Narrow kitchens designs ideas
10 ways to maximize space and interest |
Middle kitchen: Industville/Classic Interiors
(Image credit: Future)
Not all homes come with vast open spaces. Our narrow kitchen ideas are perfect for those not blessed with a large and sociable space.
If you have a long, narrow kitchen, then you’ll be more than aware of the tricky task of making it a long kitchen look wider than it actually is, while desperately searching for interior designer tricks to make your space look beautiful as well as functional.
So much has changed in the way in which we design and use our kitchens over the last decade or so, but there is something reassuring in how narrow kitchen ideas and layouts have adapted – and thrived – in the modern home.
Narrow kitchen ideas – maximize space in a long kitchen layout
If your kitchen is on the narrow side, there is plenty to feel positive about. With some clever tricks of the trade, there are in fact multiple small kitchen ideas that wall help turn that awkward kitchen layout into something stylish and sophisticated, so don’t give up just yet.
1. Invest in bespoke cabinets if you have an awkward layout
(Image credit: Polly Eltes)
While the average kitchen consists of four straight-ish walls and a series of cubes, not all rooms are so accommodating. Narrow kitchen ideas might be more time consuming to plan but, with careful management and expert advice, seemingly negative constructional quirks can be turned to your advantage.
Bespoke kitchen cabinet ideas really come into its own here, making the best use of space, and working with unusual angles and curves while neatly stepping around trickier features. It's important not to see a difficult space, but rather the opportunity to create something unique.
'Built-in cabinets gives people precisely what they require, says Charlotte Crosland, founder, Charlotte Crosland Interiors . 'It works particularly well in those areas that are awkwardly shaped and fits different requirements such as more shelving or extra drawers for small kitchen appliances, fine china and extra cutlery.
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2. Use every inch of space in a galley kitchen
(Image credit: Haris Kenjar)
‘I love a classic galley kitchen idea,’ enthuses Seattle-based designer Heidi Caillier . ‘They just feel so intimate and special, and there is something very appealing about them practically. They force you to be thoughtful in how you lay out every inch, and I also like the mentality of using all of your kitchen versus just that one corner between the range and the sink.’
In the right colors, in this case Farrow & Ball’s French Gray, Heidi also believes that galley kitchens can feel really cozy, ‘like a warm, inviting cocoon’. A mix of kitchen cabinets and open kitchen shelving ideas will ensure it feels light and airy.
3. Use an island to separate an open plan space
(Image credit: Mark Bolton)
In recent years, a third galley scenario has evolved. 'Modern galley kitchens can be part of a much larger space featuring a wall-hugging galley run with a long island running parallel, separating a living or dining area beyond,' explains Paul O’Brien, director, Kitchens International .
Although following the double galley footprint, it feels different, as it is a lighter, more open and more sociable space.
4. Plan for cabinetry without handles
(Image credit: Future / James Merrell)
Create a feeling of spaciousness by opting for sleek, handleless units, pale-colored finishes and glossy, light-reflecting surfaces, with clutter kept to a minimum. Technological advances in push-open and close doors means that it has become possible to dispense with handles in both wall and base cabinets.
A handleless scheme, particularly one in a cool white kitchen , can appear clinical, so adding a few natural materials will give it a softer edge. Think about including colorful kitchen rug ideas or patterned kitchen backsplash ideas.
5. Use lighting to your advantage
(Image credit: Artemide)
When space to wow is limited, look upward for inspiration. In this narrow, galley kitchen in Copenhagen a pair of outsized designer suspension lights by Artemide take full advantage of the room’s epic height, while the arctic white ceiling cuts a crisp note against mossy green walls.
Natural wood in rich tones has a cosying effect; note how Dinesen’s plank flooring has been carried onto the backsplash to take the timber higher without reducing the room’s width. For extra character, the hand-welded sink area in darkened brass will age and patina with time and use.
6. Create a space for dining
(Image credit: OWO)
Galley kitchens are celebrated for their cooking efficiency but they’re usually found in enclosed rooms and therefore not the most sociable of arrangements. If you have sufficient length available, a banquette-style nook or breakfast bar is a great way to provide somewhere for people to chat, without interrupting culinary progress. The key is to choose a table that won’t impede access into the heart of the small kitchen.
Here, a built-in seat with storage above and below means the dining area doesn’t steal precious cupboard space, and the table and stools can easily be pushed in tight when not required.
7. Extend in glass
(Image credit: Future)
Natural light is everything when you’re cooking in narrow confines.
A lean-to glazed kitchen extension idea has added precious dining space to this narrow kitchen, while opening the views out to the garden all year round.
‘The eye is drawn to the light and the dining area, which is used by the whole family throughout the day and has become the focal point within this bright, open space,’ explains Lisa Morton, director, Vale Garden Houses . Bold chequered flooring, installed diagonally, has a widening effect, while helping to disguise an unavoidable step between the original and new living spaces.
8. Consider the layout – and remove obstacles
(Image credit: Future / Jonathan Gooch)
When trying to make the most of limited space, take time to consider the natural flow through rooms, recommends Victoria Wormsley of French-Brooks Interiors . ‘Think about how people are going to pass through the space and ask if you really need each and every door (but be aware that some will need to be retained for fire regulations, particularly when it comes to narrow kitchens).
Where possible, remove doors and architraves to improve the flow.’
9. Clear the clutter in a narrow kitchen
(Image credit: Future / Jan Baldwin)
One way to create the illusion of space in a narrow kitchen is to rid the countertop areas of clutter but be realistic before setting out. It’s never going to be entirely possible to live without various small useful things, which need storing away somewhere, believes Sandrine Zhang Ferron, founder of Vinterior . ‘So create small areas of small kitchen storage ideas that are both practical and add style to your home, from roomier pieces like kitchen cabinets down to biscuit tins to squeeze into a corner.’
10. Put color and lighting at the forefront
(Image credit: Future/James Merrell)
Well-chosen kitchen color ideas can work wonders in disguising awkward or narrow kitchen space. Judy Smith of Crown Paint , says the best approach is to paint the shell of the room white, which will open up the space, then to apply concentrated color to key focal points.
'Choose the most attractive features in the room then paint these in contrasting shades to make them stand out. This will also pull the emphasis away from less attractive elements.'
Another saviour is kitchen lighting, which can give a low ceiling a sense of height or put strange angles in the shadows. A lighting designer will be able to advise on everything from high-precision controls to the most suitable color for bulbs. 'In an awkwardly shaped kitchen, flexible lighting can be adjusted to control the direction and spread of light effectively.'
How can I make the most of my narrow kitchen?
With careful planning, narrow kitchens are ideal spaces for cooks. Efficient and compact, they need fewer steps to get around and make the most of a restricted space.
'Galleys can be really stylish. Long lines of countertops create strong horizontal planes that look incredibly sleek,' says Hugo Tugman, chairman and founder of Architect Your Home.
A one-wall galley is best suited to one person cooking, as it requires linear movement from one activity to the next.
For ease of use, separate the cooking and wet zones by a reasonable length of worktop but, if possible, avoid putting the sink and cooker at opposite ends of the room.
'You’ll gain wide work surfaces but may feel very cramped when cooking or washing up,' explains Graeme Smith, conceptual designer at Second Nature Kitchen s. A double galley allows the traditional work triangle, with a cooker and fridge on one side and the sink opposite, and gives more room for two cooks to work together.
In recent years, a further galley scenario has evolved. 'Modern galley kitchens can be part of a much larger space featuring a wall-hugging galley run with a long island running parallel, separating a living or dining area beyond,' says Paul O’Brien, director of Kitchens International. Although conforming to the double-galley footprint, it feels different, as it is a lighter, more open and more sociable space.
What is a narrow kitchen called?
A narrow kitchen is often referred to as a galley kitchen.
The galley kitchen layout is one of the classics in kitchen design and takes its name from a ship’s kitchen, which was traditionally squeezed into a long narrow space but needed to be super efficient. In today’s homes, the two options – single galley comprising one long run of units, or double galley with parallel runs – give rise to a particularly efficient cooking space.
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.
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.
78 interior photos, renovation ideas
In standard city apartments, the area of the kitchen does not always meet the wishes of the owners.
Residents of high-rise buildings often face the problem of cramped space, but in the cooking area it is felt most acutely. You can improve the situation with the help of special design techniques that allow you to make a narrow kitchen as comfortable and beautiful as possible. nine0005
Narrow kitchen features
A room twice as long or more than wide, more like a corridor than a living space. This is especially true for the “window opposite the door” options. The only exception is open areas in studios, but completely different design laws apply to them.
The area of a narrow kitchen can be different - somewhere a miniature set will hardly fit, in others there will be enough square meters for a full-fledged dining table. Sometimes the space can be slightly expanded by combining it with a living room or a balcony, but in most cases you have to put up with what you have. To be comfortable in a narrow kitchen, it is very important to properly equip it. nine0005
An elongated room sets a list of requirements for a design project.
Firstly, it is necessary to balance the proportions, visually push the walls and raise the ceiling; secondly, it should be easy to cook in such a kitchen, that is, attention should be paid to the ergonomics of the processes; thirdly, the aesthetic side is of great importance. Only an integrated approach can satisfy all these criteria, when every little thing is thought out in advance, and the choice of finishes, furniture and appliances is carried out according to a pre-approved plan. nine0005
Interior styles
Taking into account the specifics of a corridor-type kitchen, not so many style solutions are suitable for its design. The smaller the dimensions of the room, the more modest the interior should look. A restrained color palette, smooth textures, a minimum of protrusions and all kinds of decor are the key to a space that is not overloaded with details, in which all family members will enjoy spending time.
Modern style narrow kitchen
Reflects the fast pace of life and the high development of technology in the 21st century.
In such an interior, everything is clear and concise: kitchen utensils and products are hidden behind neat facades of the headset, built-in appliances flawlessly and quietly perform their functions, and all surfaces without exception remain perfectly clean. The minimalistic design in light achromatic colors is the best choice for a narrow kitchen of the most compact dimensions, thanks to which the cooking process will become easy and enjoyable. nine0005
Scandinavian style narrow kitchen
It was borrowed from the traditional home environment of the inhabitants of the Nordic countries - Sweden, Denmark and Norway. Due to the abundance of white and gray-blue colors, it leaves the impression of a boundless expanse of snow-capped mountains, and interspersed with natural wood and ethnic motifs create a warm homely atmosphere. The narrow kitchen, decorated in a Scandinavian style, looks airy and bright, so being in it is a real pleasure for any hostess. nine0005
Loft style narrow kitchen
One of the most organic solutions for an extended space.
Industrial features in the design fully justify the non-standard layout. It may seem that in the place of this strange kitchen there really was an industrial workshop, a pantry or a corridor. Simple masonry and concrete finishes, exposed steel pipes, rough-hewn boards, homemade furniture made from scrap materials will make the cooking place completely individual, and the owners will be able to show creativity and courage to go against the generally accepted norms. nine0005
Provence style narrow kitchen
Provencal style, with its delicate pastel shades and vintage modesty of decor, will help to create a soft atmosphere of a French village in the kitchen. Wooden furniture painted with light matte enamel, whitewashed walls and ceiling, porcelain sets on open shelves, unobtrusive prints in the form of wild flowers, birds, lace will be appropriate here. However, it is better to save the drawings for small elements - window curtains, an apron, sets of dishes, and it is advisable to leave the rest of the surfaces plain.
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Color combinations in the interior of a narrow kitchen
The choice of colors for a narrow kitchen is one of the most crucial moments. By combining tones according to all the rules of decoration, a long room can be visually expanded, bringing its geometry closer to the desired shape. But the more modest the dimensions of the room, the more careful you should be with bright and saturated shades. So that the kitchen does not seem colorful, it is recommended to avoid contrasts, even if we are talking about a banal black and white checkerboard. Eye-catching elements should be located near narrow walls, but sometimes an emphasis in the center is necessary for zoning a space, for example, dividing it into a working and dining area. nine0005
Achromatic
Combinations of white, gray and black in an elongated kitchen always look very stylish. They can be diluted with natural wood countertops, small bright details (apron, separate cabinet doors, refrigerator), colored dishes and decor.
Cold
Quite often used in the design of narrow rooms. Pastel blotches on a matte white background are a good option for an airy Provence, country, marine, Scandinavian style. However, the base may well be colored: in a long kitchen, light gray, pale blue, olive, lavender, beige will look beautiful. All these shades are easily combined with each other, but no more than 2-3 in one room. nine0005
Warm
They are best created using wood textures and ocher, brick tones. In such a palette, the lightest shades can be represented by milky white, lemon, peach, greenish khaki, and the darkest shades can be represented by brown coffee and chocolate. Well complement the warm range of red, yellow, green, from metals - gold and bronze.
Finish
In addition to the standard requirements for quality, safety and durability, the materials used for finishing a narrow kitchen must meet certain aesthetic requirements. In such rooms, colorful drawings, large decor and rich contrasts are completely undesirable.
It is better to leave all this for overly spacious rooms, and decorate a small cooking area elegantly and discreetly. nine0005
Ceiling
The optimal solution for finishing the ceiling area in a narrow space is a flat, light surface. Depending on the chosen style, you can stop at a matte, satin or mirror texture. Volumetric plasterboard structures, as well as two-tiered perimeter frames, are usually not suitable for such cases. The only exception is a large narrow kitchen with a high ceiling, which can be visually zoned with a square shape and floating lighting. nine0005
Walls
When it comes to a small space, the walls in it should be as simple as possible. Light monochromatic painting or the same wallpaper is an excellent basic option. To avoid the "train" effect, it is not recommended to use horizontal patterns on long walls, including stripes. At the same time, a pronounced vertical, whether it is an insert of a rich shade, some large image, or, for example, a red refrigerator against a white headset, will help balance the geometry of the kitchen.
A free wall can be visually moved away if you stick photo wallpapers on it with a realistic perspective directed inward. nine0005
Apron
In addition to its direct purpose - to protect the wall near the stove, sink and worktop from splashes - this element is one of the most significant decorations of the kitchen. There are no special rules for its design in narrow rooms - it all depends on the preferences of the owners and the style as a whole. However, it is advisable to avoid placing horizontal borders and catchy drawings on the apron. Medium-sized brick or stone masonry, tiles of related shades, square mosaic, fashionable patchwork, glass with mirror illumination will look much better. nine0005
Sex
When finishing the floor in a narrow room, preference should be given to non-contrasting small and medium-sized textures. They should be in harmony with the rest of the design, be comfortable to use and not attract much attention.
Parquet boards and rectangular tiles should be laid parallel to narrow walls - this way the room will appear more spacious.
Square elements are best placed diagonally, in the form of diamonds, but they should be close in color, and not resemble a chessboard. Quite interestingly, a stylized “path” made of tiles, laminate or linoleum can look quite interesting on the floor of a narrow kitchen, but, again, colorful contrasts should be avoided. nine0005
Kitchen furniture
There are few options for arranging furniture in a compressed space. One way or another, the headset is installed along one or both long walls. In very rare cases, if the footage allows, there is an island layout. However, the place near the window deserves special attention - it is too often ignored, and in terms of design this is one of the most interesting segments of the narrow kitchen.
So, the first thing to consider is the possibility of arranging at least a minimal dining area next to the window. A transforming window sill may well act as a table. If desired, it can be easily turned into a comfortable sofa, and for serving dishes, use the protruding tabletop of the L-shaped set.
A rather interesting option for using a place near the window is a dining area, reminiscent of a side reserved seat on a train. nine0005
In case of a lack of free space in the kitchen, folding, retractable, mobile pieces of furniture will be a real salvation. Instead of bulky stools, you can purchase compact bar stools, bulky cabinets-tabletops can be replaced with lightweight structures with wall mounts.
The ideal set for a long cramped kitchen should be with smooth facades, without pretentious decor and sharp contrasts. Options without handles, with magnetic fasteners will look very modern. The height up to the ceiling will help to compensate for the narrowed format of the cabinets. A built-in storage system with a mezzanine can also be equipped around the window opening - this way the space will be used even more efficiently. nine0005
Narrow kitchen design - photo
The design of a narrow kitchen is a real challenge for designers, craftsmen and just owners of this type of premises.
But a huge number of implemented projects proves that it is more than realistic to convert a “corridor” room into a stylish and comfortable cooking area. The photo gallery on our website will help you to make sure of this and find inspirational ideas for the upcoming renovation. Choose the option you like, and let the new kitchen be better than in the most beautiful pictures. nine0005
60+ photo examples, solutions for the most complex layouts
Kitchens in typical houses often have a disproportionate configuration. Under these conditions, the owner of the apartment will have to try to plan a convenient and functional design of the kitchen space - so that the set fits in and there is a place to gather the family in the evening. However, in narrow kitchens you can equip a comfortable environment. nine0005
Contents
Design features of a narrow kitchen
In order not to look too gloomy in a long kitchen, it is worth giving preference to wallpaper in pastel colors.
It will look good white in a milky shade, as well as peach and cream tones.
If the kitchen is very long, a bright picture can be placed on one wall as an accent, which will visually divide the room. nine0005
Furniture in a narrow kitchen will also look better with light fronts. However, this is not an axiom. The combined version will also look great, when the lower cabinets are made in deep bright light, and the facades of the upper ones are lighter.
Light facades and walls of the same color visually expand the kitchen.An important role is given to the choice of flooring. The main task of finishing the kitchen is the visual expansion of the room. If you decide to use floor tiles, you can lay them diagonally. nine0005
If laminate is used, lay it perpendicular to the longest wall. The dark color of the floor will add a little depth and height to the room, and the light color will brighten the perception of the long kitchen tunnel.
Stretch ceilings are the best choice for ceilings. The lower they are, the lighter the shade should be.
For example, with low ceilings, glossy PVC stretch ceilings will look good and visually enlarge the room due to the reflective surface. High ceilings can be decorated with canvases with stained glass or linear patterns. nine0005 The light ceiling does not distract attention and gives the kitchen extra volume.
Which layout to choose for a narrow kitchen
There are several layout solutions for narrow kitchens.
Linear layout
The saddest option is a very narrow kitchen. In such it is impossible even to combine the dining area with a suite stretched along one wall. The refrigerator is placed in one row with the headset, usually near the entrance.
Such a kitchen is also inconvenient because the hostess has to wind extra meters while cooking, constantly moving between the refrigerator, sink, stove and work table.
nine0005 Placing a headset along one wall is the most obvious solution, but not ergonomic.
Such kitchens are so narrow that in order to create a comfortable environment it is necessary to move the dining area into an adjacent room. The only alternative is a narrow transformer table or a tabletop folding from the wall like a bar counter.
Several tricks will help brighten up the tunnel syndrome:
- place a TV on the wall above the entrance;
- stick a kitchen-themed mural on the opposite wall from the set; nine0128
- Use wallpaper with vertical stripes or vertical patterns to shorten the room a bit.
Parallel layout
This can be called a kitchen in which a kitchen set will fit on both sides or there is a place to place a dining area opposite the furniture.
In such a room, it is already possible to more conveniently arrange the working area - move the stove with a refrigerator in front of the sink.
The main thing is that the width of the passage should not be less than 90 cm. You can, on the contrary, build up the kitchen up, solving the problem of storage at the same time.
Rarely used household appliances or dishes can be stored in an additional row of drawers under the ceiling. So that the boxes do not hang over your head, it is better to order a set with light wall cabinets.
Light furniture will not "crush" in an already very limited space.U-kitchen
You can arrange the furniture set with the letter U in kitchens that are closer to the square. In this case, the window sill is removed and a working area with a sink is installed in its place. nine0005 A lack of planning can easily be turned into an advantage by moving the sink.
For the hostess, this option is the most convenient in terms of cooking and storage. But to create a eating area, you will have to use again either a narrow table along the wall or a transforming table.
However, planning problems can be solved by placing a dining area near the window and placing a corner sofa there.
At the same time, work surfaces should end in front of the dining area.
This is another planning option, acceptable in cases where the door to the kitchen from the corridor is not installed in the center of the wall, but asymmetrically.
There are 2 options for furniture placement:
- The set forms an angle near the entrance, and a dining table is placed near the window.
- The set forms a corner near the window (the window sill is removed and a working area is put in its place). A narrow dining table is placed near the free wall.
In conclusion, some general tips for planning a narrow kitchen:
- Move the eating area to a separate dining room. In order not to interfere with the doors when serving dishes, replace them with sliding ones.
- A bar along the wall will help solve the problem of daily lunches and breakfasts. Guests will be received in the living room.
- Corner sofa and stools take up less space than a table with chairs. nine0128
- If cabinets cover part of the doorway, just narrow it by 25-30cm. This will solve the problem and there will be no need to puzzle over planning decisions.
- Buy narrower kitchen sets - they will widen the aisle and leave room for the table.
- Provide additional lighting - it is unlikely that one ceiling lamp can provide the necessary level of illumination. You can stretch 2 rows of spotlights along the ceiling or separately illuminate the work area with lamps located at the bottom of wall cabinets. nine0128
Narrow kitchen with a window
The window in the narrow kitchen is the only source of natural light, so it needs to be groomed and cherished. Curtains should be short and translucent, blinds should be light.
Since the window seat is functionally important, it does not need to be littered with curtains.
Near the window in the narrow kitchen, you can install a dining table with a kitchen sofa. You can zone the site with the help of lighting - put a couple of rows of spotlights along the ceiling along the working areas, and hang a long beautiful chandelier above the dining area. nine0005
If the dining area is taken out into the dining room or placed along the wall, this place can be used more functionally. If you install a desktop near the window and combine the countertop and window sill under a common countertop-window sill made of artificial stone, such an area can look really luxurious.
A large window expands the kitchen, letting in light and dividing a long wall into sections. A bold option is to move the sink to the window. Of course, it will be necessary to provide for the redevelopment of the water supply system.
As for the radiator, you can make a cabinet for it with holes in the doors. The efficiency of the radiator, of course, will decrease in this case. nine0005
If the kitchen faces north or is located on a windy top floor, you can move the radiator to an open wall. To prevent the faucet from interfering with opening the sash, install a bayonet faucet model that can be removed and laid on its side.
Tastefully selected set, lighting and accessories will make even the most inconvenient narrow kitchen cozy and chic.Narrow kitchen with a sofa
A narrow cozy sofa will increase the number of seats at a narrow table and take up little space. This is a great alternative to a table with interfering chairs. nine0005
You can place the sofa along the window, creating a separate dining area. To fit into the style ensemble, the upholstery must match the color scheme of the table.
Light range - the most suitable for furniture in a narrow room.Narrow kitchen with a balcony
The balcony in the kitchen is a real planning find.
In the kitchen with a balcony, a full-fledged place for the dining area appears. First, you will have to perform work on combining the balcony with the kitchen: remove the balcony door with a window, insulate and glaze the balcony, and conduct wiring there. nine0005
Panoramic glazing will allow you to admire the city landscapes while eating. The remaining wall can be used as a table for serving dishes and dirty dishes, or you can remove it by moving the radiator to a free wall. Then in the vacant place you can put a bar counter.
If there is a balcony next to the kitchen, then it can take on part of the load of furniture and appliances.Balcony-dining room - the best option for using additional space that does not require additional refurbishment. If the balcony is narrow, in any case, it will help expand the space for the dining area. nine0005
If a spacious loggia is adjacent to the kitchen, then a full-fledged dining room can be equipped there. In this case, 2 zones can be separated by an arch or transparent sliding doors.
Please note that any redevelopment work requires a permit. Especially it is necessary if you assume that someday you will sell an apartment.
Attaching a balcony and placing a dining group on it is the most logical solution for a narrow kitchen.Narrow kitchen-living room
If you are lucky enough to become owners of a narrow kitchen-living room, you will have to reconsider the principles of furniture placement. All furniture should not be placed parallel to a long wall, because in this way the room will stretch even more.
A long set and a longitudinal arrangement of floorboards are the two main mistakes in arranging a narrow kitchen. It is advisable to zone the room with furniture.You can consider the option of a kitchen with an island. The island can be used as a work surface, or you can install a hob on it. nine0005
The essence of this arrangement is the installation of large objects across the room: sofas, an island. A narrow room will seem more proportional.
It is possible to divide the room into 2 zones: make a kitchen at a distance closer to the window, and arrange a living room closer to the entrance, or vice versa, dividing 2 zones with a bar counter.
Sofa by the window - a romantic variety in the interior of the kitchen.Small narrow kitchen
Small narrow kitchen is the most complex layout option.
First, you need to try a variant cardinally:
- organize a dining room in the next room;
- demolish the partition with the next room and make a combined kitchen/dining room;
- move the partition deeper into the next room, expanding the kitchen and reducing the room;
- if there is a balcony, combine the room with a balcony;
- extend the kitchen with a corridor.
- buy a narrow kitchen set, and for eating, arrange a narrow reclining table from the wall.
