Designing a small kitchen can be challenging, but the right small kitchen ideas can make a big difference. With clever storage solutions, smart layouts, and a few visual tricks, you can create a space that feels open, organised, and stylish. Here are ten smart ways to make your compact kitchen feel bigger—without knocking down walls.
1. Take Storage to the Ceiling
Instead of letting valuable wall space go to waste, install cabinets or open shelves that extend all the way up. Store lesser-used items on the highest shelves and keep everyday essentials within easy reach.
To maximise the space, try to utilise vertical storage with tall cabinets or shelves that reach right up to the ceiling.
molly chandler, designer at Willis & Stone
2. Use Light Colours to Brighten the Space
Lighter shades reflect light, making a small kitchen feel airy and open. Opt for soft neutrals like off-white, cream or pale grey for cabinets and walls. If you want a touch of colour, sage greens or blues work well without overwhelming the space.
3. Install Open Shelving
Instead of upper cabinets that can make a space feel closed in, try open shelving. It creates a more open, spacious look while keeping frequently used items within easy reach. Just be mindful of clutter—stick to neatly arranged tableware and decorative elements.
4. Make Use of Corners
Corners are often underutilised in small kitchens. Install rotating or pull-out corner shelves to make the most of every inch.
Think carefully about the corners of the kitchen and consider corner cabinets with rotating or pull-out shelves to maximise storage in these hard-to-reach areas.
Molly chandler, designer at Willis & stone
5. Choose Space-Saving Appliances
Standard appliances can overwhelm a tiny kitchen. Instead, look for compact versions like narrow dishwashers, slimline refrigerators, and combination microwave-oven units to save space without sacrificing functionality.
6. Opt for Multi-Functional Furniture
In a small space, furniture needs to work double duty. Consider a kitchen island with built-in storage or a foldable dining table that tucks away when not in use. This keeps your space flexible and uncluttered.
7. Use Hooks, Pegboards, and Magnetic Strips
Instead of cramming everything into drawers, take advantage of wall space. Under-cabinet storage such as hooks, racks, or magnetic strips are great for hanging mugs or cooking utensils, while a pegboard can be customised to hold everything from pots and pans to measuring spoons.
8. Maximise Natural Light
If possible, increase the natural light in your kitchen with large windows, skylights or glass doors. Natural light makes a space feel more open and inviting, creating a welcoming atmosphere.
9. Choose Sleek Hardware and Minimise Decorative Elements
A cluttered design can make a small kitchen feel even smaller. Keep things simple by choosing sleek cabinetry, minimalistic hardware, and clean lines for a cohesive look.
As a general rule in a small kitchen, keep the design simple and streamlined to avoid visual clutter.
molly Chandleer, designer at Willis & Stone
10. Install a Sliding Door or Pocket Door
Traditional swing doors take up valuable space. Replacing a standard door with a sliding barn door or a pocket door frees up room for extra storage or improved movement in a tight kitchen.
When designing a small kitchen, opt for a layout that emphasises functionality and utilises every inch of available space effectively. Pay attention to traffic flow and ensure there is enough space for people to move around comfortably, especially in high-traffic areas like around the sink and stove.
molly Chandler, designer at Willis & Stone
Key Takeaways
A small kitchen doesn’t have to feel limiting. By using vertical storage, compact appliances, and clever layouts, you can create a space that’s both functional and stylish. Try mixing and matching these ideas to find what works best for your space.
What are your favourite small kitchen tricks?
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