Hmmm, I initially had same idea as bigreader about fridge placement where microwave shelves are, but I doubt there's ample width for a fridge there. Then there's issue with fridge door opening into same area as that door that we are wondering about. What size is your fridge? It sounds like you are considering placing the fridge on the carpeting with the back in the dining/living space. Is that correct? It's generally not a good idea to place a fridge on carpet in case of leakage and subsequent damage to the carpet.

Do you own the apartment/unit? If so, this may give you more options. If you were able to remove the bench/cabinet to the right of your stove and the overhead cabinets there, that could be enough space for a fridge. But you would lose food preparation and storage space. As has been suggested, the wall opposite the stove could accomodate more overhead cupboards.

It would be helpful to know what that door is for, the size of your fridge, and if you are able to do renovation to the apartment.

Another idea is to camouflage the back of fridge with a room divider. It would be very important to consider the sturdiness of divider (so it can't topple over), the material the divider is made of so it presents no fire hazard in proximity to the fridge, and not place it too close to back of fridge as the fridge needs adequate ventilation. It is best to read any warning info on back of fridge and/or read the appliance manual, or consult licensed electrician to ensure safety of this.

Hi bigreader, LesleyH, annb1997 and all,

Thank you for your comments and questions.

The dodgy cupboard is a known problem. My real estate is so bad I'm afraid they'll put it on backwards if they try to fix it with their chosen cheap fixer team. It's been like that for three years. The trouble is that they literally just put stuff into the wall without a care for where the support beams are, if they secure something to a beam it is an accident. My towel racks wouldn't hold paper towel when I first moved in for this reason.

The mystery door is a laundry the size of a large coffin.

I can't change the carpet, unfortunately.

The fridge won't fit where the microwave is, that space is barely wide enough for an esky I'm afraid. Fridge is a standard large single sided dual freezer and fridge-freezer door down low and the fridge above.

Okay, if you are game to place fridge at end of bench (where wonky cabinet is), and place an appropriate room divider behind it, then it would simply appear as if entry hallway was longer than it is. IF any damage occurs to carpet, then you could deal with that when you move. Sorry to hear the maintenance team isn't up to scratch. Hope your next place is better! Best wishes, Gareth.

Thanks everyone. It's a good feeling to know you all feel it's a dilemma too and it's not just me!

HI,

I agree with bigreader. The microwave recess is the simplest place.

I would be looking at a new fridge eg a Samsung, Hisense or Midea fridge freezer that comes in 550mm wide sizes and should fit. You can pick them up for around $500. If it is smaller than that there are narrower such as the Westinghouse at 495mm.

I'd be having a chat with the owner about the cost and see if you could do a deal if you want to stay eg extend / renew lease if he pays.

Cheers