Kitchen design small house
70 Best Small Kitchen Design Ideas
Stacy Zarin Goldberg, Ema Peter
Turn your kitchen into your happy place, no matter its size — it's the heart of the home, after all. From cooking healthy family dinners, sitting around the island with friends to organizing — then reorganizing — your limited cabinet space, you inevitability spend a lot of time in the kitchen. Just because your kitchen is small, doesn't mean it has to feel small. To help you make the most of your limited space, we've rounded up the best small kitchen ideas — whether your design style is modern, traditional or country.
Even if you're redesigning on a budget, you deserve a kitchen that feels functional and stylish. Make use of every crevice, clear clutter from counters and decorate blank walls. As you explore this photo gallery of small kitchen decorating ideas, you'll find fast and affordable solutions like hanging mirrors to create the illusion of more space, layering bold hues to brighten an interior and adding shelves to take advantage of vertical space.
We've included kitchen storage tips that'll keep your counters clean and orderly — like where to store liquor or the best way to organize a kitchen pantry. If you're considering a full renovation, we've sprinkled in DIY projects like finding a fresh paint color for the kitchen, setting up a separate bar or swapping in chic backsplash tiles. Whether you live in an apartment, condo or your house is lacking kitchen space, you're sure to find an interior to love.
Stacy Zarin Goldberg
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Add Sleek Open Shelving
Suspend open shelving from the ceiling or hang a rack high on the wall to add height and create the illusion of more space. At the same time, the added storage will minimize clutter on the counter.
Barbara Egan/Reportage
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Go Bold on Top, Neutral on Bottom
Here's a playful way to make your smaller space feel more vertical: go for bright upper cabinets. What's more? This modern kitchen has double-stacked cabinets for a ton of storage space.
Keep it neutral on the bottom to create contrast.
Cherished Bliss
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Create a Portable Stove
Instead of installing a full stove, blogger Ashley Rene went for something much more versatile: a double burner on a rolling cart and a vent hood with a charcoal filter. When the homeowner isn't cooking, they can easily put the burner away and have infinite more space.
Get the tutorial at Cherished Bliss »
Ema Peter
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Put the Microwave Down Below
Save on counter space by designating a home for your microwave, whether that be built in below your kitchen counter or hidden away in a pantry.
Lauren Pressey
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Add Corner Shelves
If you don't have the space for wall-to-wall open shelving, go for small corner shelves. Designer Kate Lester created instant storage by hanging three reclaimed barn wood shelves.
Design: Reena Sotropa In House Design Group; Photo: Phil Crozier
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Use a Bar Cabinet
Don't waste cabinet space on booze.
Here, interior designer Reena Sotropa uses a geometric bar cabinet to create separation in a small space.
Lindsay Salazar
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Go Big With Art
Just because you're working with a small space, doesn't mean you can't display your art collection. Use a mix of small and large prints to create a gallery wall that adds dimension to your kitchen.
Monica Wang
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Maximize Kitchen Corners
Learn to work with the space you have by capitalizing on every corner and nook. If your actual kitchen is small, there may be a small crevice or awkward nook that can be reworked into additional kitchen space.
Inspired by Charm
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Build a Butler's Pantry
Here, blogger Michael Wurm Jr. turns what was once a full bathroom into a butler’s pantry and a small powder room — but this concept also works if you have a closet or small alcove you're not maximizing.
See the full remodel at Inspired by Charm »
Mike Garten
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Choose Floor-to-Ceiling Whites
We all know that light, bright spaces feel more spacious than dark, dreary areas.
Stick with white cabinets, walls and trim for your small kitchen, then layer in wood accents and black cabinet hardware to keep things trendy.
Taylor Architectural Photography
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Embrace an Open Layout
The work of John McClain Design, this small kitchen is also a dining room and living room — and, yet it feels super spacious and sophisticated. Two small bistro tables near the sofa provide additional dining space.
Aliyev Alexei Sergeevich
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Disguise Your Dishwasher
For those of us with limited cabinet space, a dishwasher can take up half the kitchen. If you want to achieve a clean and streamlined aesthetic, install your dishwasher to fit seamlessly beneath your kitchen counters.
The Handmade Home
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Add a Runner
Elongate a narrow space with a long patterned runner, while also adding style and softness to your interior.
See more at The Handmade Home »
Stacy Zarin Goldberg
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Create Consistency
For a striking statement, bring the same paint color, wallpaper or wood paneling from the wall to the ceiling.
Stick with lighter hues and smaller prints, so you don't overwhelm the space.
Design by Velinda Hellen; Photo by Sara Tramp
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Go for Light Appliances
While stainless steel appliances are most popular, this sleek Smeg fridge proves that white appliances can look just as chic. Lighten up your space by pairing it with crisp white tiles, blonde wood floors and baby blue cabinets.
See more at Style by Emily Henderson »
Annie Schlechter for Country Living
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Install a Pegboard Wall
Paint a pegboard in a cheery hue to create a functional focal point. Once attached, load it up with some of your kitchen must-haves — measuring cups, wooden spoons, cast iron skillets and more.
Design by Studio Merlin; Photo by Richard Chivers
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Add a Built-In Seat
In an effort to merge the kitchen with the living room, Studio Merlin Founder Josh Piddock added a built-in kitchen seat into these rich blue cabinets from Reform.
Design by Jess Bunge; Photo by Sara Tramp
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Create the Illusion of More Space
Mirrors reflect light and trick the eye into perceiving a space is larger than it actually is — plus, they look great while doing it.
See more at Style by Emily Henderson »
Courtesy of HGTV
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Hang Rattan Pendants
The natural tones in rattan pendants add warmth, but the open and airy construction welcome breeziness into any small space.
Christopher Dibble
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Go for Multi-Colored Cabinets
Let the primaries — red, yellow and blue — breathe life into your space. Paint cabinet doors at random, but leave a few au naturel for maximum contrast.
Boxwood Avenue
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Keep Spices Organized
Alec Hemer
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Add Pops of Color
The brighter the space, the bigger it'll feel. You can go with shades of white and gray, then layer in two tones of a bold hue to add intrigue.
Max Burkhalter
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Incorporate Bottle Storage
Build custom cubbies to keep wine and liquor bottles off the kitchen counters. Store wine glasses, bottle stoppers and other accessories in a nearby cabinet, so you can pour with ease.
Amy Bartlam
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Create More Counterspace
If you're working with limited counter space, consider building another area that serves as an extension of the kitchen — even if it's a few steps away. You can use a sideboard and open shelving, like Kate Lester Interiors does here.
Mike Van Tassell
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Warm up the Whites
White on white can open up even the smallest of spaces, but go with a reflective backsplash, like pearl iridescent subway tile, to bounce light around.
RELATED: Stunning Kitchens With White Cabinets
Jessica Alexander for Pure Salt Interiors
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Get Smart With Floating Shelves
Don't let windows get in your way.
Stretch floating shelves across the entire wall, making sure to leave enough room between them to allow the natural light to come through.
Joe Schmelzer
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DIY a Kitchen Island
While you're cooking, a small kitchen island is as helpful as a big island (which is not an option for most tiny kitchens). You can even find a rolling one if you're not looking for a permanent solution.
Miki Duisterhof
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Try Backless Stools
When living in a small home or apartment, you need all the counter space you can get — even if that means creating your own with a dining room table that serves two purposes. Plus, backless stools can live under the table to conserve space when they're not being used.
Alison Gootee
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DIY Pantry
Gridley+Graves
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Use Small Nooks for Dining
Even a narrow nook can comfortably seat the whole family if you choose built-in benches instead of chairs.
tiny kitchen design and decor |
(Image credit: Future)
Our small kitchen ideas are perfect for those not blessed with a large and sociable space.
Not all homes come with vast open plan spaces. If yours is on the small side, there is plenty to feel positive about and there are still plenty of kitchen ideas to play with.
For a start, when designing a small kitchen, you'll soon realize that it’s easy to keep everything to hand without having to march from sink to hob to fridge. Plus, there is a wealth of clever small kitchen storage ideas available to get the very best out of every inch. Look for a designer with a proven record of creating dynamic and ergonomic designs for small spaces.
And, finally, you can afford to go for unusual and unabashedly luxurious materials. With a limited amount of door and drawer fronts to cover, investing in a little luxe easily elevates your kitchen area from small to cool.
Small kitchen ideas
These small kitchen ideas are useful, whether you are looking for remodeling ideas for small kitchens or looking to furnish a mud or laundry room, or if you just want clever, space-saving ideas for a larger kitchen.
Space-efficient, they are stylish, too.
1. Invest in smart storage
(Image credit: Lonika Chande / Simon Brown)
'It might seem counter-intuitive in a kitchen where space is at a premium, but unless the ceilings are very high I like to do away with wall cabinets altogether in favor of kitchen shelving,' says interior designer Lonika Chande .
'It looks much better and opens up the space. I am always on the lookout for vintage shop fittings and characterful reclaimed planks that can be repurposed as shelves. I then decant what I can into Kilner jars for display, alongside stacks of crockery, linen and the odd jug. I love nothing more than to be left to it with my Kilner jars and a Dymo labelling machine – unbelievably satisfying work and so visually pleasing too’.
2. Use decorative tricks to brighten a small kitchen
(Image credit: Madeline Harper Photography)
Creating a light and bright space as part of your small kitchen ideas can feel like an impossible task.
When faced with this small kitchen, Shawna Percival, founder and designer at Styleberry Creative Interiors started by relocating the window to a central position and making it larger so that it would let more light into the small kitchen. Finding ways to increase the natural light in the kitchen is a great way to combat the challenges and make a small kitchen look bigger.
‘For the backsplash, we went with these vertically laid tiles in variegated off-white, the tone variation creates the illusion of depth, while the high-gloss finish helps to further reflect light throughout the space,’ says Shawna. She paired these other white kitchen ideas including off-white cabinets which help the white countertops and eggshell white vent hood to really shine.
‘We heated things up with brass sconces, brass cabinet pulls, and warm wood accents through the custom range and accessories,’ continues Shawna. ‘We also incorporated this white-washed brick and rust-colored rug for some warm, cottage character.
’ Adding details from cottage kitchen ideas are a great way to add warmth and personality to your small kitchen ideas.
Other decorative tips include knowing which items home organizers say make rooms feel small (so you can avoid them in your kitchen). Top tips include keeping small kitchen appliances away from your worktops and getting rid of food packaging that is taking up unnecessary room in your pantry or cupboard.
3. Maximize awkward corners for storage
(Image credit: Caeserstone)
Older homes, which often come hand in hand with small kitchens, small kitchen layouts are characterized by their unusual nooks and crannies. Making the most of these unusual spaces is key to maximizing the storage space in your small kitchen ideas. Inset cookers and cabinetry into unused fireplaces and pair with your favorite stove backsplash ideas, or install open-shelving into alcoves to make the most of all the available space. Pair with neutral cabinetry and white stone countertops, like these from Caeserstone to keep the space feeling bright.
4. Work a dining nook into a small kitchen
(Image credit: Jane Beiles)
Galley kitchen ideas are one of the most common small kitchen ideas. These long, narrow spaces bring with them myriad design challenges from cabinetry through to lighting.
Often small kitchen ideas prioritize storage at the cost of social spaces, however this kitchen designed by Georgia Zikas manages to combine the two to great effect. ‘The custom design of the corner banquette seating incorporates drawers below the bench and a tall pantry cupboard to the right, while also providing a space for friends and family to sit and relax,’ explains Georgia.
Small kitchen lighting ideas are vital to the functionality and decorative aspects of your design, too – here, downlights in the cook zone are complemented by a pendant light over the dining table, which creates a warm pool of light over diners.
5. Make an open-plan space work with a small kitchen
(Image credit: Polly Eltes)
How to plan the layout of a small kitchen? There may be little choice, though a galley kitchen is often your only choice – even in an open plan area.
One of the benefits of open plan kitchen ideas is that you have a large footprint at your disposal. However, when incorporating a kitchen into an open-plan space you need to be careful that it doesn’t dominate the room.
This clever kitchen design divides the living space from the kitchen with a wall of cabinetry and a small subway tile backsplash – one of our favorite kitchen wall tile ideas – helping to keep the practical space separate from the social. However, the partial wall ensures that the cook isn’t isolated. Designed around a large window with the half wall also letting in light from the patio doors and skylight, this small kitchen still feels open and airy too.
6. Work cleverly with color
(Image credit: Little Greene)
‘As well as the walls, consider your kitchen cabinets and storage: highlighting these essential elements within a kitchen is a fantastic way to deliver design impact,' says Ruth Mottershead, creative director, Little Greene .
Are there architectural features or areas of interest to draw attention to? Color is a fantastic way to highlight a favourite feature.
If you don’t want to use a bold color all over, highlight the back of your shelving in a contrasting color or opt for a dynamic two-tone kitchen color scheme by adding one color to the lower cabinets and contrasting colors for walls and upper cabinets.
7. Paint in one color palette
(Image credit: Studio Peake)
‘In the cozy kitchen in one of our Chelsea pied-à-terre projects, we applied fresh colors throughout (with white cabinets and Stone I by Paint & Paper Library on the walls) to help the eye slide seamlessly from one surface to another and make the space seem bigger than it really is,' says Sarah Peake, founder and creative director, Studio Peake .
8. Choose space-enhancing flooring to trick the eye
(Image credit: Kasia Fiszer)
Flooring is always a challenge when it comes to kitchens – there are plenty of kitchen flooring ideas but it can be difficult to choose the right material and style for your small kitchen ideas. It must be hard wearing, easy to clean and provide the perfect backdrop to the rest of your kitchen.
‘A smaller kitchen requires careful thought and consideration to give the illusion of a larger space,’ says Isabel Fernandez, director at Quorn Stone . ‘Contrary to belief we often find a larger tile can work well at achieving this. A smaller tile results in lots of grout joints which can enclose the space and detract the eye from the tile. We often suggest a large tile as it works well in both smaller and larger areas'.
There are also plenty of different stone flooring types and kitchen tile ideas that are perfect for small kitchen ideas. 'Wood effect porcelain is becoming increasingly popular in tighter spaces due to their long and narrow format – if you choose a complementary grout color it makes the grout less noticeable which again helps to open the space out,' adds Isabel.
(Image credit: John Lewis of Hungerford)
With the rise in open-plan kitchen-living spaces, kitchens have become smaller in favor of larger entertaining spaces. If your kitchen is part of an open-plan layout, then tidiness is key.
Unlike with traditional kitchen ideas, where the door can be closed after cooking, in open plan kitchen ideas everything is permanently on display, meaning that storage is essential.
What small kitchens lack in footprint, they often make up for in height, so focus your design vertically. Full-height cabinetry not only provides more storage but creates a sophisticated design that clearly zones your kitchen within the open-plan layout.
By factoring height into your kitchen layout ideas, you can incorporate a wide range of kitchen cupboard storage ideas into your small kitchen design. In this kitchen from John Lewis of Hungerford , dark green full-height cabinets create an elegant, traditional backdrop while the yellow feature wall not only adds warmth but draws the eye to the small windows and the decorations, exaggerating the length of the space and focuses the eye on the source of natural light.
Note: clever breakfast bar ideas for small kitchens can provide the only dining space within an apartment, so go for glamorous fittings and furnishings.
10. Work a kitchen island into a small kitchen
(Image credit: Think Chic Interiors )
Kitchen island ideas are a dream for many homeowners and it can seem impossible to unite this dream with small kitchen ideas. However, with the right design and placement, it's a realistic addition that will provide more prep space and extra storage. Here, a slim design, painted white so as not to seem domineering, adds drawers, countertops and an extra sink. Incorporating white kitchen ideas into your small kitchen also helps the space to feel larger and brighter.
Adding a kitchen island also requires compromises as it will take up potential storage space and, as a result, will need to be paired with other small kitchen storage ideas. ‘When adding cabinetry to this kitchen, we focused on building upwards. This not only provided more storage but also gave the kitchen a high-end feel,' says Malka Helft, designer at Think Chic Interiors . 'My pet peeve is kitchen cabinets that do not go up to the ceiling when they can; it is a dust collector and a waste of good storage space.
'
11. Paint cabinets the same color as the walls
(Image credit: Paul Massey)
‘If you are short of space in a kitchen, it’s a great idea to paint the units the same color as the walls, says Joa Studholme, color curator, Farrow & Ball. 'The walls should be painted in wipeable modern emulsion and the units in super-durable modern eggshell. This will make the space feel bigger but also less utilitarian – more like a living room than a kitchen.’
12. Avoid a 'fully fitted' look
(Image credit: Jessica Summer)
‘When designing a compact kitchen, you might consider avoiding the “fully fitted” look and perhaps think about decorating above kitchen cabinets with open shelves, or use glass in the upper cabinets to provide a degree of reflection and additional depth,' says Claire Sa, director, De Rosee Sa .
13. Choose complementary colors
(Image credit: Middleton )
A kitchen usually has lots of colorful elements in it 'I would go with quite neutral colors for the walls and some bright color on the cupboards,' says Edward Bulmer, interior designer and founder, Edward Bulmer Natural Paint .
'Try mixing it up with contrasting colors: as long as they work tonally you cannot go wrong. You can play it safe with colors that sit alongside one another on the color wheel, or for striking impact, go for those on opposite sides i.e. greens to complement reds, blues to complement oranges and purples to complement yellows.’
14. Find space for a small pantry
(Image credit: British Standard)
Storage is a key consideration for any kitchen, however, it is even more important when it comes to small kitchen ideas. ‘Tidiness is really the difference between a small kitchen looking sleek and sophisticated, or cramped,’ says Maryana Grinshpun, principal at Mammoth Projects .
If you are lucky enough to have a large cupboard in your kitchen or utility, consider converting it into a small pantry, it will give you that valuable storage space. Plus, there are plenty of different pantry ideas that can suit every shape space. ‘With pantries continuing to top kitchen wish lists, people are adding open shelving and slimline doors or a curtain to even the smallest of spaces to create mini ancillary pantries,’ says Anderian Bergman, design manager at British Standard .
15. Choose rich textiles to add pattern
(Image credit: Future / Brent Darby / Styling Pippa Blenkinsop)
When space is tight, you can distract the eye with color, but the best place to have rich shades is on the floor. That gives you the opportunity to introduce the cabinetry and walls in pale plains, which are more likely to make a small kitchen feel bigger.
16. Love bold tiles? Keep them to the floor
(Image credit: Original Style)
If you love pattern, again, limiting it to the floor can make a small kitchen feel bigger. Any pattern that creates lines that draw the eye across the kitchen will help make the space feel larger still and if you limit the color palette of the tiles you choose, you will exaggerate the effect further.
Kitchen flooring like this becomes the feature of the room and is best used when the units and walls are plain in color, that way there’s no creative clashing. You can also use tiles to zone the kitchen area if the space is open plan.
17. Light up with pretty shades
(Image credit: Studio Duggan)
Small kitchens can be in dark, dramatic shades but they will benefit from an element of the cabinetry being in a contrasting pale color. Pale pretty shades like blush pink combine well with gray countertops and backsplash and they will expand your small kitchen visually.
Be clever too with your textures. The ribbed white sink mimics the ribbed glass of the cabinets and you can see the white tableware peeking through. These are all key design features that help a dark and small scheme look fabulous.
18. Create a visual trick when you replace wall cabinets
(Image credit: Nicola Harding)
Clever lighting ideas for small kitchens are needed in compact spaces. LED strips under cabinets are one great idea and so are downlights. But we like the idea of making a design statement with your lights and if you can source wall lights that have adjustable heads then all the better, as they can double as task lamps too.
This works particularly well when you don’t have wall units to hang LED strips from.
Here, a line of lamps is echoed by a line of pictures above. This linear trick is another way to make a small kitchen appear longer than it is.
19. Venture vertically
(Image credit: Future / Darren Chung)
When planning small kitchen layouts think vertically by continuing your cabinets up to the ceiling but plan carefully to ensure the room feels as open as possible. Store less frequently used items in high cupboards. Add a breakfast bar if you can. The amount of storage and workspace it provides makes great use of the footprint and will ensure your kitchen is more sociable.
20. Focus on form and function
(Image credit: Future / Davide Lovatti)
Creating a fuss-free, family friendly design is easy with handleless cabinetry. Available in a variety of finishes, from hi-gloss white to textured woods and ceramics, it’s a style that works beautifully in both modern and period properties.
A handleless scheme, particularly one in a cool white, can appear clinical, but adding a few natural materials will give it a softer edge. Think about including a colorful patterned tile backsplash or wooden worktops. Stone or wood floors are also a practical solution for a kitchen that will help to create a layered, textured effect.
21. Mind the gap
(Image credit: Future / Jonathan Gooch)
Named after the kitchen space on a ship, galleys are designed to be super-efficient by maximizing every available space. Known for their two parallel counters, there is a range of practical options to help make it a workable layout, from smart storage solutions to lighting tricks and fun flooring ideas.
Storage is key in galley kitchens, as space saving is the goal. Opt for a multi-use drawer as it offers a compact space for crockery and cutlery.
For kitchen ceiling ideas for a smaller galley kitchen, if it is possible, install skylights to boost the natural light in the space.
22. Add color to enliven a small kitchen
(Image credit: Future / Jonathan Gooch)
Eye-catching details aren't just for large kitchens. Neutrals are not for everyone and the size of your kitchen shouldn’t dictate that you play it safe. Decorative accessories will add colorful flourishes and can be easily updated to keep abreast of new kitchen trends. Lamp shades, blinds, curtains, artwork and countertop storage are all good, inexpensive options.
One way to add color to your small kitchen space is through stylish window treatments, for more inspiration, guide on, what do you put on a small kitchen window?
23. Shed natural light into a small kitchen
(Image credit: Future / Davide Lovatti)
Consider rooflights or glazing your ceiling if you have few or small windows. Similarly, keep tall cabinets and bulky fridge freezers away from windows where they may limit the amount of daylight in the room.
24. Factor in food for thought with seating
(Image credit: The Main Company Photograph: Chris Snook)
Even very small spaces can often accommodate an open-plan dining area.
In a compact kitchen, consider using banquette seating, fitted into a corner or even on one side of a kitchen island, to create a cozy dining spot.
25. Look on the bright side
(Image credit: Future / Davide Lovatti)
When it comes to the color scheme, you don’t have to play it safe, even when looking for small kitchen ideas. Conventional wisdom suggests light and bright with reflective surfaces to keep the space airy, but the opposite can work just as well.
Dark and moody charcoal cabinetry teamed with a dramatic lighting scheme will make the kitchen feel smart, while good use of mirrors, whatever the color scheme, will give a greater illusion of space.
And don’t scrimp on the kitchen lighting ideas. Incorporate adequate task lighting under cabinets for food preparation and include in-drawer and in-cabinet lighting where possible, so you can always see the contents. Finally, add some mood lighting if you can on a separate circuit.
26. Keep it neat and tidy
(Image credit: Future / Jan Baldwin)
Storage is one of the most important elements in a small kitchen and open kitchen shelving ideas can make a small space feel larger, unlike a solid run of cabinetry.
If you are using open shelves in your small kitchen, ensure you save the best-looking pieces to be both stored and displayed for this space.
27. Put it on display
(Image credit: Future / Carolyn Barber)
Talking of display... don’t forget to include a small display area if you can squeeze it in. Open shelves are ideal for showing off decorative items and cookbooks that make your kitchen feel personal.
'Keep materials simple. I would recommend a maximum of three finishes in a small kitchen, which allows you to zone areas, create features and let other sections blend into the background,' says Lindsey Rendall, co-founder, Rendall & Wright .
28. Add a color pop
(Image credit: Future / Polly Wreford)
When it comes to kitchen color ideas, don't be afraid to go bold in a small kitchen space.
A bright splash of bold red could really make the difference between a cold, cramped space and one that is interesting and exciting.
29. Keep things off surfaces
(Image credit: Harvey Jones)
If your kitchen is small, any clutter that's left on the side is going to use up much-needed workspace and make it look even smaller. Also, when it comes to cooking, you'll be limited with countertop surface area.
Make more room for yourself by putting any appliances that aren't used every day in a cupboard, rather than on the side. The same goes for any food. It also might be worth considering if decorative kitchen accessories are actually adding anything to the space, or if they are just getting in the way.
Fitting and organizing kitchen drawers so that they can house everything from spices to crockery is a far more efficient use of space than installing cabinets in small kitchens.
30. Opt for slimmer cabinets
(Image credit: Lisa Staton Interior Design/Haris Kenjar)
Slimline base cabinets could be a great option if you're in need of a little more floor space because they are built with a reduced depth.
However, this does mean that you won't be able to store any big pans in them, so it's important to come up with an alternative way to store these essentials, or size down.
31. Use geometric patterns
(Image credit: Studio Vernacular/Ruby & Peach Photo)
Geometric patterns are becoming an increasingly popular choice and they are incredibly helpful for making a space look bigger, as they draw the eye vertically or lengthways to give the impression of a longer, taller kitchen.
32. Get reflective
(Image credit: La Cornue)
We all know mirrors make a space look bigger, so why not throw a few into your kitchen? Alternatively, opting for reflective surfaces, such as gloss, will help bounce light around the room, making it appear bigger and brighter.
(Image credit: deVOL)
There's no denying a double butler sink makes dishwashing incredibly easy, but if you have a small kitchen, this style is going to take up precious space.
Not to mention it will make the room look even smaller.
A single sink can look just as stylish and will give you more counter space to play with.
34. Integrate your appliances
(Image credit: Tom Howley )
Integrated appliances, like fridges, washing machines and dishwashers, will make a room appear bigger and more streamline.
Yes, you might have to open a cupboard to get to them, but the overall look will be sleeker instead of a mix-match of different elements in a small space.
35. Add a portable island
(Image credit: Ikea)
A portable kitchen island can be moved about the room according to needs, which means they are more flexible than their static counterparts.
These moveable options don’t feature plumbing, electricity or gas. They are usually tables, trollies or units on wheels, but they come in a whole host of styles from industrial designs to classic farmhouse kitchen islands.
36. Keep lines clean
(Image credit: Future/Paul Raeside)
Did you know that something as simple as removing bulky handles from cabinets can make your small kitchen appear larger? By using modern kitchen ideas such as push/click catches instead, the room will be more streamline and will look smoother.
37. Use light-reflecting accessories
(Image credit: Future / Alicia Taylor)
Metallic, glass and reflective accessories – whether that's pots and or pendant lights – will help bounce light around the room. These light-reflecting objects will boost brightness and add a sense of depth.
38. Stretch cabinets up high
(Image credit: deVOL)
Storage is clearly king when it comes to the small kitchen and this is where bespoke, made-to-measure designs as part of the layout really come into their own. The flexibility of having non-standard door sizes, clever corner cabinets and tailor-made carcasses at your fingertips is a huge plus point for small kitchen layouts.
One way to max out storage possibilities in a small kitchen is to stretch cabinets all the way to the ceiling – this will also eliminate that awkward space on top of cabinets that collect dust. Use high-up storage for items you use infrequently such as party platters and seasonal gadgets like ice-cream makers and slow cookers.
‘Here, glazed and closed storage covers a whole wall from floor to ceiling,’ explains Helen Parker, creative director of deVOL . ‘We usually like to stick to our standard-sized cupboards to keep costs down for our customers, but there is always the option of a special bespoke piece, made and fitted for an awkward space or alcove to maximize storage, and that’s just what was needed here.’
39. Add the slimmest breakfast bar
(Image credit: deVOL)
Who said you can’t dine in a small kitchen? Not us. This small galley kitchen is just over 6.8ft (2.1m) wide, 13.5ft (4.1m) long and the distance between the two runs just over 2.6ft (785mm) – but it still manages to fit in masses of storage, appliances and even a bespoke seating/eating area. The slim ledge is carved out of the same pale quartz worktop as the rest of the kitchen with two stools to perch on and take in the views of the city of Bath, England, outside.
‘This project is proof that you don’t need a huge space to create a dream kitchen,’ says Helen Parker.
‘Space is a wonderful luxury but it’s not about having loads of it, big rooms, big gardens and big houses, it is about creating room to live comfortably and simply in the space you have available.’
40. Go for open and closed storage
(Image credit: mosaik Design & Remodeling)
You might be tempted to squeeze in as many cabinets as possible when planning small kitchen ideas – but beware, this can sometimes simply make a small space feel smaller. While storage is a key priority, consider a mix and match of closed door cabinets at the bottom and open shelving on the walls as part of the layout. Two rows of cabinetry, top and bottom, has the potential to make your kitchen feel claustrophobic and confined, especially if there aren’t any windows to break up the run.
‘When working with a galley kitchen, I like to incorporate some open shelving,’ says Erin Davis, lead designer for Mosaik Design & Remodeling in Portland, Oregon. ‘Too much cabinetry can make a small kitchen feel smaller.
Some open shelving combined with closed doors offers a chance to display your favorite items, inject personality to the space and adds an open feel to the kitchen.’
How do I plan a small kitchen?
Getting the right designer on board is key and, crucially, the kitchen needs to be designed to suit the space, rather than picking a range or style and trying to adapt your small kitchen ideas to fit.
Dual purpose pieces and good internal storage will make the most of cupboard space. Weigh up the pros and cons of tall units over worktop space – small double galleys often benefit from one side of tall cabinets teamed with one run of base units opposite. Although, you should make every attempt to keep work surface clear of clutter.
Look for compact appliances, choosing premium models that give the optimum internal space while still fitting a standard or compact footprint. Also pieces such as multi-functional compact ovens, offer a range of cooking methods from steam to conventional and microwave in one neat little package.
It's also worth taking shape into account – U-shaped kitchens for example, can work really well in a small space.
What is the best layout for a small kitchen?
In terms of small kitchen layouts, a galley format is a popular choice.
Galley kitchens, with their linear simplicity, have a timeless appeal no matter how big or small your space. And with open plan living becoming increasingly popular, a galley kitchen is a compact solution that is both practical and surprisingly stylish.
What is the best color for a small kitchen?
The best color for a small kitchen ultimately depends on what you want from the space, but don't let the size hold you back from going bold.
While the long established preference for going ‘light and bright’ when decorating small spaces does apply, it’s important not to let your kitchen slip into neutral obscurity.
'Don’t be afraid to use color – even really bright colors in high gloss finishes, such as lime green, blue, lilac or pink.
It’s a great way to give your kitchen a boost if you haven’t got a great deal of space to play with,' advises Adrian Stoneham of Stoneham Kitchens .
If you do feel more comfortable with a pale palette, try to shake things up in other ways. Incorporating interesting shapes, via serpentine curved units, or adding one strong feature piece like a chandelier or designer bar stools, can create a really dynamic room that’s easy to update.
How can I decorate my small kitchen?
Decorating a small kitchen can be approached in the same way as in a larger kitchen. In other words, pick finishes and decorative elements that please you and complement the style of the rest of your home. But it's really important to understand that every choice you make for a small kitchen will be magnified by the compact conditions.
So, if you were to choose a paint color, bold tiles or a maximalist wallpaper for the walls, each will feel that much more vivid and dominating than in a larger kitchen.
For this reason, it is a good idea to limit your choice of decorative layers to just two and to keep them to specific areas of the room.
Or, go for subtlety and be aware that toning down your choices just a little can still be really effective in a small kitchen.
Can I put an island in a small kitchen?
When it comes to fitting a kitchen, a question that's often asked is 'can I put an island in a small kitchen?' The good news is that there's usually always a way to make it work.
An island unit is perhaps the most popular feature in a kitchen, and is one that can work well in a small kitchen.
In a very large room, it will act as a bridge between perimeter furniture, improving the work triangle and allowing more than one cook to work comfortably side-by-side, but can also make a wonderful addition to a small kitchen, adding extra seating and negating the need for a separate dining room.
With the addition of arresting light pendants or an eye-catching work surface, it can become the room’s design centrepiece.
In an open-plan kitchen, use an island or peninsula to divide cooking and dining.
‘The addition of breakfast bar seating can create intimacy in the smallest kitchen, and only requires a 40cm worktop overhang to dine in comfort,’ says interior designer Abigail Hall .
Connect both water and electricity, and your island will become an impressive workhorse, incorporating cooking, washing and cooling appliances. ‘This will free up surfaces in the rest of the kitchen but we also see the island as an opportunity to have extra ovens or specialist appliances such as a teppanyaki, wok burner or BBQ grill,’ adds Neil Lerner .
What shape is most efficient in small space kitchens?
A U-shaped layout could be the most efficient choice for a small space kitchen as it allows a good number of cabinets. With two corners in the layout, use pull-out internal fittings that permit access to all the contents of these cabinets to maximize storage.
A galley kitchen can also be an efficient choice.
Bear in mind that the width of a galley kitchen should be 7 to 12ft (2.1 to 3.7m) with a minimum of 3ft (0.9m) between opposite countertops. Be mindful that 3ft (0.9m) of walking space between countertops is a bare minimum and is the best solution for kitchens where one person is using it. For a more flexible layout, 4 to 5ft (1.2 to 1.5m) of space between countertops is ideal.
Jennifer is the Digital Editor at Homes & Gardens. Having worked in the interiors industry for a number of years, spanning many publications, she now hones her digital prowess on the 'best interiors website' in the world. Multi-skilled, Jennifer has worked in PR and marketing, and the occasional dabble in the social media, commercial and e-commerce space. Over the years, she has written about every area of the home, from compiling design houses from some of the best interior designers in the world to sourcing celebrity homes, reviewing appliances and even the odd news story or two.
Small kitchen design - 85 photos of small kitchen interiors Many things get in the way: the difficulty of choosing a style, difficulties in combining functionality and aesthetics, and your own stereotypes.
Especially a lot of misconceptions pop up when planning the design of a small kitchen. It seems that in a few square meters of the interior it is impossible to make everything both beautiful and comfortable. But these are really just stereotypes! This article will help you get rid of many controversial judgments. nine0005 Arm yourself with the motto "Standard kitchen - non-standard solutions" and go for it!
Contents of the article
- Choosing a small kitchen design style: options and their features
- Provence in a small kitchen
- Country in a small kitchen
- High-tech in a small kitchen
- Modern style in a small kitchen
- Loft style in a small kitchen
- Classic style in a small kitchen
- How to design a small kitchen? nine0016
- Features of small kitchen projects according to the size of the room
- kitchens 6 kV m
- kitchens 8-9 kV m
- kitchens 10 kV m
- The design of a small-sized kitchen in Khrushchevka
- Small kitchen in a private house
- Nuances of the corner kitchens
- How to choose kitchen furniture
- Kitchen table
- Household appliances
- Small kitchen-living room.
Pros, cons and features - Curtains for a small kitchen
- Wallpaper in the kitchen: all the pros and cons
- Ceiling design in a small kitchen
Choosing a small kitchen design style: options and their features
Deciding on a small kitchen design style is the beginning, the starting point of all actions. It is impossible to get a great option without armed with thoughtful blanks regarding the style of the room.
Do not try to delve into the deep essence of each style and "try on" it for your kitchen. Be guided first of all by the "LIKE" parameter. nine0005
Leaf through magazines, catalogues, browse websites with the necessary information. And try to understand what you like, what style is perceived more comfortably, which one corresponds to personal ideas about comfort and convenience. Below are examples of popular styles that can be applied in kitchen design.
Provence in a small kitchen
A style that has quite specific features.
- rough ceiling finish
- floral patterns
- light furniture
- general impression of carelessness and comfort
It is appropriate to design a Provence style kitchen in a private house . If we are talking about a city apartment, this can be an additional plus for your home. After all, how pleasant it is to find yourself in an atmosphere of rustic simplicity after a hard day's work!
Country in a small kitchen
Perfect for those who want to create an atmosphere of comfort and simplicity in the kitchen. Furniture made of wood (necessarily - muted soft shades!), A low-hanging lamp over the dining table, an extractor hood in its traditional form, the absence of stained-glass windows on the cabinet doors - all these are characteristic features of the style. The main thing is that everything should look simple, not pretentious. NO PATHOS, NO GLAMOR! nine0005
Country is the style of the village, the style of simple home comfort and warmth.
The colors for the walls should be chosen from beige, white, sand, olive, light blue. The floor will look advantageous with stone imitation. For this, matte ceramic tiles are best suited.
High tech in a small kitchen
This style will suit you if you do not plan to load an already small kitchen with an abundance of items. nine0005
| Hi-tech style features | |
|---|---|
| Utility principle | All design is subject to practicality and functionality. |
| Spacious | Yes, yes, even in a small kitchen! Modular furniture will make the kitchen ergonomic, and the abundance of glass, metal and light will visually expand the space. |
| Conciseness | For high-tech style, the use of small things, jewelry is unacceptable. Only rigor, only clean lines! In the case of a small space, this is only beneficial - it is not loaded with unnecessary items and visually preserves the precious volume of the room |
| Corners | The whole interior in this style is dominated by simplicity and rationalism. Straight lines intersect at an angle, nothing scratches the eye. |
| Technological equipment | Hi-tech is the most suitable style for lovers of modern technological innovations. It is in this style that kitchen appliances with the latest progress look most appropriate. Naturally, all this should be harmoniously integrated into the overall design of the kitchen. |
Modern style in a small kitchen
We can say that this style does not have strictly defined features in its characteristics, but is subject to certain principles in its essence. The kitchen will look modern if you follow some rules in its design.
- Severity . Decorative load should be minimal (or completely absent).
- Smart lines . No, no, this does not mean lack of imagination and boring rectangular cabinets! But we must remember - the whole appearance of the room must be logically built, subject to functionality and simplicity.
- Modern technology . Perhaps this is the most obvious point, because we are talking about a kitchen in a modern style. The main thing is that the technique successfully and harmoniously fit into the overall design.
- Innovative materials for finishing . Glass, metal, specially processed wood, composite materials - all this is welcome in the design of a modern kitchen. nine0016
Loft style in a small kitchen
This is where you can realize the most daring ideas, combining them with individual needs!
Unusual layout, colors and unexpected finishes - all this is possible when choosing a loft-style kitchen. But, as in any other style, you must adhere to certain rules. Otherwise, there is a risk of “scribbling” in one room a lot of elements that interfere with each other and turn the design into chaos. nine0005
IMPORTANT! A LOFT-style kitchen is appropriate in those houses and apartments where the design of the entire home is subordinated to this direction!
Zoning is one of the characteristic features of the loft style.
If technical capabilities allow, it is better to remove the wall between the kitchen and the dining room. It will be replaced by a partition, bar counter or division of the room into zones. The decor should be absent, its role is played by brick ledges, plastered walls, plank floors.
Classic style in a small kitchen
Having a small kitchen, you should be very careful about its design, choosing a classic design option. Below are the hallmarks of the style and requirements for the design of the room. Think about how it is possible to combine them, having a modest footage at your disposal.
Having chosen a classic style, you should also decide on its variant at the very beginning. It should be either a modest (discreet) design, or "rich" (with many decorative elements). nine0005
| Classic style kitchen design principles | |
|---|---|
| Expensive furniture and accessories | The classic style will not tolerate cheapness. Therefore - choose high-quality materials for finishing the room and expensive solid furniture. In general, classic kitchens are made for many years, this style is not subject to fashion and trends. Therefore, you should not save on furnishings by planning your kitchen design for many years. |
| Good lighting | A large chandelier and additional lighting are perfect for this design option. |
| Veiling of working elements | The facade of the headset, among other functions, must perform another important function - to "hide" the equipment. There are many design solutions in which the refrigerator and gas stove are almost invisible in the interior. |
| Functionality | Arrange furniture so that it does not interfere with movement. A comfortable dining area is a must for a classic-style kitchen. To do this, the kitchen is often combined with the dining room, if we are talking about a small apartment. nine0140 |
| Soft colors | Shiny metal and flashy shades are taboo in this version. All colors (and their shades) should be unobtrusive, pleasant, "live". |
Read more about choosing kitchen design
How to design a small kitchen?
A small kitchen is NOT a SENTENCE. The small size of the room should not be embarrassing and force you to refuse something. The main thing is to correctly plan all your wishes in specific square meters, and the result will surely please. nine0005
- Specialist services . The abundance of sites with interior options, a bunch of magazines viewed - that's not all. There is nothing better than specific advice for your particular kitchen. A competent designer will not only help you decide on the design of the kitchen as a whole, but will also suggest a lot of tricks and unexpected ideas. After all, this is his specialty. Thinking through the idea on your own, you may miss some points due to your lack of competence. After all, not every day each of us has to deal with design! nine0016
- Trying on variants .
A large dining table will not fit into the modest footage of the room, and the multi-level ceiling will hang over your head if the height of the walls is small. Try to think through exactly those ideas that are acceptable for small kitchens. - Castling . This can apply to both a specific piece of furniture and an entire area. For example: move the dining area to the living room if it is an adjoining room. Or: reduce the number of storage cabinets to save space, and store some supplies in the pantry. nine0016
Read about options for decorating a kitchen on a loggia here.
Features of small kitchen projects according to the size of the room
Do not load precious meters with an abundance of decor and small details . Only necessary and functional pieces of furniture and appliances should be present
See more photos of the kitchen 6 sq.
m.
Kitchens 8-9 sq. m. If the room is elongated, then 2 options are possible: dividing the room into 2 zones or placing all the furniture along one wall (with the opposite wall free).
Kitchens 10 sq. m
This size will fully satisfy the claims of the owners who want to combine the cooking area and the dining area. At the same time, the kitchen can look quite spacious if you choose a high-tech or classic style. nine0005
More kitchen interior options 10 sq. m. But this is a delusion! Use simple yet powerful design techniques:
- Lots of glitter . Mirror surfaces and varnished furniture fronts will come to the rescue. The floor can also be selected with a glossy effect. Reflecting surfaces, it will visually enlarge the room. nine0016
- Compact technology . It is not necessary to put a standard gas stove with an oven in such a kitchen. The choice of technology allows you to solve the problem of a small kitchen without problems.
The hob can be small, conveniently fitting into the area of the worktop (the oven, by the way, can be placed separately). - Custom solutions . Plan your kitchen so that the window sill extension can serve as the dining table. This will significantly save the area of \u200b\u200bthe room and allow you to place everything you need in the kitchen. nine0016
Small kitchen in a private house
Most often, the size of a kitchen in a private house is much larger than in an ordinary apartment. Large (and sometimes very large) windows can also be a definite plus. Undoubtedly, in this case, there can be an unlimited number of design options for the premises. It is only important not to lose the atmosphere of free space, wanting to use every meter.
Almost any style is suitable for a kitchen in your own home. The style of Provence, and country, and classic will be appropriate. In any of them, unobtrusive accents can emphasize unity with nature, suburban romance.
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It is important not to get carried away with the embodiment of the chosen style “in its purest form”.
A modern high-tech kitchen would be somewhat out of place if the whole house has a romantic style. Also, you don’t need to diligently promote the idea of rustic simplicity if the general style of the house is strict classics or modern.
Corner kitchen design nuances
The most important rule is to PLAY THE CORNER! It may seem that the corner kitchen carries a lot of problems both in design and in everyday use. But why not turn a disadvantage into an advantage, and an inconvenience into a “highlight”? nine0095 Make the corner "work", let the kitchen be the most interesting room in the house .
How to choose kitchen furniture
First you need to decide which parameters are most important. If it is longevity, then the choice will be one.
If - the original design, then another. Of course, if you wish, you can combine all the wishes. It is important to determine the specific requirements for specific components of the kitchen interior.
Related article: Furniture for the kitchen (125 photos)
Kitchen table
The strength and durability of the surface should be the main selection criteria. Especially if it is a dining table, the surface of which is also used as a working one. Regarding the size of the table, everything is simple - consider the number of people who most often gather in the kitchen at the same time.
Read more about choosing a kitchen table in our separate article!
Home Appliances
An experienced housewife knows the set of equipment necessary for her culinary concerns. Those who have to equip their kitchen for the first time, may be at a dead end. What is an important necessity, and what is a tribute to technical fashion and nothing more? When choosing household appliances, be guided by your own preferences and habits.
If you do not plan to bake, you can refuse the oven. This will save space and make it possible to place a more important element of everyday life in the kitchen. If you want to get rid of the need to wash dishes by hand, a dishwasher will become a necessary and important part of the design. nine0005
Small kitchen-living room. Pros, cons and features
Most often, the question of combining a kitchen and a living room arises with a modest footage. By combining the two rooms, the owners solve the problem of tightness. This decision is not always absolutely correct, because the kitchen-living room has not only advantages, but also some disadvantages.
The following points can be attributed to the minuses:
- Refusal of room . By combining the kitchen with another room, you reduce the number of rooms in your house (apartment). And if we are talking about a “odnushka”, then we can completely assume that the whole apartment becomes almost a single room.
- Uniform design required . Combining the kitchen with the living room, remember that the style of both areas should be common. Otherwise, a room with zones that do not match in style will look ridiculous.
But, of course, the kitchen-living room has obvious advantages. These include:
- Space . Combining the kitchen with the living room, you get a large free space. A nice bonus will be more light and improved air ventilation. By the way, you should take care of a good hood so that the smell of food during cooking does not spoil the air of the entire room.
- Original design . You can not refuse the dividing wall in principle. As an option, leave a large arch that formally delimits the areas of the room. You can also "play" with the difference in the level of the floor. The podium in the dining area will visually separate part of the room without cutting it into pieces. nine0016
More photos of the kitchen-living room design.
Curtains for a small kitchen
The choice of curtains is not the first question in kitchen design. But no less important than all the others! You need to start from the simplest moments.
If the passage to the window is free, you can choose curtains to the floor. Long curtains are also great for options when the kitchen window belongs to the dining area of \u200b\u200bthe room. nine0005
A small window should not be covered. The best option is light translucent curtains or blinds. Roller blinds can be an excellent solution in the design of a small kitchen. Compactness is their main advantage. Due to the fact that they do not go beyond the dimensions of the window itself, it is possible to place furniture in close proximity to the window opening.
Wallpaper in the kitchen: pros and cons
The choice of wallpaper in the kitchen is very multifaceted. There can be many options, but each is fraught with its own characteristics (both positive and not so).
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When choosing wallpaper, you should try to take into account both practical properties and aesthetics. Simply put, wallpapers must be durable, resistant to wear and at the same time fit into the overall design of the kitchen. The modern range will easily satisfy the needs of the most demanding client. The difference in price will also please, when compared with the option of painting the walls. After all, preparing the walls for wallpapering is less expensive than in the case of using paint.
Having made your choice in favor of wallpaper, you must take into account some of their disadvantages. The kitchen is a room that is used functionally more than others. Therefore, the wallpaper in this room will wear out faster, no matter how high-quality they are. nine0005
Be prepared to change them more often than in other rooms.
Ceiling design in a small kitchen
In the design of a room, the appearance of the ceiling is not the last thing.
Indeed, it is precisely due to some tricks with the ceiling that you can visually “open up” the room, make it more voluminous, larger. The modern choice of the ceiling option pleases and reassures. After all, you can choose your own option, which will fit perfectly into the overall design concept.
| Ceiling materials and features of working with them | |
|---|---|
| Plaster | The material is simple and easy to use. The undoubted advantage is that the relief plaster hides the minor imperfections of the ceiling. |
| Wooden panels | Alternatively, the panels can be plastic. A wide range of colors and sizes makes panels a popular and convenient option. Decorating the ceiling with panels is quite simple - they are mounted on a frame made of a metal profile. nine0140 |
| Ceiling tiles (wood, plastic, foam plastic) | To decorate the ceiling with tiles, you must first level its surface and make markings according to the size of the squares of the tiles. Mirror or glossy tiles will make the room visually larger |
| Stretch ceilings | Undoubtedly, specialists should make such a ceiling. Stretch ceilings have many advantages: durability, resistance to dust, moisture, steam. |
| Gypsum board | A popular option with an army of fans. After all, this material gives room for imagination. The ceiling can be made curly, multi-level, different in texture and color. |
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Small kitchen design - 75 photos of interiors, ideas for renovation
Small-sized kitchens are a common problem in Soviet apartments.
However, it applies to all types of budget housing, even in European countries and the United States. But in itself, the presence of an individual zone for cooking and eating is already a lot, and in order to be pleasant in such a kitchen, you just need to properly decorate the interior. Read the article on how to do this! nine0005
Common mistakes in the design of a small kitchen
There is an opinion that on an area of 5-6 sq.m. absolutely nothing fits and the convenience of such a kitchen leaves much to be desired. This leads to a number of errors.
The first reason for crowding is oversized furniture and appliances that take up a lot of space and do not fit well into the architecture of the room.
A sense of clutter also comes from the sheer amount of color and texture when crockery or food boxes are stored on open shelves. The color dissonance between the walls, the ceiling and the headset also breaks the harmony of the space. nine0005
The water and gas pipes left in plain sight do not add comfort, and due to the lack of an exhaust hood and normal ventilation, not only the health of the hostess suffers, but also the cleanliness of the surfaces in the cooking area.
Choosing the right layout
The comfort of the kitchen area to a large extent depends on the location of the headset and the so-called "working triangle" - refrigerator, stove and sink. The triangular geometry was invented specifically for small spaces, to simplify the cooking process, to make it more ergonomic. nine0005
The main points of activity should fall on the corners of the figure, between which the hostess will be able to move freely. The layout itself is determined by the length of the walls, the location of doors, windows and communications. In cramped indoor spaces, it is best to use designs that resemble the shape of the letters P and L. For open studios, a linear, circular or island version may well be suitable. And if you got a corridor-type kitchen (for example, a checkpoint), then it is best to apply a parallel layout. nine0005
Small square kitchen layout
For kitchens where all the walls are the same length, the U-shaped design is ideal.
In this case, one of the corners of the working triangle will be right. It is desirable to leave a place by the window for washing, and place the stove and refrigerator symmetrically, closer to the center of the blank walls. This will provide quick access to the three main items.
An L-shaped layout can be chosen if you want to leave a free corner for the dining area. In this case, the sink is installed in the corner, and the rest - on opposite sides of it. nine0005
Layout of a narrow (rectangular) small kitchen
If the kitchen is narrow, then linear or parallel placement is the best choice for it. In the first version, the headset, along with work surfaces, is placed along one long wall, in the second, it is better to place a sink and stove on one side, and a refrigerator and food cabinets on the opposite side.
Layout of a small kitchen of irregular shape
The open plan kitchen, characteristic of studio apartments, allows for any convenient layout system.
For example, if the cooking area is separated from the living room by a countertop with a built-in hob and sink, you get an island type; if this partition has the shape of a semicircle - oval. nine0005
Interesting design options can be made if the architecture of the room contains niches, bay windows or ledges. To do this, you need furniture made according to an individual sketch.
Interior style
Adhering to the geometry and color scheme of one of the styles below, the interior of the kitchen can be made as beautiful and functional as possible.
Provence style small kitchen
Provence style is characterized by pastel shades, elegant floral ornaments and vintage enameled furniture. In general, this design leaves an impression of tenderness and lightness. nine0005
Small modern style kitchen
Innovative materials, multi-tasking technology, mirrored surfaces and clear lines are sure to add missing space to a small kitchen, and make the cooking process not only fast, but also enjoyable.
This is a universal solution for people who live in the rhythm of the 21st century.
Small loft style kitchen
The features of the loft are unfinished brick walls, open communications, rough furniture and a lot of space. A kitchen decorated in this style will appeal to freedom-loving creative individuals. nine0005
Small country style kitchen
Rustic style reminiscent of summer holidays, vacations and cottages. It has a lot of natural materials - solid wood furniture, stone-like tiles, plank floors are used. The oven can be stylized in the spirit of a real wood-burning stove, and the hood should be closed with an imitation of a chimney.
Small high-tech kitchen
The high-tech design of the kitchen includes mostly smooth surfaces, a lot of chrome elements, mirror inserts and tinted glass. Of the colors, glossy white and gray predominate, blotches of black or blue are also possible. nine0005
Scandinavian style small kitchen
Fashion for northern European design appeared with Ikea stores.
Scandinavian style is great for small spaces - all thanks to light winter colors combined with natural textures of granite and bleached wood.
Classic small kitchen
Symmetrical lines, soft glow and warm hues with golden accents make a classic-style kitchen an example of true harmony. Such an environment would be quite appropriate in a small space, visually enlarge and decorate it. nine0005
Small minimalist kitchen
The motto of minimalism - the more inconspicuous, the better. Smooth surfaces of kitchen furniture and appliances seem to merge with the rest of the finish. No bright details, decor or open shelves - only perfect cleanliness and correct lines.
Color solutions for a small kitchen
Each shade carries certain information that is subconsciously perceived by a person. So, for example, white and pastel colors are reminiscent of clear sunny days; saturated - attract attention; dark - as if hiding the outlines of objects in the darkness.
Having carefully studied the spectrum, the experts deduced certain rules that should be followed when decorating small rooms. The main ones are to use mostly a light palette and use no more than 3 colors at the same time. nine0005
White kitchen
An all-white kitchen will always look clean and tidy. To make it feel like home, you can add wooden textures, and gray additions will help make the cleaning process easier.
Gray kitchen
The neutral hue of stones and steel is the perfect solution for a discreet design in a small kitchen. It is easy to pick up any modern technology to it. If desired, the gray color is successfully diluted with more saturated inclusions from the rainbow palette. nine0005
Beige kitchen
Many people love the shade of cappuccino for its practicality. It is quite soft, as well as a warm color, on which spots are almost invisible. White and brown elements look good in a beige environment.
Yellow kitchen
A small kitchen in yellow tones has every chance of becoming the most favorite place in the house.
Moderately bright, this color creates a good mood and warms even on cloudy days. Yellow goes well with white, light gray, green, and most pastel colors. nine0005
Green kitchen
Cheerful shades of spring foliage will create a cozy and peaceful atmosphere in the kitchen. The green color is ideally complemented by brown and gray, and especially by the pattern of natural wood.
Finishing a small kitchen
The role of finishing in the interior of the kitchen is difficult to overestimate. The quality of the materials determines how durable the repair will be, and their appearance directly affects the aesthetics and comfort of the room.
Floor
nine0002 Given the intensity of use, the floor covering in the cooking area should be as durable as possible, resistant to moisture, easy to clean and, preferably, not slippery. These criteria are best met by linoleum, porcelain stoneware, ceramic tiles, as well as a self-leveling floor based on polymer resins.
In order not to "break" an already cramped space into even smaller areas, the coating should be made plain, and the elements should be chosen large and glossy.
Walls
For wall decoration in a small kitchen, you can use moisture-resistant painting (latex and acrylic water-dispersion paints with the addition of anti-mold agents), fiberglass, washable vinyl wallpaper, plastic panels. nine0005
The area above the sink, stove and worktop should preferably be protected with a ceramic coating (tile, smooth artificial stone) or tempered tinted glass.
Ceiling
The best option for decorating the ceiling in a small kitchen is a light stretch film or simple painting. Fiberglass will help to level the surface, as well as avoid microcracks on the plaster.
The use of drywall (even the most moisture resistant) and suspended plastic panels is undesirable - this will reduce the height of the room. nine0005
Textile
Curtains in the kitchen should be used sparingly, because they not only get dirty quickly, absorb odors, but are also considered a fire hazard.
If the window faces south, a short translucent curtain (tulle) or a narrow strip of dense material hung like a visor will help protect against bright rays.
Venetian blinds and bamboo rolls are quite versatile options for small kitchens. Another convenient solution is folding Roman blinds. nine0005
Instead of difficult-to-care natural fabrics, it is better to give preference to synthetic textiles (polyester, nylon, lavsan) with water-repellent and fire-resistant impregnation.
Small kitchen furniture
When choosing furniture for your small kitchen, you should pay attention not only to the aesthetics of the design, but also to the build quality, ergonomics, and the type of materials used. All this will subsequently affect not only the functionality, but also the health of the inhabitants of the house. The dimensions must be adjusted according to the standards of the room, and the work surfaces must be raised to a level suitable for the height of the hostess.
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Kitchen set
As the most bulky and visible element, the set has a huge impact on the interior as a whole. In a small kitchen, it must be neat, with closed shelves, without noticeable reliefs and cracks. Monochromatic facades without handles will give the impression that this is not furniture at all, but just a wall, and thus facilitate the design of the room. Behind the doors it is desirable to hide the hood, pipes or overall equipment.
A simple design of a kitchen set can be modified with an interesting backsplash, for example by placing a narrow photo wallpaper with a panoramic view behind the glass or by making a colorful mosaic of pixel tiles. Being in a recess, this area will not be conspicuous, but will give the workspace its own zest. nine0005
Dining area
Great luck if the kitchen has enough space for a full dining area. Alas, small-sized rooms can not always boast of such an addition. In this case, you will have to look for an alternative!
A good solution to save space in a small kitchen can be a narrow bar counter with high stools, folding and folding structures.
The window sill can also play the role of a dining table if it is raised with metal brackets to the desired height. nine0005
It is also possible to equip a family dining area on an insulated loggia or in a bay window recess.
Storage systems
Built-in drawers, pull-out shelves, hooks and magnets on the doors, spinning corner carousels - all this will allow you to conveniently place all your kitchen utensils.
Place pots, bowls and cutlery close to the sink; frying pans, baking sheets and forms should be hidden near the oven, and it is advisable to store bulk products in dry upper cabinets. nine0005
For the most beautiful items, one or two sections can be distinguished, closed with transparent partitions - things left on open shelves will quickly fall into dust, condensate and drops of fat will settle on them.
Refrigerator Placement Ideas
So that the refrigerator does not take up much space in your small kitchen, you should choose a tall, narrow model with a flat door.
Its snow-white surface will ideally fit into the same furniture wall, and chrome-plated or polished steel color will perfectly complement the high-tech interior, echoing other large appliances. nine0005
The compact built-in camera is also ideal for small spaces. It can be placed under the countertop, or raised to a convenient height and hidden behind the facade of the kitchen set.
Proper lighting in the kitchen
Even in a small cooking area, it is preferable to use many light sources. Mortise point diodes are best suited for this purpose - they consume little electricity, last a long time and withstand high humidity. Due to the low power and fire safety, LED-luminaires can be mounted in a headset (the main thing is to securely isolate the wiring). nine0005
Hanging chandeliers in a small kitchen can get in the way, but if you still decide to use them, for example, over the dining area, it is better to stay on the simplest ceiling lamps, which will then be easy to wipe off the dust.
In the center of the room, it is desirable to hang a ceiling lamp with a smooth surface.
Integration with other premises
Expanding a small kitchen with adjoining spaces is a great way to use every centimeter of free space efficiently. By completely or partially removing the internal partition, a cramped room can easily be turned into a beautiful and modern studio. nine0005
Combination of a small kitchen with a living room
If the wall between the kitchen and the living room is not load-bearing, it should be removed. Thus, you will get a very convenient cooking area. At the same time, it is important to install a powerful hood so that the smell and steam from the stove do not spread throughout the house.
A high bar counter will help visually zone the room, which can be used as a table and worktop at the same time.
Combination of a small kitchen with a balcony or loggia
A small kitchen with access to the loggia is a real success, because it is at least 2 sq.
