the place where the battery is installed. To prevent open PVC pipes from spoiling the design, lay the grooves inside the brickwork or concrete slab.
3. Install household appliances
It can be a washing machine, because the issue of its placement in a small apartment is always acute. Prefer a narrow model and place it under the windowsill. The second option is a dishwasher. The vacant opening under the window can open up the possibility of placing a built-in dishwasher with a beautiful facade. In the remaining space, you can install a small cabinet for storing detergents. Another great option is the oven. The main thing is that the equipment should be electric and fit in size.
4. Install a worktop above the niche
You can leave a niche by placing a worktop on top. Then in the former "Khrushchev refrigerator" you can organize a storage area for whatever you want, a trash can, or - again - install something from technology.
5. Make a coffee table or bar counter
The most life hacking option, in our opinion. Moreover, the table under the window is one of the most top solutions in such modern interior styles as Scandinavian, loft, Provence.