The Best Apartment Size Refrigerators and Organization Tips
Today’s design topic is a specific one pertaining to kitchen design. I had a friend ask me if I had any recommendations for an apartment sized refrigerator, only for me to realize- I have and use two on the regular. One lives in our basement bar, which we primarily utilize as a beverage fridge… and the other lives at our Tuesday Made office in the kitchenette. Ironically, they’re both the same cream color. I would actually recommend both of these refrigerators for different scenarios. Obviously there are pros and cons for each. I thought it may be helpful to dissect this topic, if you’re also designing for a small space, have limited space in the kitchen, or are on the hunt for a smaller scale fridge. Click through for my top two recommendations, the best apartment size refrigerators, a side-by-side comparison, along with some easy organization finds to maximize the storage capacity in your existing fridge!
My Refrigerator Criteria – Buy Guide
As a designer, I prefer either a panel-ready appliance or a refrigerator that intentionally matches the kitchen palette. If you’re spending money to renovate a kitchen, appliances can quickly make or break the overall aesthetic. Of all the major brands, the two apartment sized fridges I felt had the best aesthetic (and color selections) were from Smeg and Big Chill… two reputable brands. Of course I also had a criteria for functionality and reliability. Here are some questions I consider when purchasing a refrigerator (of any size):
- Does it fit my kitchen dimensions?
- Is it counter depth or standard?
- Does it align with the kitchen aesthetic? Color, metal, hardware, form, etc.
- Does it have good reviews? Is it reliable?
- How will it function or be used in my space?
- What features will I need or use most often?
- Does it open directionally, and can the door swing be specified or changed as needed?
- Are customizations available? Color, hardware, panel ready, door swing, etc.
- Does it have a warranty?
- Can I get it into my space? Dimensions can fit down staircases, turn corners, etc.
- Does it have an ice maker?
- Does it have water filtration?
- Is it energy efficient?
- What is the noise level?
Smeg Refrigerator
The Smeg is a great choice if you’re looking for a good compact fridge. It’s one of the smaller models for an apartment size refrigerator. It has reversible doors, an energy star rating, adjustable glass shelves, and is ideal for smaller living spaces. While it’s a very energy-efficient fridge, I think the freezer compartment is the biggest drawback for me. It’s a top-freezer refrigerator, but the freezer section does not have a separate door. It’s eye level (which is nice), but you still have to open the main door to access the small freezer door. The freezer also has a tendency to become icy, which requires attention from time to time. Take a peek inside and check out the different features for this compact option below… it’s minimal, functional, and aesthetically pleasing. Please, no judgement on the contents of our office fridge, ha! It needs a restock.
Big Chill Refrigerator
The Big Chill 30″ Classic Range has a lot of special features. I love that it can be totally customized- from the hardware to the paint color. I was able to perfectly color match my kitchen cabinets when upgrading the cabinet doors. It was the best fit for our basement bar because of its adjustable shelves, built-in ice maker, digital temperature controls, and storage space… making it ideal for a large beverage fridge. If we wanted to use it for food, it also has handy crisper drawers, a bottom freezer, and easy access to storage organizers. I also have to mention Big Chill’s customer service- they’re fantastic. Should we ever need anything (even outside of the warranty period), I have zero doubts it would be an issue. They’re top notch… and I’m picky about that- especially after experiencing issues with my GE Cafe Range. Here’s a peek inside…
Smeg v Big Chill Comparison
Not all apartment refrigerators, are created equal, but I honestly love these two. Here is a quick side-by-side comparison of the two, strictly based on specs. They both have pros and cons, but if I had to choose only one (my personal preference)… I’d go with Big Chill. It is a bit larger, has a full size separate freezer, ice maker, and is available in more colors & finishes- with customizable hardware.
| BIG CHILL | SMEG |
| 29 7/8″ W x 30 3/8″ D x 67” H | 23 5/8″ W x 31 1/16″ D x 59 1/16″ H |
| Total Capacity- 18.7 Cubic Feet | Total Capacity- 9.92 Cubic Feet |
| 4 Half-Width Adjustable Glass Shelves | 3 Adjustable Glass Shelves |
| Slide-Out Freezer Basket | No Freezer Organization |
| Ice Maker | No Ice Maker |
| Interior Light | Interior Light |
| Energy Consumption- 553 kWh/year | Energy Consumption- 230 kWh/year |
| Voltage- 115V, 60Hz, AC only, 15 or 20 amp | Voltage- 120 V |
| 1 Year Parts & Labor Warranty | 1 Year Parts & Labor Warranty |
| Multiple Hardware Choices | One Hardware Color |
| 100+ Color Options and Custom Colors | 15+ Color Options |
| Price: $5,895 | Price: $2,499 |
Organization Favorites
Click directly on each organizer below to be redirected.
We split a CSA box with our neighbors this summer, so many of these organizers have come in handy for sorting, organizing, and keeping food items from our farm box fresh.
Where Does An Apartment Sized Fridge Make Sense?
If you’re contemplating when to opt for an apartment fridge over a standard size refrigerator, here are some interior scenarios for tight spaces where they make perfect sense…
- Small Apartments
- Small Kitchens
- Kitchens with a Lower Ceiling Height (like basements)
- Home Bars
- Tiny Homes
- Kitchenettes
- Dorm Rooms
- In Law Suites
- Workspaces or Studios
- Converted Sheds
- Shipping Container Homes
FAQ
The best way is to floor plan in advance, take detailed measurements, tape it out for a visual, and compare capacity to your existing fridge. You should also consider your household size. If you’re using the refrigerator as a second fridge, that might also influence your decision on size. Choosing a major appliance is a big decision, but stick to reputable brands, double check specs, consider your aesthetic, and you’ll land on the right refrigerator.
Oddly, not really. We’re a two person household, so we always have plenty of room in our main fridge. The freezer does hold a few frozen pizzas and the occasional pint of ice cream, but that’s it. We hardly ever buy refrigerated or frozen goods in bulk, so we just haven’t had a need for extra space. It is nice to know that’s an option, should we need it though! That also reassures me we landed on the right fridge for our main kitchen. It’s the perfect size!
Related
Looking for similar posts on appliances, organization, and kitchen functionality? I’ll link some of my favorites for you below. I always like to deep clean our kitchen, organize, and get things in order this time of year!
- An Honest Review of the Big Chill Classic Range
- How to Install a Hidden Kitchen Trash Can
- How to Replace & Upgrade Your Cabinet Doors
- Our Water Filtration System
- An Honest Review of the GE Cafe Range
- Kitchen Design : Panel Ready Appliances
- Refrigerator (& Kitchen) Organization
- Design Discussion : Hardwoods in the Kitchen
- Spice Rack Organization DIY
- 5 Things Every Kitchen Needs
I hope this is helpful if and when you’re in the market for a smaller fridge! Does anyone need help shopping for other home appliances? I’d be happy to weigh in, as I know they’re a big investment. We’ve obviously been working on our outdoor kitchen build, so we just solidified a built-in grill and outdoor refrigerator. Here’s to a productive week ahead! I think I’m going to begin transitioning our home for fall this week. Temperatures are supposed to dip, and I’m embracing it!