A small kitchen does not have to feel like it is too cramped or that it limits what you can do in there too much. In fact, with the right design choices, even the most compact of kitchens can be stylish, functional and surprisingly spacious, too. The secret is to make the most of every single inch available to you while also creating a layout that feels open and smooth to use whether you are cooking or hanging out with friends.
Whether you’re updating an older kitchen or planning a complete kitchen remodeling project, here are some smart design tricks to make the most of the small space available to you.
Maximize vertical space
When floor space is limited, it pays to think upwards. Tall cabinets that extend to the ceiling provide valuable extra storage while helping the room feel more streamlined. Upper shelving can also be used to store items that are not needed every day.
Other ways to utilize vertical space include:
- Wall-mounted racks
- Hanging storage systems
- Open shelving
- Magnetic knife strips
Making use of wall space helps keep countertops clear and reduces visual clutter.
Choose light colors
Colors can have a much bigger impact on how spacious a room feels than you might think, so it is a good idea to go with light shades like white, cream, soft gray or pale beige if you want your kitchen to feel spacious because they will reflect the light more for an airier appearance. Dark colors can look stylish in the kitchen sure, but they do make the paace feel more enclosed unless they are used sparingly.
Light cabinetry, walls and countertops will maximize the sense of space and even if your square footage is miniscule, it will not feel that way, I promise you.
Keep countertops clear
Clutter is one of the quickest ways to make a small kitchen feel crowded. Try to limit the number of items stored on countertops by finding dedicated storage for:
- Small appliances
- Utensils
- Cookbooks
- Food containers
The more visible worktop space you have, the larger the room will appear. A clean countertop can create the illusion of extra space without moving a single wall.
Use smart storage solutions
If your kitchen is small, then it is really important that you take the time to hide as much of your clutter away as possible, or the space could end up feeling cramped. Modern storage systems that can really help in small kitchens, in particular, include:
- Pull-out pantry units
- Corner cabinet organizers
- Drawer dividers
- Deep drawers
- Under-sink storage systems
These solutions are great for improving accessibility while also making it so much easier to organize your kitchen and keep it clear, and that is vital to the good functioning of your small kitchen.
Select space-saving appliances
Appliances take up a considerable amount of room in any kitchen. Compact or integrated appliances can help free up valuable space while maintaining functionality. Slimline dishwashers, smaller refrigerators, and combination appliances are often excellent choices for compact kitchens. Modern designs offer plenty of performance without requiring oversized footprints. Bigger is not always better when working with limited space.
Small kitchen? Not a problem!
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