Three ways to add counter space to a kitchen

You can build a shelf to get your microwave off the counter, that will clear up counter space. You could build fold-down surfaces that will be out of the way but when you need them they will be there. Or you could make pull out surfaces also that will work the same at the fold-down surfaces. You could also get a large cutting board or plywood to put over your sink or stove that will add counter space also.