If you are fortunate enough to have a small kitchen, you may encounter challenges in creating a functional and stylish space. However, there are several strategies to optimize the available space, transforming your kitchen from ordinary to extraordinary.
In this post, I will explore 21 effortless techniques for making your compact kitchen feel more spacious and maximizing its potential. By implementing these ideas, you can create a practical and aesthetically pleasing kitchen that will undoubtedly evoke a sense of pride.
Go Floor to Ceiling
Traditionally, kitchens have primarily featured waist-height storage cupboards with a few wall cupboards. However, the current trend is shifting towards incorporating full banks of kitchen units to create a seamless display of storage.
This innovative approach, championed by kitchen designers like Magnet Kitchens, addresses the demand to optimize home space utilization in smaller residences.
If you find yourself lacking cabinet space in your kitchen, consider utilizing the height of the room to install additional units. By strategically placing the bank of high cabinets away from natural light sources, you can ensure the room remains well-lit while effectively resolving your storage dilemmas.
Keep the Design Simple
To make a small kitchen feel larger, there are several strategies you can implement. Maximizing natural light is key, so consider incorporating large windows or skylights if possible. Additionally, utilizing a simple kitchen design with a white gloss finish can create a sense of spaciousness by reflecting and bouncing the light around the room.
In terms of design, opt for a sleek and modern aesthetic with minimal clutter to maintain a streamlined look, regardless of the kitchen’s size. To maximize storage space, explore various storage ideas such as built-in cabinets, shelves, and organizers.
If you’re looking to add some seating, consider including a small breakfast bar with stools. While it may require some creativity and compromise, a well-designed kitchen can overcome many design flaws.
By implementing these strategies and incorporating innovative design elements, you can create a highly functional and stylish kitchen space that feels bigger and more spacious.
Use Creative Storage Solutions
When it comes to solving layout issues in your simply designed kitchen and maximizing cabinet space, there are various innovative solutions available. These solutions not only increase the volume of usable space but also enhance the user-friendliness of your kitchen.
For instance, consider incorporating raised tabletop shelves throughout the room. These shelves can provide you with an additional storage surface, especially on a freestanding island or worktop.
You can utilize them to store herbs, jars, utensils, and more, without compromising the space underneath. By doubling up on your storage in previously unused areas, you can optimize every inch of your kitchen.
Adding an Island
When it comes to adding an island unit to a small kitchen, you might initially think it’s near impossible. However, small kitchens come in various shapes and sizes, and when designing an open plan layout, the absence of many walls can actually work to your advantage.
While some designers opt for a simple “L” shaped design with wall cupboards, incorporating an island can truly transform the kitchen’s ambiance.
First and foremost, it effectively differentiates and zones the area, clearly defining it as the kitchen space for all who enter. Moreover, it allows for a more optimal layout, providing an additional line of counter space opposite the wall of cabinets. Furthermore, an island offers ample storage and can even serve as a seating area.
Before you know it, your once modest-sized kitchen has evolved into the lively hub of your home, where cooking, socializing, and entertaining converge. It’s highly recommended to thoroughly research your options before consulting with a kitchen planner to make the most informed decision.
Maximize Cupboard Space
When it comes to small kitchens, maximizing storage capacity is key. It’s important to assess your current storage solutions and consider implementing effective strategies to optimize space.
Utilize various storage solutions such as drawers, racks, pull-out larders, boxes, and spice racks to ensure efficient organization. Customizing storage options based on your specific needs is highly recommended.
For instance, if you frequently use a wide range of spices and herbs, allocating ample storage space for them will help maintain tidiness and easy accessibility. Take the opportunity to declutter areas in your small kitchen before implementing improved organization techniques.
Remember, the key to creating a functional and well-organized small kitchen lies in thoughtful planning and effective utilization of available storage options.
Consider Hidden Storage
The utilization of this innovative solution is highly recommended for small kitchens looking to optimize their limited worktop space for food preparation. Imagine the convenience of hidden cupboards seamlessly unveiling themselves from behind wall units, providing easy access to kitchen knives, various spices, oils, condiments, and even a refreshing glass of wine, all at the touch of a button.
I have personally witnessed the remarkable functionality of these cabinets and can assure you that they not only live up to their appearance but also offer a safe storage solution for keeping knives out of reach from children. Their practicality and efficiency make them an excellent addition to any small kitchen seeking to maximize functionality and organization.
Add a Folding Table
The Magnet Table Plus is an essential addition to any small kitchen. This folding table top cleverly conceals itself within a highly-functional wall cabinet.
If you possess a smaller galley kitchen or lack sufficient floor space for a permanent table solution, simply mount the Magnet Table Plus on your walls. Instantly, you will create a versatile space for dining and entertaining.
For a complete look, consider adding folding chairs conveniently stored on the wall or a couple of stacking stools that neatly fit in the corner of the room. This innovative solution allows you to maximize the space in your smaller home, enabling it to work harder and more effectively for you and your family.
Hidden Worktop
The addition of a rollout cupboard provides easy access to contents and doubles the food preparation area by incorporating a worktop. This innovative solution is particularly beneficial for smaller kitchens where extra worktop space is essential.
Even slightly larger kitchens can reap the benefits of this idea, making it a versatile solution for all. Furthermore, the accessibility of this feature extends to younger family members, adding to its practicality and appeal.
Pop Up Storage
Introducing our latest innovation: the pop-up shelf. Designed to optimize space utilization and functionality, this ingenious solution is perfect for smaller worktops.
When not in use, simply push down on the top shelf to securely hide the contents beneath, freeing up valuable space for essential food preparation. Keep your small kitchen clutter-free with ease.
This versatile addition is particularly well-suited for storing and concealing your kettle and tea-making essentials. No more compromising on counter space or struggling with clutter. Experience the genius of this space-saving solution, tailor-made for compact living environments.
Add More Worktop Space with a Hidden Sink
One great idea to optimize a small kitchen is the Illusion Sink from Magnet Kitchens. This innovative sink features a push-down tap and a removable panel. When not in use, simply push down the tap and slide the lid into place. This clever design provides extra worktop space, making your kitchen appear clean and organized.
The Illusion Sink is not limited to small kitchens; it can also be a practical addition to larger kitchen spaces. Its glossy finish and sleek, minimal design add a touch of elegance. With its multifunctionality and aesthetic appeal, the Illusion Sink is a perfect choice for those looking to maximize the functionality and style of their kitchen.
What Color Makes a Small Kitchen Look Bigger?
The impact of color choice on perceived kitchen size depends on the amount of natural light. Opting for lighter colors can create an illusion of spaciousness, while darker colors can enhance coziness but may also diminish the perceived room size. Ultimately, it is crucial to consider the balance between color and natural light when designing a small kitchen space.
How do you make a Small Kitchen look Elegant?
When it comes to creating elegance, opinions may vary, but a good starting point is to declutter the room and keep only the essential items on the countertops. Additionally, consider choosing a stylish and soft gray wall and cabinet color. It’s also important to prioritize high-quality flooring, such as luxury vinyl, and incorporate soft lighting throughout the space. These thoughtful touches can go a long way in enhancing the overall aesthetic and creating a truly elegant atmosphere.
Add a Designer Kitchen Wallpaper Splashback
For small kitchens seeking a touch of whimsy and charm, consider incorporating kitchen splashback wallpaper. An excellent option to consider is the Cactus design from Lime Lace. This revolutionary wallpaper not only adds a unique flair but is also effortless to apply. Notably, it provides added practicality as it is water and fireproof, making it suitable for use behind your stove. Embrace this innovative solution for a stylish and functional kitchen aesthetic.
Add Lots More Glassware
Adding more glassware to a small kitchen can have several benefits. One of the key advantages is that the presence of glass allows light to travel through, resulting in a brighter and more spacious appearance. This added brightness can make the kitchen feel more inviting and create a sense of openness. Additionally, the glassware can add a touch of elegance and sparkle to the overall aesthetic of the kitchen.
Maximize Floor Space
To create a sense of spaciousness, it is recommended to maintain an uncluttered floor and utilize cabinets and accessories with legs. This will draw the eye towards the walls, ultimately creating the illusion of a more expansive space. It is advisable to make use of additional storage solutions and optimize the arrangement of furniture to further enhance the overall appearance and functionality of the room.
What if you don’t have space for a kitchen island?
For smaller kitchens with limited space, consider utilizing a smaller, portable kitchen table that can be easily moved between areas. This solution provides the added benefit of creating additional preparation and storage space, enhancing overall functionality and convenience.
Color Coordinate your Accessories
When selecting a color for your kitchen accessories, it is recommended to choose a light and bright color. This will help create a sense of brightness and spaciousness in the room, making the interior feel more expansive and welcoming.
Continue the Wall Colour to the Ceiling
I would highly recommend using a lighter color for the ceiling to avoid creating a sense of oppression in the room. On the other hand, if you opt for a light color, extending it from the walls to the ceiling will create a sense of uniformity and make the ceiling appear taller. This approach not only improves the overall aesthetics of the room but also enhances the feeling of space and height.
Add Reflective Paint
Natural light is highly valued in small kitchens due to its ability to create an expansive and airy atmosphere. To maximize the benefits of natural light, consider incorporating reflective paint in your kitchen design. Not only does it add a sparkling touch to the room, but it also helps to amplify the flood of natural light, resulting in an even brighter and more inviting space.
Use Suspension Lights over a Table or Breakfast Bar
Suspension lights offer an excellent lighting solution for small kitchens, especially when you require focused lighting over a breakfast bar or kitchen island. Their sleek design and versatility make them a popular choice among homeowners. Furthermore, these lights provide ample illumination to enhance the functionality and aesthetics of your kitchen space.
Hang plants from the Ceiling
Including plants in your small kitchen can do amazing things for your wellbeing and mental health. One great way to incorporate them is by hanging them in hangers from the ceiling. You might find this DIY plant hanger particularly appealing as it works well in any kitchen and is also inexpensive to make.
Final Verdict
Creating a spacious and open kitchen space doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With these simple and effective tips, you can transform your kitchen on a budget and with minimal effort. These 21 enhancements can create an airy and bright space where you can do everything from cooking to entertaining in style. So, go ahead and tackle these ideas – you won’t believe the difference they can make in your kitchen!
