Open small kitchen design

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.

Advertisement - Continue Reading Below

60

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.

59

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.

Advertisement - Continue Reading Below

58

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 »

57

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.

Advertisement - Continue Reading Below

56

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 »

55

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.

Advertisement - Continue Reading Below

54

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.

53

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 »

Advertisement - Continue Reading Below

52

Hang Rattan Pendants

The natural tones in rattan pendants add warmth, but the open and airy construction welcome breeziness into any small space.

51

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.

tiny kitchen design and decor |

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.

(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: 30 ideas • Interior+Design

Design

Small kitchen by Kapsimalis Architects: cave house in Santorini.

INT2architecture project. In a black minimalist box, technical functions are grouped: a bathroom, a boiler room, a kitchen, and storage. Kitchen. The design of the block is designed by architects and manufactured by Giulia Novars. Bosch household appliances.

The authors of the project are the architects of the Moscow bureau Le Atelier (Sergey Kolchin, Nadezhda Torshina, Natalya Senyugina). The kitchen is small but enough for two.

Malika Boranbayeva's project: an apartment for a confectioner. The main area is given over to the kitchen-dining room. Thanks to the laconic facades of kitchen furniture and the absence of upper cabinets, the space seems even freer. Ikea kitchen has been updated with handmade Tile Atelier tiles.

In-Deco studio project. Bright accents - red bar stools, diz. K. Grcic for Magis. Kitchen. Furniture according to the sketches of the authors of the project.

Compact spaces are the forte of Spaniards Elii Architects. They called the project of an apartment in Madrid Yojigen Poketto/4D pocket - referring to the anime character Doraemon the cyber cat: the apartment has secret hatches and disappearing objects.

Buro5: project of a small apartment in Moscow. Kitchen furniture "Maria's Kitchen", Smeg appliances. Handle Studio light.

Ukrainian architectural studio Orb designed an apartment for a millennial: the kitchen is part of the living room. The starting point for interior design was the image of a minimalist loft.

The design helps to effectively use even the most modest meters. A small kitchen and other spaces today are not only an unfortunate inevitability, but also a conscious choice.

Related: Kitchens for small apartments

This Parisian apartment in the Trocadero district was renovated by the great French designer Rodolphe Parant. The coffered ceilings were restored in the kitchen. But the kitchen itself was actually hidden behind a false door.

In an era of urbanization and lack of space, the Soft Minimal trend is relevant: people are trying to get by with less without cluttering up already small apartments. Designers offer multifunctional, adaptable solutions and rely on transformable items, well-defined clear lines, honest materials, and a natural palette. They develop kitchen collections for microspaces, like the Japanese brand Sanwa. Visually add meters to a small kitchen, using light colors and "dissolving" furniture in space. They try to win the area (especially when the apartment is small) by combining the kitchen and living areas. Or they take the opposite path - they add bright colors, catchy accents that divert attention from a modest footage.

A small apartment can become a design masterpiece. Young authors from Batiik Studio placed everything you need on an area of ​​11 square meters. meters and developed a functional design of a small kitchen.

Maria Pilipenko: apartment 27 sq. m in Petersburg. Kitchen set with facades under concrete: Dom-M company. The breakfast stand is made to order according to the designer's sketches by BetOn.spb. Stools Loft Design. Bra Danish store.

Visiting designer Didier Gomez. Ceiling lamp Parachute, diz. N. Young, Cinna.

INT2architecture project. Kitchen Design. All kitchen furniture in the photo is made of metal, originally intended for industrial purposes.

Garry Nuriev's project. The pink color is unexpectedly appropriate in the loft: it softens its brutality and looks very beautiful against the black background.

Project by Natalia Pantyukhina. Kitchen. The furniture was made from standard Aster Cucine elements, but it looks non-standard: the authors re-arranged the modules, knocking down the rhythm of horizontals and verticals. The bar counter is made to order from cast iron. Bar stools Unika Moblar. Hood Rossana.

Designed by Vladimir Berezin. Kitchen. Inexpensive IKEA kitchen set. Built-in wardrobes are made to order. Woody table. Chairs Kartell. Blanco faucets. Pendant lamp Flos.

Project by Vadim Maltsev. A photo from the 2011 Pirelli calendar created by Karl Lagerfeld was placed in the kitchen area. Kitchen Miton, table and chairs Gubi.

Project by Tatiana Stratu. Countertop in the working area and on the bar counter made of artificial stone.

Project by Natalia Maslova. On the floor, Striato Elegante marble has a velvety texture, pleasant and warm to the touch. The project used household appliances Miele, Gaggenau.

Project MS-A. The architects used every opportunity to organize storage. Volumes are created both inside the column and inside the custom-made table: it is convenient to hold cutlery in it. Chairs Calligaris.

Milan house of Ruben Modigliani and Luca Visconti.

Project by Natalia Belugina. Kitchen-dining area. Built-in furniture, wall panels, Beluginaart. Lighting, Illuminaty, Ecola. Decor, Eichholtz.

Project by Sergey Klochkov. The compact, laconic kitchen was designed by the architect and integrated into the living room space as discreetly as possible.

Project by Irina Krasheninnikova. Breakfast table: Fineobjects (Russia). Wooden chair: vintage, redesigned by I. Krasheninnikova.

Project by Totan Kuzembaev. Sliding panels made of frosted glass protect the kitchen from the sun, act as curtains and create beautiful diffused light.

Project by Anastasia Komarova, kitchen-dining room. Kitchen set, Mobalpa. Lamp, Restoration Hardware. Textile, de Le Cuona.

Project by Veronika Sudnikova. The kitchen, which is small in size, is densely equipped: three walls are given to cabinets (preference was given to furniture from Euromobil) There are no windows: daylight penetrates from the living room through the bar counter. Floor: Porcelanosa porcelain stoneware.

Project by Olga Engel. The kitchen set is small and compact. The kitchen with a small table is located next to the living room behind glass doors. Kitchen set, Häcker Küchen.

Author:

Photo:

share:

FB TW OK

#kitchen

#Interior

#Little apartments

#Digest

002 #Kitchens

#Kitchens

#Interiors

#Small Apartments

#digest

#Kitchens

More

Design

Small kitchen design. Blog about the kitchen

It is a mistake to approach the design of a small kitchen, trying to place standard furniture modules and decorative furniture elements in it. A small kitchen is a room with its own characteristics, which must be taken into account along with the usual rhythm of life of the family for which this kitchen is intended. Friends of our company - architects Anna Fadeeva and Vladimir Gerasimov - who have already advised us on the layout of kitchens, told us how to approach this task as well.

Gerasimov Vladimir Yurievich

architect, designer, artist

Creative credo: "Emotional design is the shortest way to the result." The space is three-dimensional, therefore, to create a full-fledged design of the environment, it is necessary to have the skills of an architect, decorator and artist. Only a combination of knowledge, experience and talents will give a quality product, a creative tandem, a customer and a designer.

facebook page

Vladimir Gerasimov: “So that a small kitchen does not look like an elephant in a shop that overloads the space, every time we select a unique compositional structure, assembled from volumes, decor, and lighting. We strive to make the kitchen not resemble a kitchen, but rather an art object built into the space. We use all the latest innovations in technology, materials, and accessories.”

Anna Fadeeva: “It seems to me that there are no small kitchens;

How to visually enlarge the space in a small kitchen

Every second article recommends using mirrors for a small kitchen. Like, mirrors increase the space. But this advice is not unambiguous. Large mirrors that reflect a person in the kitchen are more likely to cause discomfort than to expand the space. In a small kitchen, mirrors next to the stove can be permanently unsightly due to splashes falling on them. All this also applies to glossy surfaces, which, by reflecting light, increase space and lighting. In order not to miscalculate, consider three important points.

Proper placement

Mirrors only really enlarge a space if they show you a reflection of a part of the room that you can't see for yourself at the moment.

Vladimir Gerasimov: “Mirrors are not an easy thing, especially if a person is among the mirrors. If the mirrors are in neighboring rooms - you are in the kitchen, and somewhere in the corridor or room, that's good. We see a part of the space that is not visible from the kitchen.”

Taking into account what will be reflected in a mirror or a glossy facade

If it happens that a public transport stop visible from the window is reflected in a glossy facade, then you made a mistake with the choice of material. It is unlikely that such a "landscape" in your kitchen will please you.

Vladimir Gerasimov: “Glossy surfaces are good only if you take into account what is reflected there. If there is a beautiful landscape outside the window, night, city and you saw a part of the city and forgot that this is a locker, then this is wonderful.

Reaching a compromise with your habits

It's impossible not to take care of kitchen appliances or furniture at all. As they say, beauty requires sacrifice. But you can always reduce the load and make your life easier by analyzing the reasons for the rapid contamination of kitchen surfaces.

“Yes, you can see fingerprints on the gloss, so teach yourself and your family to take hold of doorknobs or finger holes. First of all, you need to understand the source of dirt-grease-stains. Fry a lot, soar, everything splatters? Think about the right utensils, first. Secondly, if possible, do not hang cabinets in the hot cooking area, do not put a refrigerator next to it, and so on. It is really easier to wash off and remove from a smooth surface. Most often, the seams on the tiled backsplash suffer, so do not save on grouting and let the professionals do it.

What color solution to choose

The choice of color solution depends primarily on the illumination of the kitchen. If we are talking about a small kitchen in Khrushchev with one window, then, as a rule, the lighting in it is good, if there are no trees growing in front of the window or the window is not covered by the neighboring house. In this case, architects out loud recommend light shades and imitation of natural materials.

Anna Fadeeva

architect, designer, artist

I try not to repeat myself in my works. They are as individual as my clients. But there is a basic rule: the project must be safe and bring a sense of happiness. This concerns not only ergonomics and physiology, but, of course, visual aesthetics, beauty and imagery. Arrangements and mixes are possible if we compare architecture with music. New tastes are possible if we talk about the design process as a culinary and gastronomic art. In any case: whatever style and image it may sound, let your space be melodic and tasty!

facebook page

vk page

Anna Fadeeva: “From experience I can say that white kitchens behave perfectly, gray is impeccable. Fashionable and functional concrete, "rusty", "under the stone" or stone veneer - have proven themselves perfectly. Thanks to the heterogeneity of the texture and inclusions of various shades, your kitchen will not only be perfectly cleaned, but also durable.”

Vladimir Gerasimov: “But the colors are better to make calm, gray shades, warm gentle shades, maybe even more saturated, contrasting ones, but then a combination of both dark and light panels in the interior. In a bright kitchen, natural or natural materials look very good, stone, wood, even leather, metal, glass - tinted glass, frosted.

For a darkened kitchen, it is better to use light shades with bright, sunny accents. A good base for a dark room will be white.

How to decorate a small kitchen and what style to choose

In a small kitchen, you can and should take up space on the walls, using it not only for practical purposes, but also for decoration, creating style. Looks good kitchen utensils, suspended on rails and hooks. Of course, it is necessary to maintain the chosen style and select the appropriate utensils. If the kitchen is light, a large number of small objects will not give many shadows of their own. Open cabinets and shelves can become dust collectors if rarely used items are stored on them, or they can become a kitchen decoration.

Anna Fadeeva: “Cabinets are different for lockers. It happens that the composition itself or a style decision requires it, for example, in country interiors, plates are placed on open shelves, with cute tiny balustrades - yes. When there is a rhythm game of open-closed boxes, and in the niches there is a sculpture, books, intriguing lighting - yes. ”

Be sure to allow for room type and style when placing objects on the walls. If you have combined a small kitchen with a living room, then they must be maintained in the same style as the living room. And if the living room is modern, then trends dictate the need to hide the function of the kitchen, using as much as possible neutral furniture and a minimum of decor on the walls.

How to use lighting in a small kitchen

A small kitchen still needs artificial lighting in the evenings. Together with cooking, this can lead to significant heating of the ambient air in a small space. Responsibly approach the choice of lamps used.

Anna Fadeeva: “It's simple - do not use halogen lamps))). Manufacturers of LED lamps and lighting products offer a huge range of designs, applications, capacities. There should be at least two lighting groups - above the dining area and directly above the work surface. Other special effects are up to you, your architect/designer. Do not forget about decorative, night lighting, which will greatly enrich your space, saturate you with new emotions.”

How to fit everything you need and save space at the same time

As a rule, this issue significantly depends on the financial component and getting competent advice from specialists in kitchen appliances. For a long time there has been a technique that combines several functions, but it is not cheap. Therefore, if there is a budget, kitchen appliances will greatly help save space without losing functionality. If the budget is limited, you will have to think carefully about the space and check again if your requirements for technology are not excessive.

Vladimir Gerasimov: “A built-in refrigerator will take up less space. The microwave and oven can be placed in the same vertical, or you can buy an oven with a microwave function. Often they put a stove with 4 burners, but you can put 2. The hood can be built into the ceiling.

Another way to save space is to use convertible furniture.

Again, everything here depends on the budget - in the mass market you can find good universal solutions, but for non-standard tasks you have to make furniture to order. There are examples where the dining area is used for cooking. For example, in studio apartments. But in this case, try to fit the kitchen furniture into the surrounding space, taking into account the style of the living room furniture and all other rooms.

Anna Fadeeva: “There are manufacturers, furniture workshops, both ours and foreign ones, whose products are made exclusively for your non-standard situation, will serve for a long time, on reliable mechanisms.”

Small kitchens often lack storage because their owners are afraid to place bulky furniture in the kitchen. This misconception is sometimes supported by specialists in kitchen salons. While the choice of upper cabinets up to the ceiling could solve a lot of problems.

Anna Fadeeva: “Cabinets up to the ceiling are a great solution, in addition, you get rid of the dust collector – an open top shelf. And the wall is as full as possible and looks solid, follow the composition and cutting of the doors.

The lack of working areas is another scourge of small kitchens. Pay attention to unused space - at the window, under and above the door. A good solution would be to join the loggia to the kitchen space.

Anna Fadeeva: “Take vertical. Again, a wall with a window and a doorway often “disappears”, storage systems will perfectly fit around. In a compact kitchen, if desired, you can fit almost everything you need. For example, a refrigerator and a separate freezer can be placed under the countertop, thus freeing up the plane of the tables.”

So, let's sum up. To think over a successful design for a small kitchen, remember the following:

1. We use the generally accepted methods of increasing space wisely (we make sure that mirrors, lighting and glossy facades will not cause discomfort and additional trouble for care).
2. Choosing a color solution depending on the illumination of the kitchen.

   ---

   Learn more

   • 
     Wall colors for kids bedroom
   • 
     Home and garden magazine subscriptions
   • 
     Red wine cleanup
   • 
     How to fix leaking sink faucet
   • 
     Consumer reports on toasters
   • 
     Light green kitchen ideas
   • 
     Faux leather cleaner
   • 
     Dark green sofa living room ideas
   • 
     Wall decorations for mens bedroom
   • 
     What are the best trees for shade
   • 
     Joe biden real estate