You could use an uplifting blue, such as Bright Skies in otherwise white small kitchen design or, if you’re feeling more ambitious, try a soft tonal checkerboard effect or soft wavy lines in different sheen levels of the same colour. Marianne also suggests combining colours in bands and blocks across the walls and ceiling if you have white, grey or natural wood units.
According to the colour professional, glossy ceilings are becoming a big trend, too. And they do look amazing – but only if the surface you are painting is really smooth and you have all the right tools for how to paint a ceiling.
” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/vP.3oGVnE2PstQ5NuE5gLg–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTk2MA–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/ideal_home_591/b9f43508e013e7be350e5d6ecebfd8eb class=caas-img data-headline=”Lead the eye up with a painted ceiling”> Whether it’s big or small, we all want our kitchen to look beautiful. However, as the most dynamic room in the home, functionality is just as important as looks. Think about how you use your kitchen day to day and what works and doesn’t work.
‘Small kitchen design typically has to work twice as hard due to the space constraints,’ comments Ben from Kitchen Makers. ‘Planning is therefore all-important to make the most of your space, so consider how you cook and the equipment, crockery, and types of food you want to store.’
Ben goes on to say that keen cooks tend to focus on smart kitchen storage to store cookware and maximise counter space for food preparation. But if you prefer simple fresh food, ensuring you have enough room for a generous fridge may feel more important.
” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/ir4YdLoGgy3.2Yf5wR1sKg–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTk2MA–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/ideal_home_591/af8b1a1edc5c0288991aa2eaed8a2fbf class=caas-img data-headline=”Think about how you use the space”> Art can often feel like a finishing touch that is designed for a living room or bedroom, but it can actually work well in a kitchen too. Small cooking areas don’t have too much potential for countertop accessories that won’t clutter the space, so making use of the wall space will make a kitchen feel like home.
Whether it’s a gallery wall that creates a focal point or a singular piece of art above a sink, it’s a handy way of adding personality to a small area.
” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/6B7uKsMLRG23CWYsESJTug–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTk2MA–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/ideal_home_591/7de2136d7c571827bde9830746d0f909 class=caas-img data-headline=”Don’t forget to add art”> Carefully selected tiles are your secret weapon when designing or updating small kitchens. ‘Matt tiles in light, muted and natural tones or highly reflective gloss tiles are great ways of creating a sense of space,’ says Adrian Blundell, Production Director, Craven Dunnill Jackfield. Steer away from small or heavily patterned tiles, as while they can create a striking feature wall, they’ll likely overpower a small space.
‘Mixed media, including combinations of ceramic and stone are becoming increasingly popular to create contemporary-inspired geometric layouts, perfect for modern kitchen ideas.’
” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/BP7la7VyHQ.hRN9QZAFWeA–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTk2MA–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/ideal_home_591/c929c2b3bad7e5aca56a21b79c0aac7d class=caas-img data-headline=”Select tiles in soothing natural tones”> If you’re tight on space, why not let the walls do the talking? Lisa Slack, Head of Product, Thomas Sanderson suggests using a limewash finish on your walls. ‘The stone-like effect allows your kitchen to adopt some texture and project some warmth,’ she comments.
Then, you could always add a bookshelf to your kitchen wall and fill it with cookbooks, pots and pans. The open shelves against the textured wall will give a rustic feel to the small kitchens and distract from the lack of space.
” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/Cx69ZwTKOolvJlkRRo97Xg–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTk2MA–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/ideal_home_591/e1f8905b1805ca13f7fcaba84c10b84c class=caas-img data-headline=”Create depth with textured walls”> If you feel like your kitchen is overwhelmed by an abundance of cupboard doors, it might be time to rethink them entirely. Cupboard curtains are a stylish storage hack that works perfectly in traditional kitchens to keep clutter at bay, as well as add a homely touch.
You can DIY them yourself by purchasing offcut linen or have them professionally made in a pattern of your choosing. Either way, the effect will add interest to a small space and make it easy to hide away pots and pans.
” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/UKRDTuAcbweF4Exm8WONUw–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTk2MA–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/ideal_home_591/140b7eba5cca6e40332c815f031951d2 class=caas-img data-headline=”Rethink cupboard doors”> ‘Whatever type of cook you are the aesthetic is important,’ says Ben from Kitchen Makers. ‘Unfussy designs with clean lines tend to work best in these types of spaces, however, you can add a touch of luxury and style by specifying more decorative handles or a statement backsplash and good kitchen lighting.’ ” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/a.9Vf_iDC8H4.aXVdcrFOw–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTk2MA–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/ideal_home_591/a675123d020a7d827af9d3351e5bf99a class=caas-img data-headline=”Add luxurious small details”>
Don’t discount easy DIY options, says Looeeze Grossman, The Used Kitchen Company. ‘Masking off sections of the wall to paint a geometric print or using stick-on mirrors to create a crittall-style wall can add interest while remaining inexpensive,’ she says.
Place mirrors behind shelving to make small kitchens feel twice as big.
” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/BTF8wDFL9bVQHgkxQ3ltyg–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTk2MA–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/ideal_home_591/21d787aa9301e7bf2c11c58e384de8d4 class=caas-img data-headline=”DIY a crittall-style mirror”> If you can’t live without a dining table in your kitchen – whether to eat, work from home or entertain – you can still make this work with small kitchen design.
Opt for narrow and small kitchen tables and push it completely against the wall. For seating, combine standard dining chairs with a bench – or two – that you can pull out when needed.
” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/BlEx2F7DKFP3pz2LNIBkeQ–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTk2MA–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/ideal_home_591/70fc6499920c0d51193c414db9692d8f class=caas-img data-headline=”Rethink kitchen furniture”> ‘Galley kitchens are favourable in a small spaces,’ says Al Bruce, Founder, Olive & Barr. ‘They instantly offer more flexibility especially in terms of storage space, as the layout is made up of two rows of cabinets facing each other to create a galley between them, removing the need for corner cupboards in favour of using every millimetre of space.’
If you’ve always dreamed of kitchen peninsulas you can still make this work in a slimline galley space. Simply take your cabinetry out by a foot to fit one set of small drawers. As a result you have extra storage, a visual zoning and a place to gather and chat while someone’s cooking.
” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/urcbWnVHFUgN9lOo0wCqzQ–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTk2MA–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/ideal_home_591/1864830c525bd4bc554c46bca878350d class=caas-img data-headline=”Build a mini peninsula”> Distract the eye by going bold. A patterned small kitchen island or surface will direct attention directly to it, niftily making guests not notice how small the rest of the space actually is. Choose a large repeating pattern rather than small so it doesn’t seem too busy and cluttered. ” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/1FmalwQOeLbf4eVTWw_umQ–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTk2MA–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/ideal_home_591/310ca3c179d6a1debb7f486e10b1a76d class=caas-img data-headline=”Distract with pattern”>
‘Maximising storage is at the top of most homeowners’ wish lists, however, this can be tricky in smaller kitchens,’ says Vlad Putjatins, Kitchen Designer, Harvey Jones. ‘If you are lucky enough to have tall ceilings, creating two runs of shorter, medium height wall cabinets stacked on top of each other will help to make the most of the vertical space.’
‘For small kitchens ideas, I always recommend leaving a gap between the cabinets and the ceiling, as it gives you a clear visual of the room’s full dimensions and avoids enclosing the space.’ Enhance this effect even further by boosting light levels. Think floor-to-ceiling windows and, if possible, a skylight.
” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/702t.r4wyjyBmy9_6n4DPA–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTk2MA–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/ideal_home_591/27fa8cb9c9acf19ecf427f5b7974b2d8 class=caas-img data-headline=”Up the sense of space with your layout”> Think outside the box when it comes to how you store kitchen items. Think what you might do with small living rooms, for example. Slimline ladder style shelving units are perfect for minimising how much floor space you’re taking out without compromising on storage levels. Plus, they’re a delight to style! ” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/sidWEuxR4_eA.hVdLciTIA–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTk2MA–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/ideal_home_591/bba1f64c5df05f40f8c1e56a06a62c88 class=caas-img data-headline=”Choose alternative storage solutions”>
Kitchen booths are always a plus, but they work especially well for small kitchen design. Build in your banquette or booth attached to the kitchen peninsula or cabinets so everything is in one.
If you really need to save on space then rely only on the bench seating and only bring in extra chairs as and when needed.
” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/Zm1COnI99W8ZrmMjwRRA6Q–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTk2MA–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/ideal_home_591/ec9b629fde4a7e35e9dd1c40b58dacb8 class=caas-img data-headline=”Build in booths”> ‘A small space shouldn’t restrict you in terms of colour, but there are important considerations to bear in mind,’ advises Ruth from Benchmarx. ‘It is inevitable that darker coloured units will absorb the light. So it is best to keep these to floor level to maximise storage without it becoming oppressive.’
Less is more, so instead of filling all available wall space with units, opt for open shelving, which gives a contemporary look and avoids enclosing the space.
” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/goyVHg2wCu7AuvUXZlfxnw–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTk2MA–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/ideal_home_591/afed8f0085fcb37f5f15db9133df9075 class=caas-img data-headline=”Combine open and closed shelving”> In a small kitchen, particularly with small galley kitchens, it can feel like it’s impossible to properly zone the space. ‘Integrating a partition means you can separate functions out more and give designated prep areas within the room,’ advises Graeme Smith, head of design, Second Nature Kitchens.
Opt for a glass half partition to keep the room feeling open and allow light to pass through. Treat one section as similar to a prep kitchen, and keep your appliances and larger utensils hidden from casual viewing.
” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/KTOwkLC6Sw8BrWs41JQfIg–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTk2MA–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/ideal_home_591/9deffe69f8017edb5ae963572d84cdba class=caas-img data-headline=”Use partitions to separate tasks”> Storage is undoubtedly one of the most important considerations in any kitchen, but none more so than in a small kitchens. ‘One wall kitchen is ideal for those with a smaller space that still want an impactful kitchen,’ says Al from Olive & Barr.
‘The simplicity of a one wall layout is that you can maximise efficiency without compromising on functionality. You need to think vertically and create as much extra storage space as possible by utilising the height of your walls.’
Once you’ve planned where this storage is going to go, start to think about light. With small kitchen design, wall-to-wall cabinetry will block out light, making the space seem smaller and more cramped. Resolve this by including some open storage and shelving. Using this on the top half of the wall will help make the room appear taller, too.
” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/iTdqKfr59ahrnz3z0U0cQg–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTk2MA–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/ideal_home_591/8d58f1ef98f15ff129d322ec31f8cd51 class=caas-img data-headline=”Think vertically”> Contrary to popular belief, small kitchens can absolutely be used as petite kitchen-diners. Make the space feels like two separate rooms without compromising on space by clever zoning.
Choose two distinct kitchen flooring styles and use them to trick the eye into seeing two spaces. A patterned option is best for as it is more energising, and helps disguise spillages. Meanwhile, calming more neutral styles work well for a relaxed dining zone.
” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/uAaBS3iJjKr7QZqKZib8EA–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTk2MA–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/ideal_home_591/ffe7ebd6d0bff49d116b42e4f96929e9 class=caas-img data-headline=”Zone with flooring”> Broken plan is the new open plan, and small kitchens can benefit from this style of layout. What you’re essentially doing is zoning the room with either full partitions which can be opened or pulled back when needed, or half partitions to give the sense of separate areas. This allows you to differentiate cooking, dining and living areas while preserving the overall open plan feel of the space.
For partition alternatives, look at freestanding furniture, slatted screens or Crittall doors.
” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/SXlwODS99rp_mp8R3KjwmA–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTk2MA–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/ideal_home_591/cd8456683b5a4fcea1dd8ae483719f12 class=caas-img data-headline=”Break the plan”> ‘Utilise the space of your kitchen by creating a breakfast bar area,’ suggests Hayley from Magnet. ‘While it may seem a challenging fit, they are an excellent option if you don’t need a lot of cupboard storage space. However, breakfast bars can double as both a preparation and dining space, creating a multifunctional approach to your kitchen design.’
Look for slim options which can be built onto peninsulas or islands to further save on space.
” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/hwFw2Xac5DBzH_WOCcohuw–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTk2MA–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/ideal_home_591/5e02722a49715d377c3c53d32f6fe0de class=caas-img data-headline=”Incorporate a slim breakfast bar”> ‘Small kitchen design requires careful thought and consideration to give the illusion of a larger space,’ notes Isabel Fernandez, Director at Quorn Stone. ‘Contrary to belief we often find a larger tile can work well at achieving this. A smaller floor tile results in lots of grout joints which can enclose the space and detract the eye from the tile. We often suggest a 900 x 600 tile as it is a versatile size that works well in both smaller and larger areas.’
‘Alternatively wood effect porcelain is becoming increasingly popular in tighter spaces due their long and narrow format,’ continues Isabel. ‘If you choose a complementary grout colour it makes the grout less noticeable which again helps to open the space out.’
” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/xJ95KVLXMCwRFWLABFgtXQ–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTk2MA–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/ideal_home_591/f67548c6cbe257bb89ca2ead34f46ed6 class=caas-img data-headline=”Pay attention to your flooring”> In small kitchens where space is tight you may be tempted to remove the door to avoid the feeling of claustrophobia. But a door to a kitchen is a handy tool to be able to contain the smells of cooking from filling the rest of the house.
Consider sliding doors, which are the ultimate space-saving room divider. Even when it is pulled closed, a glass design means it doesn’t act as a solid barrier from one space to the next.
” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/DSCIeOi3MrGKAwMrl.BOhg–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTk2MA–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/ideal_home_591/8054baba819e222c057892a025dbf2eb class=caas-img data-headline=”Save space with a sliding door”> ‘Kitchens need to be as functional as they are beautiful,’ says Tom Howley, design director, Tom Howley. ‘If you take a standard galley kitchen to have a 6ft width and a 12ft length, island and peninsula counters are rarely an option in this sort of space. The importance of walkway space should be a key consideration.’
‘When designing your layout for small kitchen ideas, always leave a metre of walkway space either one or two sides of your kitchen island, worktop or peninsula counter. This is a functionally and aesthetically effective dimension to keep in mind.’
” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/4nlm8vHK5CdC0va51YZrlw–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTk2MA–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/ideal_home_591/cb89ee7d1f8754311945d11203f52ba8 class=caas-img data-headline=”Think about walkways”> Choose collapsible furniture to create space when it’s not needed. Look at including an extendable table, which can provide an island of sorts. Then, at mealtimes, it can extend out to form a sizeable dining table.
The table could even provide valuable desk space for working from home. Due to the nature of collapsible furniture the space isn’t in any way compromised by the need for a table. It’s a highly efficient way to make small kitchens work to its full potential.
” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/qJsYa3HSL2ivzS14hGmJCA–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTk2MA–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/ideal_home_591/49e29521d008cb25b4da345d5d244aac class=caas-img data-headline=”Make space with collapsible furniture”> A tiny kitchen still has to cater for even the most basic of food prep and serving, which requires a lot of ‘stuff’. This means it is key to use every last bit of available space by being savvy with the design solutions.
Ensure the units are as tall as physically possible to elongate the space. Making the most of magic corners and other clever mechanisms will also help use every millimetre of space.
Hanging glasses below the cupboards not only uses up space that is otherwise redundant, but more importantly it frees up storage space inside the cabinets.
” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/A7f6v7RD2B8uU8aikS.l9A–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTk2MA–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/ideal_home_591/0a1047240366d6d6314673704a1e8937 class=caas-img data-headline=”Get creative with corners”> When space is at a premium, clever small kitchen design comes to the rescue. ‘When presented with a small kitchen ideas it is essential that the layout is carefully considered to make sure every inch of the kitchen is utilised,’ says Ben from Kitchen Makers.
‘Creating a bank of cabinetry along one wall is a great way of streamlining and opening up the space. Tall wall units are particularly suited to narrow, galley style kitchens, as using this space ensures the area feels less cramped than if filled with larder style dressers.’
” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/rJPwlPeFmr3GSyTGsI5K5A–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTk2MA–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/ideal_home_591/01d07c1c7aa6a824cfa08b804c66adb5 class=caas-img data-headline=”Use one side for floor-to-ceiling storage”> Whether planning a new kitchen or carrying out a makeover on existing cabinets, glass is a key material to enhance small kitchens.
‘If you do decide on floor-to-ceiling cabinets, these should only be fitted with glass door display cabinets. This will open up the space in a way that opaque cabinetry will not in a smaller kitchen,’ explains Tom Howley.
” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/1KAgPkrn_YJO0IscB3YWwg–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTk2MA–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/ideal_home_591/319c39cd8313ab68ee1e1c56cb512db8 class=caas-img data-headline=”Add depth with glass”> Kitchens of all sizes can feel chaotic, but by their very nature, small kitchens are particularly vulnerable. Tackle this head on by painting your small kitchen in a colour that promotes rest and relaxation. Green kitchens are the ultimate choice for making us feel collected and calm.
Mix in different tones in cabinetry, walls and accessories. That layering will mimic the green of a garden, woodland or forest glade, exaggerating the effect.
” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/sClvGxydXqO2J_uM3oV12w–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTk2MA–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/ideal_home_591/9a2669625768a0b106accd46eeb657e0 class=caas-img data-headline=”Use fresh mint green to promote calm”> Make a small kitchen feel light and airy by opting for a neutral kitchen colour scheme. However, neutral doesn’t just mean beige, white or grey. Pair white patterned tiles and marble worktops with duck egg blue kitchen cabinets for a crisp colour scheme that will bounce light around, making the kitchen feel spacious. ” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/FWRiE5p57l.z6RyEGU5wIw–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTk2MA–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/ideal_home_591/576424dafb8b60dd9bbc592ea4a5d157 class=caas-img data-headline=”Embrace reflective surfaces”>
Instead of investing in ordinary shelves, look at more modular options. Choose shelving which maximises storage by adapting to your kitchen’s needs.
Add in or take away shelves, adjust heights, hang glasses upside down and even introduce a wine rack. When space is at a premium you need to make sure every inch counts.
Simon Temprell, Interior Design Manager at Neptune recommends hanging a ‘batterie de cuisine’ above an island or countertops to store pans and cooking utensils overhead, and integrating as many appliances as possible so they’re unobtrusive.
” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/zkCg4DvRdrAhm3HDTgLDFQ–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTk2MA–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/ideal_home_591/0b29f6270a1bf2673f4d01e2cb91211f class=caas-img data-headline=”Invest in flexible storage”> Keep surfaces from looking cluttered by tucking the toaster, kettle and coffee machine away in a breakfast cupboard, otherwise known as an appliance garage. As soon as you open the cupboard your favourite gadget is sat ready to use.
This is a nifty trick for small kitchen design, making use of awkward corners and making sure that none of your kitchen tech gets lost at the back of a cabinet.
” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/Aw3Z_fogMUK40X46TqaS0A–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTk2MA–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/ideal_home_591/eccb8e67f99a7b7f4b0a1c51b3f6455f class=caas-img data-headline=”Hide appliances in a breakfast nook”> A combined induction extractor hob is a great space saver in small kitchens. It means you can swap a bulky extractor hood above the hob in favour of extra storage.
If you don’t require an extra cupboard or set of shelves, consider leaving the area above the hob empty to give the illusion of a more spacious kitchen.
” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/9btVHIv4s3890D0ejqn9vw–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTk2MA–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/ideal_home_591/400be69969499645d8d9163cfe9583a1 class=caas-img data-headline=”Choose a combined extractor induction hob”> Adding an island might sound like a terrible idea in a small kitchen. However, in a long thin kitchen, a well-thought-out kitchen island can be the perfect way to add in extra storage and surface space, whilst keeping the kitchen a sociable space.
Choose an island with plenty of storage space underneath for stowing away vegetables and linens. A slight overhang from the counter top ensures that the kitchen island seating will fit easily underneath, avoiding any potential trip hazards.
” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/hld2qTsuls7A9Yybxf0qsw–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTk2MA–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/ideal_home_591/cc4f22e68520584b7389847d825e4f6b class=caas-img data-headline=”Swap a table for a kitchen island”> Create the illusion of more space in a small kitchen by painting the cupboards in the same colour as the walls. It creates a light and airy space where the units blend into the kitchen walls.
Every spare inch of space could be crammed with storage but a uniform wash of white paint will keep the space looking neat and spacious.
” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/TUG4i30rQXkLG_hF1j34Pw–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTk2MA–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/ideal_home_591/0357aedaa321767fe22f5131adb118fb class=caas-img data-headline=”Paint cabinetry to match the walls”> Small kitchen design requires you to make use of every inch of storage space you have. If you have a small boxy kitchen, rather than cramming all your pots and pans into a deep cupboard that is going to become a nightmare when you need to find a particular frying pan, consider swapping a cupboard for a drawer.
Choose a clever pullout drawer to maximise space and make finding your favourite frying pan easy-peasy.
” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/aCpMCv0uSDRczFCQ6jx_RQ–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTk2MA–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/ideal_home_591/3bc694cbaa43fbd22ab786192e338068 class=caas-img data-headline=”Invest in pullout drawers for easy access”> You may think the kitchen is the obvious place to put a washing machine. But in continental Europe, you’re more likely to find it in a bathroom. So if you’re stuck for space, it might be worth relocating your laundry appliances and incorporating them into your bathroom. If your bathroom is just as teeny, you might be able to squeeze it in a cupboard under the stairs.
Alternatively, if you have a separate washer and dryer, you could consider keeping them in the kitchen but stacking them one on top of the other in an old larder cupboard. It hides them out of sight, saves space and helps streamline laundry days.
” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/YKhTrSt4YHg01.hRxhn47w–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTk2MA–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/ideal_home_591/ad05b7c27b8c02bc162911a19706f4c4 class=caas-img data-headline=”Rethink the washing machine”> Investing in a dishwasher is tempting, but your small kitchen design might not have space for one. So, it’s worth finding room for a double sink instead.
Keep one bowl for washing and one bowl for dirty dishes. That way you’ll have somewhere to stack mucky prep kit and plates out of sight, and without cluttering up the work surface.
” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/vjYn7O0OcYzuS6KvkYwSrw–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTk2MA–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/ideal_home_591/138240d93ad3bc641e9dfb608a36060b class=caas-img data-headline=”Supersize the sink”> If you don’t have the budget for a kitchen extension, optimise the space you already have instead. Identify places where there’s wasted space, such as the gaps between shelves, at the back of cupboards, below the sink, unused corners and windowsills. Stack wherever you can and have a clear out of kitchenware that’s infrequently used or only has one purpose, so you have less to store.
Think also about relocating items that aren’t in everyday use, but you don’t want to throw out, to elsewhere in your home. Next, think about the space on your walls and doors. Try adding a utensil rail or magnetic knife board, hooks on the sides of your cupboards or racks hung over a door. Extra shelves in corners or across alcoves will also come in handy.
” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/s1G4xkxA1PMRg_NRIaDOew–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTk2MA–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/ideal_home_591/ba27cfc03626d8b7ada9a4eaab31154b class=caas-img data-headline=”Turn every corner into a storage space”> Wall cabinets can really encroach on space, so consider doing away with yours. Open shelving can have a huge impact in a small kitchen, creating an open and airy feel. Just ensure you limit the amount of shelves you use, and what you keep on them. ” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/.OpBmZMRL2d1wqfwXoqr0A–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTk2MA–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/ideal_home_591/a191f8a16c8ea251df75d8583d63ccf7 class=caas-img data-headline=”Keep on top of clutter”>
If you’re wanting to reduce any visual clutter in a more compact cooking space, then the cupboard doors are a great place to start. They take up a large amount of the surface area, so using slab doors will create a pared-back look.
Even with long cabinet handles, the kitchen design will look sleek, Scandi-inspired and more streamlined.
” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/FFqG9AW1EbiF2RxmPSWE8A–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTk2MA–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/ideal_home_591/6d9606a314091f71bf63c0a783d5f8c0 class=caas-img data-headline=”Select slab cupboards”> Marie Kondo advises against having anything left out on your worktops, and while that may be a little extreme, too many items cluttering up the worktops can be a real headache. Consider clever solutions like wall-mounted magnetic knife strips, rails to hang utensils, pans, mugs, spice jars, and cutlery bins.
Also think about what you need to have to hand every day, such as chopping boards, wooden spoons, washing-up liquid, and what can be stored away until needed. Look for genius kitchen appliance layouts to save even more space.
” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/vUpBFfzPpehPNSeGYOz4bg–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTk2MA–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/ideal_home_591/416187ebde5afbfd231c8d183aba7796 class=caas-img data-headline=”Marie Kondo your worktops”> Not every kitchen will have room, but if your heart is set on having an island or peninsula, consider a slimline design with a petite footprint so it can fit comfortably in a small kitchen. The central workstation may be small, but it can still provide extra storage space and a useful worktop for food preparation. ” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/sv0s6bEiuCyo_K4tgksjVg–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTk2MA–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/ideal_home_591/c824eec6e3d6f7e60e6aa50ae3355ea8 class=caas-img data-headline=”Incorporate a slim island”>
Opt for handleless designs for a sleek, streamlined appearance. This will maximise the visible space and make your small kitchen feel less cluttered. Boost this effect by keeping to the same materials and colourways. ” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/ozPp2qaX.KpspNbLaLd0JQ–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTk2MA–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/ideal_home_591/fe4f98ba71f8f850ac15e83ad4feffe1 class=caas-img data-headline=”Choose handless cupboards”>
