Having a smaller kitchen can often make you feel like you have to sacrifice style for space. It can be difficult to fit everything you want or need into the smaller space, so it’s understandable that you might feel like your small kitchen needs to prioritise functionality over style. However, this isn’t always the case. With some careful planning and design inspiration, you can have the best of both worlds, a small kitchen that is well designed and functional. Read on for our top 5 kitchen design ideas for a small kitchen.
1. Galley kitchens
Galley kitchens are a fantastic kitchen style to utilise if you don’t have a lot of space in your home or you’re working with a narrow, snug space. Also known as corridor kitchens, this is the perfect way to make use of small spaces. There’s no troublesome corner cabinetry to get in your way, just clean use of available space that can make the area seem bigger. Make use of natural light to help make your kitchen seem bigger than it is.
2. Open shelves and glass cabinets
Open shelving and glass cabinets are the perfect way to add depth to your kitchen and help make the space seem bigger than it is. Closed cabinetry, especially in a small kitchen can make it appear like the walls are closer than they are, which is the last thing you want in a small space. Utilising a combination of closed cabinetry and open shelving helps prevent this from happening, especially if adding glass doors and open shelves to the top half of your cabinets.
3. Utilise wall space in a small kitchen
When available space is at a premium in your kitchen, utilising your wall space in clever and efficient ways will help to utilise the space that you do have. From creating extra-high cabinetry on an unused wall to adding in some stylish shelving or hooks for your utensils, utilising your wall space can help create a lot more usable area in your kitchen.
4. Consider mint green for your colour choice
Small kitchens by definition tend to feel cramped or chaotic, especially if you’re trying to include all of your appliances and utensils. It can get cramped and stuffy fast. Help prevent this from happening by painting your small kitchen mint green. Mint green is a soothing colour that promotes rest and relaxation and can help to offset that chaotic feel that is so common in smaller kitchens. Try blending in some other neutral colours for a comforting palette that will make your kitchen seem calm and relaxed.
5. Hide your appliances in a breakfast cupboard
There is no denying that storing your appliances on your kitchen bench can lead to your small kitchen feeling even more cramped due to lack of space. Help avoid your surfaces looking cluttered by storing your kitchen appliances such as the toaster, kettle and coffee machine away in a breakfast cupboard. Simply open the cupboard to your ready to use appliances.
Small kitchens can be both stylish and functional with some careful kitchen designs and good use of available space. If you’re looking for new cabinetry or furniture for your small kitchen we can help. Get in touch with us today for a free quote on your cabinets.
6. Find kitchen storage opportunities
Consider installing toe-kick drawers at the bottom of your cabinets for extra kitchen storage that doesn’t intrude into your space. These hidden drawers can be the perfect spot for storing less frequently used items or large flatware. Integrating multi-tiered drawers within your existing cabinetry can dramatically increase your storage capacity, allowing for an organised and clutter-free environment.
7. Hanging storage for pots and pans
Utilising vertical space is a game-changer in small kitchen designs. Hanging pots and pans frees up valuable cabinet space and adds a touch of personality and accessibility to your kitchen. Install a ceiling-mounted rack or use the side of a cabinet for a hanging solution. This approach not only makes your kitchenware easily accessible but also serves as a decorative element, adding character and warmth to your kitchen.
8. Pantry organisation tips
A well-organised pantry is essential for maximising efficiency in a small kitchen. Use clear containers for dry goods to eliminate bulky packaging and make it easy to see when you’re running low on essentials. Incorporate lazy Susans for corners and unreachable spaces to ensure every item is within reach. Door-mounted racks can hold spices, oils and smaller items, making the most of every available space.
9. Minimalistic design
Embracing minimalistic kitchen design ideas can make your area appear larger and more open. Choose sleek, handleless cabinets to create a smooth, uninterrupted look. Opt for a monochromatic colour scheme with subtle variations in textures to add depth without overwhelming the space. This approach can enhance the visual appeal of your kitchen and encourage a clutter-free environment.
10. Utilise small appliances
When considering small kitchen ideas, it is important to select appliances that complement its scale. Compact, multi-functional appliances can perform the tasks of their larger counterparts without occupying as much space. Consider an under-counter refrigerator, a mini dishwasher or a two-burner stove to conserve space. Innovative solutions like fold-away or pull-out counters provide extra work surfaces when needed and tuck away neatly. This strategic choice of appliances and features can help with small kitchen organisation.