Having a small kitchen space can be a challenge. It can feel like there’s not enough space to move around, let alone be creative in the kitchen. A small kitchen doesn’t have to be a hindrance. In fact, it can be an opportunity for innovative design and efficient organization. By implementing the right methods, you can transform your compact kitchen into a functional and aesthetically pleasing space that feels open and inviting.
Whether you live in a small apartment or have limited space in your kitchen, our tips and tricks will help you maximize the potential of your compact cooking area and create an illusion of a much bigger space. So, without further ado, let’s dive right into the various techniques professional remodelers use to make small kitchens look bigger.
1. Use Lighter Colors For Walls And Cabinets
One effective method is using lighter colors to make your small kitchen space appear more spacious. Lighter shades of paint on the walls and cabinets can create an illusion of openness and brightness, making the kitchen space feel more significant than it is. You can achieve the same effect by using a lighter-shaded wallpaper, too. Remember, using lighter colors is just the first step in creating a more expansive kitchen space.
White or Neutral Colors
Using lighter colors is one of the easiest and most effective ways to make a small kitchen space look more prominent. White or neutral colors, such as beige or light gray, can create an illusion of space and help reflect natural light. These colors also have a timeless appeal and can make your kitchen feel brighter and more open.
Pastel Hues
If you want to add color to your kitchen while still making it look bigger, consider using pastel hues. Soft shades of blue, green, or pink can provide a subtle pop of color without overwhelming the space. Pastel colors add a sense of depth and create an airy atmosphere in your small kitchen.
2. Maximize Natural Light
Natural light has the incredible power to transform a cramped kitchen space into a spacious and airy oasis. Taking full advantage of the existing natural light in your kitchen can make a world of difference. One effective way to amplify the impact of natural light is by keeping your windows uncovered or using sheer curtains. This allows unobstructed natural light to flood the room, creating a sense of openness and expansiveness. While privacy is undoubtedly essential, there are alternative options available.
Consider installing blinds or utilizing frosted window films. These practical solutions allow light to filter through while maintaining your desired privacy level. Strike the perfect balance between receiving ample natural light and safeguarding your personal space.
In your quest for an airy and inviting kitchen space, it’s vital to steer clear of any obstructions that impede the flow of natural light. Bulky furniture or oversized cabinets can cast shadows and block the entry of sunlight into the room. By opting for sleek and minimalistic designs, you can optimize the potential of natural light sources and enhance the overall spaciousness of your kitchen. Embrace the simplicity and let the radiance of natural light be the star of your culinary haven.
3. Choose The Right Kitchen Cabinets
Cabinet Sizes and Proportions
When selecting kitchen cabinets for a small kitchen, consider the size and proportions carefully. Opt for cabinets that don’t overwhelm the space and have a streamlined design. Avoid bulky or heavy-looking cabinets that can make your kitchen feel cramped. By choosing cabinets proportionate to your kitchen’s size, you can create a visually pleasing and more spacious appearance.
Sleek and Minimalistic Cabinet Designs
Sleek and minimalistic cabinet designs can help maximize the visual space in a small kitchen. Choose cabinets with clean lines and minimal details. Flat-front or slab-style cabinet doors give a contemporary and streamlined look. A simple and uncluttered cabinet design can create a sense of openness and make your kitchen appear more prominent.
Kitchen Cabinets with Glass or Open Panels
Consider incorporating cabinets with glass or open panels to enhance the perception of space in your small kitchen. Glass cabinet doors allow you to display decorative or colorful dishware. In contrast, an open shelf can create an airy and accessible storage solution. This can also break up the monotony of solid cabinets and give your kitchen a more relaxed and inviting feel.
4. Opt For Open Shelving Over Conventional Cupboards
Open shelving can genuinely transform the appearance of a compact kitchen, offering a clever way to make it feel more spacious. You can instantly create a sense of openness and visually enlarge the kitchen space by eliminating conventional upper cabinets or cupboards and opting for open shelves. Beyond their functional benefits, open shelves also present an excellent opportunity for displaying your cherished kitchen essentials, allowing you to infuse your unique style and personality into your kitchen’s decor.
5. Utilizing Mirrored Splashbacks
Mirrors have long been associated with bathrooms and bedrooms, but their usefulness extends beyond just those areas. Mirrors can transform a small kitchen into a more spacious and inviting space. By strategically placing mirrors throughout your kitchen, you can harness the power of reflection to enhance the overall ambiance and create an illusion of more room.
One way to incorporate mirrors into your kitchen design is by adding a mirrored backsplash or, as Brits call it, a splashback. Not only does this serve the practical purpose of protecting your walls, but it also brings an element of style and sophistication. The mirrored surface will reflect natural and artificial light, instantly brightening the space and making it feel more open. This clever placement of mirrors can make a significant difference in the overall appearance of your kitchen.
Balancing The Right Placement Of Kitchen Mirrors
When utilizing mirrors in your kitchen, finding the right balance is essential. Don’t overwhelm the space with too many mirrors; this can create a chaotic or cluttered look. Instead, strategically place mirrors where they can have the most impact. Experiment with different sizes, shapes, and placements to find the perfect combination that enhances the overall aesthetic and maximizes the illusion of space.
6. Declutter And Organize Your Small Kitchen Space
Purge Unnecessary Cluttered Items
Clutter can make even the most spacious kitchen feel cramped. Take the time to declutter your small kitchen and remove any unnecessary items. Donate or sell appliances, utensils, or cookware that you rarely use. A minimalist approach to kitchen essentials will create a more open space and make finding and accessing the items you truly need more accessible.
Group Similar Items Together
Organize your kitchen by grouping similar items—store baking supplies in one area, cooking utensils in another, etc. Keeping like items together can optimize your kitchen’s functionality and use the available space better. Consider using drawer organizers or dividers to keep smaller items neatly arranged.
Utilize Kitchen Drawer Organizers
Drawers can quickly become a chaotic mess if not properly organized. Invest in drawer organizers to keep your utensils, spices, and other small items neatly arranged. Utilizing the space in your drawers efficiently will help free up counter space and give your small kitchen a cleaner and more spacious look.
7. Incorporate Glass And Lucite
Including glass and Lucite elements in your small kitchen is a clever design choice that can significantly enhance the perception of space. By incorporating glass or Lucite countertops, tabletops, or even seating, you can create a visually transparent and airy atmosphere that brings a sense of openness to your kitchen. These materials have a unique quality of transparency that can make your kitchen appear less cluttered, allowing for a more spacious and inviting feel.
Using glass and Lucite in a small kitchen helps maintain visual continuity, ensuring every corner of the space feels connected and cohesive. Whether it’s a sleek glass countertop or simple Lucite seating, these elements can add a touch of modern elegance while maximizing openness in your small kitchen.
8. Optimize Kitchen Storage Solutions
Vertical Storage
When you have a limited amount of floor space to work with, it is important to explore different storage solutions. One effective strategy is to utilize vertical storage options. You can maximize your storage capabilities by installing tall cabinets or shelves that reach the ceiling. Not only does vertical storage help maximize the available space, but it also creates a visually open and uncluttered environment in your kitchen. So, instead of feeling restricted by a small floor area, consider using vertical storage to optimize your kitchen space.
Trending Hanging Pot Racks
If you own a collection of pots and pans, you may want to consider the convenient option of installing a hanging pot rack. This clever addition to your kitchen space allows you to optimize vertical space, ensuring that your pots are always within arm’s reach while simultaneously decluttering your cabinets. Not only does a hanging pot rack provide practical benefits, but it also adds a touch of visual appeal to your kitchen decor. You can effortlessly combine functionality with style in your culinary space by elegantly displaying your cooking essentials.
Pull-out Pantry Organizers
Incorporating pull-out pantry organizers in a small kitchen can be a game-changer when optimizing storage. These clever organizers are designed to maximize the use of narrow or hard-to-reach spaces, making them a perfect solution for making the most out of a limited kitchen area. By utilizing every available space efficiently, you ensure that your kitchen stays organized and creates the illusion of a larger and more spacious environment. With pull-out pantry organizers, you can say goodbye to wasted space and hello to a well-organized and functional kitchen.
Cabinet Inserts
Investing in cabinet inserts is a smart choice for anyone looking to enhance the functionality of their kitchen cabinets. You can instantly upgrade your storage solutions by incorporating features like lazy susans or pull-out shelves. These inserts optimize your cabinet space and contribute to better organization and accessibility. For example, with the help of lazy susans, you no longer have to struggle to reach for items stored at the back of your kitchen cabinets.
Similarly, pull-out shelves enable you to quickly retrieve items without rummaging through a cluttered space. The benefits of these cabinet inserts become even more evident in smaller kitchens where space is at a premium. Utilizing these inserts allows you to maximize every inch of your cabinet space. Their added functionality lets you neatly arrange your kitchen essentials, making finding and accessing what you need easier.
9. Select The Right Kitchen Lighting
Explore All Available Kitchen Lighting Options
When designing a kitchen, selecting the appropriate lighting plays a pivotal role in enhancing the perception of space. By carefully considering various lighting options, such as recessed lights, pendant lights, or track lighting, you can effectively create an illusion of a larger area within your kitchen. Each type of lighting has distinctive qualities, allowing you to imbue your kitchen with a specific ambiance while accentuating different areas of the space.
Assess the natural light in your small kitchen space.
Consider the natural light in your kitchen and how it interacts with artificial lighting. Use light fixtures that complement and enhance natural light, creating a well-lit, more spacious environment.
Choose kitchen roof light fixtures that provide ample lighting.
Avoid dim or inadequate lighting that can make your kitchen feel cramped. Opt for light fixtures that provide ample lighting throughout the space. Well-lit areas will visually expand your kitchen and make it more functional.
Use easy adjustable lighting to create ambiance in the kitchen.
Adjustable lighting options, such as dimmer switches or smart bulbs, can help create different moods and ambiance in your kitchen. Adjusting the lighting levels allows you to make the space feel cozier or more open, depending on the occasion or your preference.
Consider task lighting for specific kitchen areas.
Countertop Workspace
Task lighting can be beneficial in areas where you perform specific tasks, such as the countertop workspace. Install under-cabinet lighting or adjustable track lighting to illuminate these areas properly.
Cooking Area
Consider installing a dedicated lighting fixture or range hood with built-in lighting for the cooking area. This will provide ample lighting while you’re preparing meals and ensure safety in the kitchen.
Under-cabinet Storage
Under-cabinet lighting is a great way to enhance the overall look of your kitchen while also improving its functionality. You can effortlessly highlight the storage areas and create a visually appealing atmosphere by installing LED strips or puck lights underneath your cabinets. These lights offer a subtle yet effective glow that adds a touch of elegance to your kitchen and makes your cabinets appear more spacious. This simple addition can significantly impact the overall aesthetics of your kitchen space, allowing you to showcase your beautiful cabinetry while enhancing your workspace’s functionality.
Sink Area
A well-lit sink area in your kitchen is vital for practical tasks such as washing dishes or preparing vegetables and enhancing the space’s overall spaciousness. Ensuring sufficient lighting around the sink area to facilitate these everyday activities is crucial. By having ample lighting, you make these tasks more accessible and more efficient and create an inviting and comfortable environment in your kitchen. When washing dishes, good lighting is essential to see and clean each utensil properly, ensuring they are free from any residue or grime. Adequate lighting can help you spot any missed spots or stains, resulting in cleaner and more hygienic dishes.
Kitchen Island
If you have a kitchen island, one design element to consider is the installation of pendant lights or a chandelier above it. Adding these fixtures serves the practical purpose of providing focused lighting for your workspace and can enhance your kitchen’s overall aesthetic.
Pendant lights or a chandelier can create a focal point by drawing attention to the island, adding visual interest, and making your kitchen more spacious. With the right choice of lighting, you can transform your kitchen island into a stylish and functional centerpiece that elevates the entire space.
10. Create Illusions With Geometric Flooring Design
Using flooring with diagonal geometric patterns to create a sense of depth
Diagonal flooring, such as floor tiles or hardwood, can remarkably enhance the visual appeal of your small kitchen. The clever use of a diagonal tile pattern not only adds a touch of elegance but also creates an illusion of depth, ultimately making the kitchen appear larger and more spacious than it is. To ensure the optimal outcome, you should seek advice from an expert who can guide you in selecting the most suitable diagonal marble layout for your kitchen space. Their kitchen renovation experience will ensure that the chosen design perfectly complements your kitchen’s style and layout, resulting in a magnificent transformation of your small kitchen.
Creating continuity with seamless flooring materials
By eliminating breaks or transitions, the continuity in flooring allows for a smooth flow throughout the room. This seamless look creates a sense of unity and lends an overall expansive feel to a smaller kitchen space. This clever floor tile design can help optimize your kitchen’s visual appeal and functionality, making it a more inviting and comfortable place to prepare meals, entertain, and spend time with your loved ones.
Contrasting kitchen flooring with the walls and cabinets
Creating contrast between the flooring and the walls or cabinets is a clever design technique that can effectively enhance the overall appearance of kitchen space and create a perception of increased size. One way to achieve this is by opting for contrasting colors in your kitchen. For instance, if your walls and cabinets are light in color, selecting darker flooring can instantly create a striking contrast. Similarly, lighter kitchen flooring can create a visually appealing juxtaposition if your walls and cabinets are darker.
This play of contrasting colors adds visual interest and helps define different zones within your small kitchen space. By introducing distinct shades and tones, you can effectively create a sense of separation and depth, transforming your compact kitchen space into a visually captivating and spacious environment.
11. Minimize Hardware And Accessories
Creating a clean and open visual appeal in a smaller kitchen space is essential. One effective strategy is to minimize the use of hardware and accessories. Rather than choosing cabinet doors with protruding knobs or handles, consider opting for ones that are handleless or have integrated pulls. This streamlined approach not only creates a seamless and polished aesthetic but also helps to reduce visual clutter in the kitchen. By choosing this design option, you can achieve a cleaner and more spacious look in your small kitchen space.
12. Embrace Minimalism
Adopting a minimalist approach to design and decor can be incredibly beneficial for small kitchens. The concept of “less is more” truly shines in these kitchen spaces. By keeping countertops clear of unnecessary items and opting for sleek appliances, you can instantly create an atmosphere of simplicity and functionality. Additionally, selecting a few key decorative pieces to display can add personality and enhance the overall aesthetic without overwhelming the space. Embracing minimalism in your kitchen design allows for a visually open and clutter-free environment, making navigating and enjoying your culinary activities easier.
13. Consider Built-in Kitchen Appliances
Trending Slim Refrigerators
Incorporating built-in, slim refrigerators can optimize space in a small kitchen. A slim fridge is designed to fit seamlessly into cabinets or alongside them, saving valuable floor space and creating a more cohesive look. A slim refrigerator can also provide ample storage while being visually less imposing in a small kitchen space.
Built-in Microwaves and Ovens
Similarly, built-in microwaves and ovens can be installed to save countertop space and create a streamlined look. Wall-mounted or under-counter options can be chosen depending on your kitchen layout and personal preference. These built-in appliances contribute to a more cohesive and spacious kitchen appearance.
Drawer Dishwashers
Drawer dishwashers have become increasingly popular in small kitchens. A compact dishwasher can be installed under the countertop and operate independently or simultaneously. Drawer dishwashers save space and add convenience and functionality to your kitchen.
Induction Cooktops
Induction cooktops are a practical choice for small kitchens. They are sleek and flat, offering a seamless look when not in use. Induction cooktops also heat up quickly and provide precise temperature control. Their compact design saves counter space and adds to the overall spaciousness of the kitchen.
Undercounter Wine Coolers
Consider an under-counter wine cooler if you enjoy wine and have limited space. These compact appliances can seamlessly integrate into your kitchen cabinets, saving valuable floor and counter space. Undercounter wine coolers provide an elegant and efficient solution for storing your wine collection in a small kitchen.
Thank you for reading, and we wish you all the best in your kitchen transformation journey! Don’t be afraid to inject your personal style and creativity into the design. Small kitchen spaces can still be stylish and unique – remember to keep them balanced and clutter-free. With a bit of creativity and thoughtful design choices, your small kitchen space can become the heart of your home. We hope our tips have inspired you to transform your small kitchen into a spacious and functional area.
Here’s a short recap of all the major tips so you don’t forget them on your way out.
- By strategically utilizing storage solutions, choosing the right colors and lighting, and optimizing your layout, you can create an open and functional kitchen that feels larger than it actually is.
- Decluttering and simplifying your kitchen design is essential in creating a spacious environment. By keeping countertops clear and organizing your items effectively, you can create a clean and open space that is both practical and aesthetically pleasing.
- Additionally, incorporating reflective surfaces, such as mirrors or glossy splashbacks, can further enhance the perception of space by bouncing light around the room. Choosing light and neutral colors for your walls and cabinets will also help create a bright and airy ambiance.
- Don’t forget to use vertical space by installing shelves or hanging pots and pans. This will free up valuable counter space and add a touch of visual interest to your kitchen. Consider utilizing multi-functional furniture and foldable items to optimize space usage.
Frequently Asked Questions When It Comes To Making A Small Kitchen Space Look Bigger
What Color makes a small kitchen space look bigger?
Lighter colors like white or neutral tones can make a small kitchen look more prominent. These colors reflect light and create a sense of openness. Pastel hues can also provide a pop of color while maintaining a spacious feel in a small kitchen.
What countertops and worktops make a small kitchen look bigger?
Countertops with light-colored materials, such as white or light gray, can make a kitchen look more prominent. The light color reflects light and creates an illusion of more space. Additionally, choosing countertops with a seamless design, such as quartz or solid surface materials, can contribute to the overall openness of the kitchen.
What type of flooring options make a room look bigger?
Diagonal flooring can create a sense of depth and make a small kitchen space look bigger. The diagonal floor tiles pattern visually expands the kitchen space. Contrasting the flooring with the walls and cabinets can also define the room and add depth. Seamless flooring tile materials, such as large floor tiles or wooden floors, create continuity and make the room look and feel more spacious.
What are the best storage solutions for a small kitchen to keep it organized and clutter-free?
The best storage solutions for a small kitchen include vertical storage with tall cabinets or shelves that reach the ceiling. Hanging pot racks, pull-out pantry organizers, and cabinet inserts can maximize storage space. Drawer organizers can keep small items neat and manageable.
Are there any specific appliances or bespoke fixtures that can help optimize space in a small kitchen?
Yes, some specific appliances and bespoke fixtures can optimize space in a small kitchen. Built-in appliances, such as slim refrigerators, built-in microwaves and ovens, drawer dishwashers, induction cooktops, and under-counter wine coolers, can save floor and counter space while maintaining functionality. These appliances contribute to a more spacious and streamlined look in a small kitchen.
