Small kitchen design
60 Best Small Kitchen Design Ideas
Boxwood Avenue, Sara Tramp
Your kitchen should be your happy place. Face it, you're going to spend a lot of time cooking, cleaning and organizing in the kitchen, so it might as well be somewhere you enjoy spending time. Just because your kitchen is small, doesn't mean it has to feel small. We've rounded up 60 small kitchen ideas to help you maximize your space and make even super compact kitchens feel way bigger than they actually are.
As you explore this photo gallery of fresh kitchen ideas, you’ll find a ton of decorating hacks and remodeling tips that are brilliant if you're on a budget. A peek at what’s to come: using mirrors to create the illusion of more space, adding light and bright colors to enliven an interior and breakfast nook ideas that maximize the narrowest of spaces. We've also rounded up storage solutions and organization tips that'll keep your kitchen clean and orderly — like how to build a makeshift spice rack. And renters, don't worry: we've sprinkled in creative design ideas that don't have to be permanent.
Whether your personal design style is modern, minimalist or you have an affinity for a French country kitchen, we guarantee you'll find an interior to love. We challenge you to embrace clever ways to create more counter space, take advantage of underutilized drawers and make use of blank walls. You'll even learn how to incorporate the top kitchen design trends for 2022 (like backsplash tile ideas and sought-after paint options) into the corners, nooks and crevices of your home. Promise, the final result will be more than worth it.
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.
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, light 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 as larger than it actually is — plus, they look great while doing it.
See more at Style by Emily Henderson »
Monica Wang
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Maximize Kitchen Corners
Learn to work with the space you've got 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.
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.
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.
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 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 in the kitchen, consider building another space 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.
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.
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.
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.
Anastassios Mentis
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Go Green
Mike Garten
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Keep Most-Used Items on Shelves
While, yes, pretty dishware doubles as decor, it's way more practical to load floating shelves with items that you use on the daily, like cookware and mixing bowls.
Justin PagetGetty Images
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Go for Simple Window Treatments
Or, none at all. Avoid curtains or bulky blinds that will make a space feel smaller, instead opt for sheer curtains or sleek shades.
Jessica Bordner
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Craft a Wine Nook
Turn dead space into a smart storage solution to corral cutting boards, wine bottles and anything else you like to have on hand while you cook.
Peter Molick for Maureen Stevens
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Get Bold With Backsplash
Use tile to trick the eye: lay it vertically to create the illusion of height or horizontally to make the room seem wider.
Color also comes into play, which is why designer Maureen Stevens opted for a geometric tile that played up the kitchen's white cabinets and walls.
Amy Bartlam
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Add Task Lighting
Illuminate a specific area — your prep station, perhaps? — with stylish sconces. Find ones in the same finish as the rest of the kitchen's hardware for consistency's sake.
Laurey Glenn for Ashley Gilbreath Design
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Style a Coffee Nook
Since coffee machines (and all the gadgets that come along with it) take up precious counter space, turn an underutilized area into the ultimate caffeination station. Hide machines and cords under a skirt, then keep all of your coffee and tea essentials on built-in shelves.
RELATED: Coffee Bar Ideas to Make Your Kitchen Fit for a Barista
Stoffer Photography for Jean Stoffer Design
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Stick With One Color
Amy Bartlam
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Go With a Striking Contrast
Mixing too many colors can overwhelm a small space.
Keep the walls, cabinets and ceilings the same color, then incorporate contrasting accents, such as a colored hood range, pendant lights and decorative knobs.
Jeffrey Phillip of Sugar & Cloth
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Group Items by Color
Create a uniform look on any open-shelving system by organizing dishes or appliances by color. Not only does it look appealing, but it'll make it even easier to find what you're looking for the next time you're in the kitchen.
tiny kitchen design and decor |
(Image credit: Future)
Our small kitchen ideas are perfect for those not blessed with a large and sociable space.
Not all homes come with vast open plan spaces. If yours is on the small side, there is plenty to feel positive about and there are still plenty of kitchen ideas to play with.
For a start, when designing a small kitchen, you'll soon realize that it’s easy to keep everything to hand without having to march from sink to hob to fridge. Plus, there is a wealth of clever small kitchen storage ideas available to get the very best out of every inch.
Look for a designer with a proven record of creating dynamic and ergonomic designs for small spaces.
And, finally, you can afford to go for unusual and unabashedly luxurious materials. With a limited amount of door and drawer fronts to cover, investing in a little luxe easily elevates your kitchen area from small to cool.
Small kitchen ideas
These small kitchen ideas are useful, whether you are looking for remodeling ideas for small kitchens or looking to furnish a mud or laundry room, or if you just want clever, space-saving ideas for a larger kitchen. Space-efficient, they are stylish, too.
1. Invest in smart storage
(Image credit: Lonika Chande / Simon Brown)
'It might seem counter-intuitive in a kitchen where space is at a premium, but unless the ceilings are very high I like to do away with wall cabinets altogether in favor of kitchen shelving,' says interior designer Lonika Chande .
'It looks much better and opens up the space.
I am always on the lookout for vintage shop fittings and characterful reclaimed planks that can be repurposed as shelves. I then decant what I can into Kilner jars for display, alongside stacks of crockery, linen and the odd jug. I love nothing more than to be left to it with my Kilner jars and a Dymo labelling machine – unbelievably satisfying work and so visually pleasing too’.
2. Use decorative tricks to brighten a small kitchen
(Image credit: Madeline Harper Photography)
Creating a light and bright space as part of your small kitchen ideas can feel like an impossible task. When faced with this small kitchen, Shawna Percival, founder and designer at Styleberry Creative Interiors started by relocating the window to a central position and making it larger so that it would let more light into the small kitchen. Finding ways to increase the natural light in the kitchen is a great way to combat the challenges and make a small kitchen look bigger.
‘For the backsplash, we went with these vertically laid tiles in variegated off-white, the tone variation creates the illusion of depth, while the high-gloss finish helps to further reflect light throughout the space,’ says Shawna.
She paired these other white kitchen ideas including off-white cabinets which help the white countertops and eggshell white vent hood to really shine.
‘We heated things up with brass sconces, brass cabinet pulls, and warm wood accents through the custom range and accessories,’ continues Shawna. ‘We also incorporated this white-washed brick and rust-colored rug for some warm, cottage character.’ Adding details from cottage kitchen ideas are a great way to add warmth and personality to your small kitchen ideas.
Other decorative tips include knowing which items home organizers say make rooms feel small (so you can avoid them in your kitchen). Top tips include keeping small kitchen appliances away from your worktops and getting rid of food packaging that is taking up unnecessary room in your pantry or cupboard.
3. Maximize awkward corners for storage
(Image credit: Caeserstone)
Older homes, which often come hand in hand with small kitchens, small kitchen layouts are characterized by their unusual nooks and crannies.
Making the most of these unusual spaces is key to maximizing the storage space in your small kitchen ideas. Inset cookers and cabinetry into unused fireplaces and pair with your favorite stove backsplash ideas, or install open-shelving into alcoves to make the most of all the available space. Pair with neutral cabinetry and white stone countertops, like these from Caeserstone to keep the space feeling bright.
4. Work a dining nook into a small kitchen
(Image credit: Jane Beiles)
Galley kitchen ideas are one of the most common small kitchen ideas. These long, narrow spaces bring with them myriad design challenges from cabinetry through to lighting.
Often small kitchen ideas prioritize storage at the cost of social spaces, however this kitchen designed by Georgia Zikas manages to combine the two to great effect. ‘The custom design of the corner banquette seating incorporates drawers below the bench and a tall pantry cupboard to the right, while also providing a space for friends and family to sit and relax,’ explains Georgia.
Small kitchen lighting ideas are vital to the functionality and decorative aspects of your design, too – here, downlights in the cook zone are complemented by a pendant light over the dining table, which creates a warm pool of light over diners.
5. Make an open-plan space work with a small kitchen
(Image credit: Polly Eltes)
How to plan the layout of a small kitchen? There may be little choice, though a galley kitchen is often your only choice – even in an open plan area. One of the benefits of open plan kitchen ideas is that you have a large footprint at your disposal. However, when incorporating a kitchen into an open-plan space you need to be careful that it doesn’t dominate the room.
This clever kitchen design divides the living space from the kitchen with a wall of cabinetry and a small subway tile backsplash – one of our favorite kitchen wall tile ideas – helping to keep the practical space separate from the social. However, the partial wall ensures that the cook isn’t isolated.
Designed around a large window with the half wall also letting in light from the patio doors and skylight, this small kitchen still feels open and airy too.
6. Work cleverly with color
(Image credit: Little Greene)
‘As well as the walls, consider your kitchen cabinets and storage: highlighting these essential elements within a kitchen is a fantastic way to deliver design impact,' says Ruth Mottershead, creative director, Little Greene .
Are there architectural features or areas of interest to draw attention to? Color is a fantastic way to highlight a favourite feature. If you don’t want to use a bold color all over, highlight the back of your shelving in a contrasting color or opt for a dynamic two-tone kitchen color scheme by adding one color to the lower cabinets and contrasting colors for walls and upper cabinets.
7. Paint in one color palette
(Image credit: Studio Peake)
‘In the cozy kitchen in one of our Chelsea pied-à-terre projects, we applied fresh colors throughout (with white cabinets and Stone I by Paint & Paper Library on the walls) to help the eye slide seamlessly from one surface to another and make the space seem bigger than it really is,' says Sarah Peake, founder and creative director, Studio Peake .
8. Choose space-enhancing flooring to trick the eye
(Image credit: Kasia Fiszer)
Flooring is always a challenge when it comes to kitchens – there are plenty of kitchen flooring ideas but it can be difficult to choose the right material and style for your small kitchen ideas. It must be hard wearing, easy to clean and provide the perfect backdrop to the rest of your kitchen.
‘A smaller kitchen requires careful thought and consideration to give the illusion of a larger space,’ says Isabel Fernandez, director at Quorn Stone . ‘Contrary to belief we often find a larger tile can work well at achieving this. A smaller tile results in lots of grout joints which can enclose the space and detract the eye from the tile. We often suggest a large tile as it works well in both smaller and larger areas'.
There are also plenty of different stone flooring types and kitchen tile ideas that are perfect for small kitchen ideas. 'Wood effect porcelain is becoming increasingly popular in tighter spaces due to their long and narrow format – if you choose a complementary grout color it makes the grout less noticeable which again helps to open the space out,' adds Isabel.
(Image credit: John Lewis of Hungerford)
With the rise in open-plan kitchen-living spaces, kitchens have become smaller in favor of larger entertaining spaces. If your kitchen is part of an open-plan layout, then tidiness is key. Unlike with traditional kitchen ideas, where the door can be closed after cooking, in open plan kitchen ideas everything is permanently on display, meaning that storage is essential.
What small kitchens lack in footprint, they often make up for in height, so focus your design vertically. Full-height cabinetry not only provides more storage but creates a sophisticated design that clearly zones your kitchen within the open-plan layout.
By factoring height into your kitchen layout ideas, you can incorporate a wide range of kitchen cupboard storage ideas into your small kitchen design. In this kitchen from John Lewis of Hungerford , dark green full-height cabinets create an elegant, traditional backdrop while the yellow feature wall not only adds warmth but draws the eye to the small windows and the decorations, exaggerating the length of the space and focuses the eye on the source of natural light.
Note: clever breakfast bar ideas for small kitchens can provide the only dining space within an apartment, so go for glamorous fittings and furnishings.
10. Work a kitchen island into a small kitchen
(Image credit: Think Chic Interiors )
Kitchen island ideas are a dream for many homeowners and it can seem impossible to unite this dream with small kitchen ideas. However, with the right design and placement, it's a realistic addition which 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.
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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 .
(Image credit: Middleton )
A kitchen usually has lots of colorful elements in it 'I would go with quite neutral colors for the walls and some bright color on the cupboards,' says Edward Bulmer, interior designer and founder, Edward Bulmer Natural Paint .
'Try mixing it up with contrasting colors: as long as they work tonally you cannot go wrong. You can play it safe with colors that sit alongside one another on the color wheel, or for striking impact, go for those on opposite sides i.e. greens to complement reds, blues to complement oranges and purples to complement yellows.’
14. Find space for a small pantry
(Image credit: British Standard)
Storage is a key consideration for any kitchen, however, it is even more important when it comes to small kitchen ideas. ‘Tidiness is really the difference between a small kitchen looking sleek and sophisticated, or cramped,’ says Maryana Grinshpun, principal at Mammoth Projects .
If you are lucky enough to have a large cupboard in your kitchen or utility, consider converting it into a small pantry, it will give you that valuable storage space. Plus, there are plenty of different pantry ideas that can suit every shape space. ‘With pantries continuing to top kitchen wish lists, people are adding open shelving and slimline doors or a curtain to even the smallest of spaces to create mini ancillary pantries,’ says Anderian Bergman, design manager at British Standard .
15. Choose rich textiles to add pattern
(Image credit: Future / Brent Darby / Styling Pippa Blenkinsop)
When space is tight, you can distract the eye with color, but the best place to have rich shades is on the floor. That gives you the opportunity to introduce the cabinetry and walls in pale plains, which are more likely to make a small kitchen feel bigger.
16. Love bold tiles? Keep them to the floor
(Image credit: Original Style)
If you love pattern, again, limiting it to the floor can make a small kitchen feel bigger. Any pattern that creates lines that draw the eye across the kitchen will help make the space feel larger still and if you limit the color palette of the tiles you choose, you will exaggerate the effect further.
Kitchen flooring like this becomes the feature of the room and is best used when the units and walls are plain in color, that way there’s no creative clashing. You can also use tiles to zone the kitchen area if the space is open plan.
17. Light up with pretty shades
(Image credit: Studio Duggan)
Small kitchens can be in dark, dramatic shades but they will benefit from an element of the cabinetry being in a contrasting pale color. Pale pretty shades like blush pink combine well with gray countertops and backsplash and they will expand your small kitchen visually.
Be clever too with your textures. The ribbed white sink mimics the ribbed glass of the cabinets and you can see the white tableware peeking through. These are all key design features that help a dark and small scheme look fabulous.
18. Create a visual trick when you replace wall cabinets
(Image credit: Nicola Harding)
Clever lighting ideas for small kitchens are needed in compact spaces. LED strips under cabinets are one great idea and so are downlights. But we like the idea of making a design statement with your lights and if you can source wall lights that have adjustable heads then all the better, as they can double as task lamps too.
This works particularly well when you don’t have wall units to hang LED strips from.
Here, a line of lamps is echoed by a line of pictures above. This linear trick is another way to make a small kitchen appear longer than it is.
19. Venture vertically
(Image credit: Future / Darren Chung)
When planning small kitchen layouts think vertically by continuing your cabinets up to the ceiling but plan carefully to ensure the room feels as open as possible. Store less frequently used items in high cupboards. Add a breakfast bar if you can. The amount of storage and workspace it provides makes great use of the footprint and will ensure your kitchen is more sociable.
20. Focus on form and function
(Image credit: Future / Davide Lovatti)
Creating a fuss-free, family friendly design is easy with handleless cabinetry. Available in a variety of finishes, from hi-gloss white to textured woods and ceramics, it’s a style that works beautifully in both modern and period properties.
A handleless scheme, particularly one in a cool white, can appear clinical, but adding a few natural materials will give it a softer edge. Think about including a colorful patterned tile backsplash or wooden worktops. Stone or wood floors are also a practical solution for a kitchen that will help to create a layered, textured effect.
21. Mind the gap
(Image credit: Future / Jonathan Gooch)
Named after the kitchen space on a ship, galleys are designed to be super-efficient by maximizing every available space. Known for their two parallel counters, there is a range of practical options to help make it a workable layout, from smart storage solutions to lighting tricks and fun flooring ideas.
Storage is key in galley kitchens, as space saving is the goal. Opt for a multi-use drawer as it offers a compact space for crockery and cutlery.
For kitchen ceiling ideas for a smaller galley kitchen, if it is possible, install skylights to boost the natural light in the space.
22. Add color to enliven a small kitchen
(Image credit: Future / Jonathan Gooch)
Eye-catching details aren't just for large kitchens. Neutrals are not for everyone and the size of your kitchen shouldn’t dictate that you play it safe. Decorative accessories will add colorful flourishes and can be easily updated to keep abreast of new kitchen trends. Lamp shades, blinds, curtains, artwork and countertop storage are all good, inexpensive options.
One way to add color to your small kitchen space is through stylish window treatments, for more inspiration, guide on, what do you put on a small kitchen window?
23. Shed natural light into a small kitchen
(Image credit: Future / Davide Lovatti)
Consider rooflights or glazing your ceiling if you have few or small windows. Similarly, keep tall cabinets and bulky fridge freezers away from windows where they may limit the amount of daylight in the room.
24. Factor in food for thought with seating
(Image credit: The Main Company Photograph: Chris Snook)
Even very small spaces can often accommodate an open-plan dining area.
In a compact kitchen, consider using banquette seating, fitted into a corner or even on one side of a kitchen island, to create a cozy dining spot.
25. Look on the bright side
(Image credit: Future / Davide Lovatti)
When it comes to the color scheme, you don’t have to play it safe, even when looking for small kitchen ideas. Conventional wisdom suggests light and bright with reflective surfaces to keep the space airy, but the opposite can work just as well.
Dark and moody charcoal cabinetry teamed with a dramatic lighting scheme will make the kitchen feel smart, while good use of mirrors, whatever the color scheme, will give a greater illusion of space.
And don’t scrimp on the kitchen lighting ideas. Incorporate adequate task lighting under cabinets for food preparation and include in-drawer and in-cabinet lighting where possible, so you can always see the contents. Finally, add some mood lighting if you can on a separate circuit.
26. Keep it neat and tidy
(Image credit: Future / Jan Baldwin)
Storage is one of the most important elements in a small kitchen and open kitchen shelving ideas can make a small space feel larger, unlike a solid run of cabinetry.
If you are using open shelves in your small kitchen, ensure you save the best-looking pieces to be both stored and displayed for this space.
27. Put it on display
(Image credit: Future / Carolyn Barber)
Talking of display... don’t forget to include a small display area if you can squeeze it in. Open shelves are ideal for showing off decorative items and cookbooks that make your kitchen feel personal.
'Keep materials simple. I would recommend a maximum of three finishes in a small kitchen, which allows you to zone areas, create features and let other sections blend into the background,' says Lindsey Rendall, co-founder, Rendall & Wright .
28. Add a color pop
(Image credit: Future / Polly Wreford)
When it comes to kitchen color ideas, don't be afraid to go bold in a small kitchen space.
A bright splash of bold red could really make the difference between a cold, cramped space and one that is interesting and exciting.
29. Keep things off surfaces
(Image credit: Harvey Jones)
If your kitchen is small, any clutter that's left on the side is going to use up much-needed workspace and make it look even smaller. Also, when it comes to cooking, you'll be limited with countertop surface area.
Make more room for yourself by putting any appliances that aren't used every day in a cupboard, rather than on the side. The same goes for any food. It also might be worth considering if decorative kitchen accessories are actually adding anything to the space, or if they are just getting in the way.
Fitting and organizing kitchen drawers so that they can house everything from spices to crockery is a far more efficient use of space than installing cabinets in small kitchens.
30. Opt for slimmer cabinets
(Image credit: Lisa Staton Interior Design/Haris Kenjar)
Slimline base cabinets could be a great option if you're in need of a little more floor space because they are built with a reduced depth.
However, this does mean that you won't be able to store any big pans in them, so it's important to come up with an alternative way to store these essentials, or size down.
31. Use geometric patterns
(Image credit: Studio Vernacular/Ruby & Peach Photo)
Geometric patterns are becoming an increasingly popular choice and they are incredibly helpful for making a space look bigger, as they draw the eye vertically or lengthways to give the impression of a longer, taller kitchen.
32. Get reflective
(Image credit: La Cornue)
We all know mirrors make a space look bigger, so why not throw a few into your kitchen? Alternatively, opting for reflective surfaces, such as gloss, will help bounce light around the room, making it appear bigger and brighter.
(Image credit: deVOL)
There's no denying a double butler sink makes dishwashing incredibly easy, but if you have a small kitchen, this style is going to take up precious space.
Not to mention it will make the room look even smaller.
A single sink can look just as stylish and will give you more counter space to play with.
34. Integrate your appliances
(Image credit: Tom Howley )
Integrated appliances, like fridges, washing machines and dishwashers, will make a room appear bigger and more streamline.
Yes, you might have to open a cupboard to get to them, but the overall look will be sleeker instead of a mix-match of different elements in a small space.
35. Add a portable island
(Image credit: Ikea)
A portable kitchen island can be moved about the room according to needs, which means they are more flexible than their static counterparts.
These moveable options don’t feature plumbing, electricity or gas. They are usually tables, trollies or units on wheels, but they come in a whole host of styles from industrial designs to classic farmhouse kitchen islands.
36. Keep lines clean
(Image credit: Future/Paul Raeside)
Did you know that something as simple as removing bulky handles from cabinets can make your small kitchen appear larger? By using modern kitchen ideas such as push/click catches instead, the room will be more streamline and will look smoother.
37. Use light-reflecting accessories
(Image credit: Future / Alicia Taylor)
Metallic, glass and reflective accessories – whether that's pots and or pendant lights – will help bounce light around the room. These light-reflecting objects will boost brightness and add a sense of depth.
38. Stretch cabinets up high
(Image credit: deVOL)
Storage is clearly king when it comes to the small kitchen and this is where bespoke, made-to-measure designs as part of the layout really come into their own. The flexibility of having non-standard door sizes, clever corner cabinets and tailor-made carcasses at your fingertips is a huge plus point for small kitchen layouts.
One way to max out storage possibilities in a small kitchen is to stretch cabinets all the way to the ceiling – this will also eliminate that awkward space on top of cabinets that collect dust. Use high-up storage for items you use infrequently such as party platters and seasonal gadgets like ice-cream makers and slow cookers.
‘Here, glazed and closed storage covers a whole wall from floor to ceiling,’ explains Helen Parker, creative director of deVOL . ‘We usually like to stick to our standard-sized cupboards to keep costs down for our customers, but there is always the option of a special bespoke piece, made and fitted for an awkward space or alcove to maximize storage, and that’s just what was needed here.’
39. Add the slimmest breakfast bar
(Image credit: deVOL)
Who said you can’t dine in a small kitchen? Not us. This small galley kitchen is just over 6.8ft (2.1m) wide, 13.5ft (4.1m) long and the distance between the two runs just over 2.6ft (785mm) – but it still manages to fit in masses of storage, appliances and even a bespoke seating/eating area. The slim ledge is carved out of the same pale quartz worktop as the rest of the kitchen with two stools to perch on and take in the views of the city of Bath, England, outside.
‘This project is proof that you don’t need a huge space to create a dream kitchen,’ says Helen Parker.
‘Space is a wonderful luxury but it’s not about having loads of it, big rooms, big gardens and big houses, it is about creating room to live comfortably and simply in the space you have available.’
40. Go for open and closed storage
(Image credit: mosaik Design & Remodeling)
You might be tempted to squeeze in as many cabinets as possible when planning small kitchen ideas – but beware, this can sometimes simply make a small space feel smaller. While storage is a key priority, consider a mix and match of closed door cabinets at the bottom and open shelving on the walls as part of the layout. Two rows of cabinetry, top and bottom, has the potential to make your kitchen feel claustrophobic and confined, especially if there aren’t any windows to break up the run.
‘When working with a galley kitchen, I like to incorporate some open shelving,’ says Erin Davis, lead designer for Mosaik Design & Remodeling in Portland, Oregon. ‘Too much cabinetry can make a small kitchen feel smaller.
Some open shelving combined with closed doors offers a chance to display your favorite items, inject personality to the space and adds an open feel to the kitchen.’
How do I plan a small kitchen?
Getting the right designer on board is key and, crucially, the kitchen needs to be designed to suit the space, rather than picking a range or style and trying to adapt your small kitchen ideas to fit.
Dual purpose pieces and good internal storage will make the most of cupboard space. Weigh up the pros and cons of tall units over worktop space – small double galleys often benefit from one side of tall cabinets teamed with one run of base units opposite. Although, you should make every attempt to keep work surface clear of clutter.
Look for compact appliances, choosing premium models that give the optimum internal space while still fitting a standard or compact footprint. Also pieces such as multi-functional compact ovens, offer a range of cooking methods from steam to conventional and microwave in one neat little package.
It's also worth taking shape into account – U-shaped kitchens for example, can work really well in a small space.
What is the best layout for a small kitchen?
In terms of small kitchen layouts, a galley format is a popular choice.
Galley kitchens, with their linear simplicity, have a timeless appeal no matter how big or small your space. And with open plan living becoming increasingly popular, a galley kitchen is a compact solution that is both practical and surprisingly stylish.
What is the best color for a small kitchen?
The best color for a small kitchen ultimately depends on what you want from the space, but don't let the size hold you back from going bold.
While the long established preference for going ‘light and bright’ when decorating small spaces does apply, it’s important not to let your kitchen slip into neutral obscurity.
'Don’t be afraid to use color – even really bright colors in high gloss finishes, such as lime green, blue, lilac or pink.
It’s a great way to give your kitchen a boost if you haven’t got a great deal of space to play with,' advises Adrian Stoneham of Stoneham Kitchens .
If you do feel more comfortable with a pale palette, try to shake things up in other ways. Incorporating interesting shapes, via serpentine curved units, or adding one strong feature piece like a chandelier or designer bar stools, can create a really dynamic room that’s easy to update.
How can I decorate my small kitchen?
Decorating a small kitchen can be approached in the same way as in a larger kitchen. In other words, pick finishes and decorative elements that please you and complement the style of the rest of your home. But it's really important to understand that every choice you make for a small kitchen will be magnified by the compact conditions.
So, if you were to choose a paint color, bold tiles or a maximalist wallpaper for the walls, each will feel that much more vivid and dominating than in a larger kitchen.
For this reason, it is a good idea to limit your choice of decorative layers to just two and to keep them to specific areas of the room.
Or, go for subtlety and be aware that toning down your choices just a little can still be really effective in a small kitchen.
Can I put an island in a small kitchen?
When it comes to fitting a kitchen, a question that's often asked is 'can I put an island in a small kitchen?' The good news is that there's usually always a way to make it work.
An island unit is perhaps the most popular feature in a kitchen, and is one that can work well in a small kitchen.
In a very large room, it will act as a bridge between perimeter furniture, improving the work triangle and allowing more than one cook to work comfortably side-by-side, but can also make a wonderful addition to a small kitchen, adding extra seating and negating the need for a separate dining room.
With the addition of arresting light pendants or an eye-catching work surface, it can become the room’s design centrepiece.
In an open-plan kitchen, use an island or peninsula to divide cooking and dining.
‘The addition of breakfast bar seating can create intimacy in the smallest kitchen, and only requires a 40cm worktop overhang to dine in comfort,’ says interior designer Abigail Hall .
Connect both water and electricity, and your island will become an impressive workhorse, incorporating cooking, washing and cooling appliances. ‘This will free up surfaces in the rest of the kitchen but we also see the island as an opportunity to have extra ovens or specialist appliances such as a teppanyaki, wok burner or BBQ grill,’ adds Neil Lerner .
What shape is most efficient in small space kitchens?
A U-shaped layout could be the most efficient choice for a small space kitchen as it allows a good number of cabinets. With two corners in the layout, use pull-out internal fittings that permit access to all the contents of these cabinets to maximize storage.
A galley kitchen can also be an efficient choice.
Bear in mind that the width of a galley kitchen should be 7 to 12ft (2.1 to 3.7m) with a minimum of 3ft (0.9m) between opposite countertops. Be mindful that 3ft (0.9m) of walking space between countertops is a bare minimum and is the best solution for kitchens where one person is using it. For a more flexible layout, 4 to 5ft (1.2 to 1.5m) of space between countertops is ideal.
Jennifer is the Digital Editor at Homes & Gardens. Having worked in the interiors industry for a number of years, spanning many publications, she now hones her digital prowess on the 'best interiors website' in the world. Multi-skilled, Jennifer has worked in PR and marketing, and the occasional dabble in the social media, commercial and e-commerce space. Over the years, she has written about every area of the home, from compiling design houses from some of the best interior designers in the world to sourcing celebrity homes, reviewing appliances and even the odd news story or two.
Design of a small kitchen - 75 photos of interiors, ideas for renovation
Small-sized kitchens are a common problem in Soviet apartments.
However, it applies to all types of budget housing, even in European countries and the United States. But in itself, the presence of an individual zone for cooking and eating is already a lot, and in order to be pleasant in such a kitchen, you just need to properly decorate the interior. Read the article on how to do this!
Common mistakes in the design of a small kitchen
There is an opinion that on an area of 5-6 sq.m. absolutely nothing fits and the convenience of such a kitchen leaves much to be desired. This leads to a number of errors.
The first reason for crowding is oversized furniture and appliances that take up a lot of space and do not fit well into the architecture of the room.
A sense of clutter is also created by the sheer amount of color and texture when crockery or food boxes are stored on open shelves. The color dissonance between the walls, the ceiling and the headset also breaks the harmony of the space.
The water and gas pipes left in plain sight do not add comfort, and due to the lack of an exhaust hood and normal ventilation, not only the health of the hostess suffers, but also the cleanliness of the surfaces in the cooking area.
Choosing the right layout
The comfort of the kitchen area to a large extent depends on the location of the headset and the so-called "working triangle" - refrigerator, stove and sink. The triangular geometry was invented specifically for small spaces, to simplify the cooking process, to make it more ergonomic.
The main points of activity should fall on the corners of the figure, between which the hostess will be able to move freely. The layout itself is determined by the length of the walls, the location of doors, windows and communications. In cramped indoor spaces, it is best to use designs that resemble the shape of the letters P and L. For open studios, a linear, circular or island version may well be suitable. And if you got a corridor-type kitchen (for example, a checkpoint), then it is best to apply a parallel layout.
Small square kitchen layout
For kitchens where all the walls are the same length, the U-shaped design is ideal.
In this case, one of the corners of the working triangle will be right. It is desirable to leave a place by the window for washing, and place the stove and refrigerator symmetrically, closer to the center of the blank walls. This will provide quick access to the three main items.
L-shaped layout can be chosen if you want to leave a free corner for the dining area. In this case, the sink is installed in the corner, and the rest - on opposite sides of it.
Layout of a narrow (rectangular) small kitchen
If the kitchen is narrow, then linear or parallel placement is the best choice for it. In the first version, the headset, along with work surfaces, is placed along one long wall, in the second, it is better to place a sink and stove on one side, and a refrigerator and food cabinets on the opposite side.
Layout of a small kitchen of irregular shape
The open plan kitchen, characteristic of studio apartments, allows for any convenient layout system.
For example, if the cooking area is separated from the living room by a countertop with a built-in hob and sink, you get an island type; if this partition has the shape of a semicircle - oval.
Interesting design options can be made if the architecture of the room contains niches, bay windows or ledges. To do this, you need furniture made according to an individual sketch.
Interior style
Adhering to the geometry and color scheme of one of the styles below, the interior of the kitchen can be made as beautiful and functional as possible.
Small Provence style kitchen
Provence style is characterized by pastel shades, elegant floral ornaments and vintage enameled furniture. In general, this design leaves an impression of tenderness and lightness.
Small modern style kitchen
Innovative materials, multi-tasking technology, mirrored surfaces and clear lines are sure to add the missing volume to a small kitchen, and make the cooking process not only fast, but also enjoyable.
This is a universal solution for people who live in the rhythm of the 21st century.
Small loft style kitchen
The features of the loft are unfinished brick walls, open communications, rough furniture and a lot of space. A kitchen decorated in this style will appeal to freedom-loving creative individuals.
Small country style kitchen
Rustic style reminiscent of summer holidays, vacations and cottages. It has a lot of natural materials - solid wood furniture, stone-like tiles, plank floors are used. The oven can be stylized in the spirit of a real wood-burning stove, and the hood should be closed with an imitation of a chimney.
Small high-tech kitchen
The high-tech design of the kitchen includes mostly smooth surfaces, a lot of chrome elements, mirror inserts and tinted glass. Of the colors, glossy white and gray predominate, blotches of black or blue are also possible.
Scandinavian style small kitchen
Fashion for northern European design appeared with Ikea stores.
Scandinavian style is great for small spaces - all thanks to light winter colors combined with natural textures of granite and bleached wood.
Classic small kitchen
Symmetrical lines, soft glow and warm hues with golden accents make this classic-style kitchen an example of true harmony. Such an environment would be quite appropriate in a small space, visually enlarge and decorate it.
Small minimalist kitchen
The motto of minimalism - the more inconspicuous, the better. Smooth surfaces of kitchen furniture and appliances seem to merge with the rest of the finish. No bright details, decor or open shelves - only perfect cleanliness and correct lines.
Color solutions for a small kitchen
Each shade carries certain information that is subconsciously perceived by a person. So, for example, white and pastel colors are reminiscent of clear sunny days; saturated - attract attention; dark - as if hiding the outlines of objects in the darkness.
Having carefully studied the spectrum, the experts deduced certain rules that should be followed when decorating small rooms. The main ones are to use mostly a light palette and use no more than 3 colors at the same time.
White kitchen
An all-white kitchen will always look clean and tidy. To make it feel like home, you can add wooden textures, and gray additions will help make the cleaning process easier.
Gray kitchen
The neutral hue of stones and steel is the perfect solution for a discreet design in a small kitchen. It is easy to pick up any modern technology to it. If desired, the gray color is successfully diluted with more saturated inclusions from the rainbow palette.
Beige kitchen
Many people love the shade of cappuccino for its practicality. It is quite soft, as well as a warm color, on which spots are almost invisible. White and brown elements look good in a beige environment.
Yellow kitchen
A small kitchen in yellow tones has every chance of becoming the most favorite place in the house.
Moderately bright, this color creates a good mood and warms even on cloudy days. Yellow goes well with white, light gray, green, and most pastel colors.
Green kitchen
Cheerful shades of spring foliage will create a cozy and peaceful atmosphere in the kitchen. The green color is ideally complemented by brown and gray, and especially by the pattern of natural wood.
Finishing a small kitchen
The role of finishing in the interior of the kitchen is difficult to overestimate. The quality of the materials determines how durable the repair will be, and their appearance directly affects the aesthetics and comfort of the room.
Floor
Given the intensity of use, the floor covering in the cooking area should be as durable as possible, resistant to moisture, easy to clean and, preferably, not slippery. These criteria are best met by linoleum, porcelain stoneware, ceramic tiles, as well as a self-leveling floor based on polymer resins.
In order not to “break” an already cramped space into even smaller areas, the coating should be made monophonic, and the elements should be chosen large and glossy.
Walls
For wall decoration in a small kitchen, you can use moisture-resistant painting (latex and acrylic water-dispersion paints with the addition of anti-mold agents), fiberglass, washable vinyl wallpaper, plastic panels.
The area above the sink, hob and worktop should preferably be protected with a ceramic coating (tile, smooth artificial stone) or tempered tinted glass.
Ceiling
The best option for decorating the ceiling in a small kitchen is a light stretch film or simple painting. Fiberglass will help to level the surface, as well as avoid microcracks on the plaster.
The use of drywall (even the most moisture-resistant) and suspended plastic panels is undesirable - this will reduce the height of the room.
Textile
Curtains in the kitchen should be used sparingly, because they not only get dirty quickly, absorb odors, but are also considered a fire hazard.
If the window faces south, a short translucent curtain (tulle) or a narrow strip of dense material hung like a visor will help protect against bright rays.
Venetian blinds and bamboo rolls are quite versatile options for small kitchens. Another convenient solution is folding Roman blinds.
Instead of difficult-to-care natural fabrics, it is better to give preference to synthetic textiles (polyester, nylon, lavsan) with water-repellent and fire-resistant impregnation.
Small kitchen furniture
When choosing furniture for your small kitchen, you should pay attention not only to the aesthetics of the design, but also to the build quality, ergonomics, and the type of materials used. All this will subsequently affect not only the functionality, but also the health of the inhabitants of the house. The dimensions must be adjusted according to the standards of the room, and the work surfaces must be raised to a level suitable for the height of the hostess.
Kitchen set
As the most bulky and visible element, the set has a huge impact on the interior as a whole. In a small kitchen, it must be neat, with closed shelves, without noticeable reliefs and cracks. Monochromatic facades without handles will give the impression that this is not furniture at all, but just a wall, and thus facilitate the design of the room. Behind the doors it is desirable to hide the hood, pipes or overall equipment.
A simple design of a kitchen set can be modified with an interesting backsplash, for example, by placing a narrow photo wallpaper with a panoramic view behind the glass or by making a colorful mosaic of pixel tiles. Being in a recess, this area will not be conspicuous, but will give the workspace its own zest.
Dining area
Great luck if the kitchen has enough space for a full-fledged dining area. Alas, small-sized rooms can not always boast of such an addition. In this case, you will have to look for an alternative!
A good solution to save space in a small kitchen can be a narrow bar counter with high stools, folding and folding designs.
The window sill can also play the role of a dining table if it is raised with metal brackets to the desired height.
It is also possible to equip a corner for family meals on an insulated loggia or in a bay window recess.
Storage systems
Built-in drawers, pull-out shelves, hooks and magnets on the doors, spinning corner carousels - all this will allow you to conveniently place all your kitchen utensils.
Place pots, bowls and cutlery close to the sink; frying pans, baking sheets and forms should be hidden near the oven, and it is advisable to store bulk products in dry upper cabinets.
For the most beautiful items, one or two sections can be distinguished, closed with transparent partitions - things left on open shelves will quickly fall into dust, condensate and drops of fat will settle on them.
Refrigerator Placement Ideas
So that the refrigerator does not take up much space in your small kitchen, you should choose a tall, narrow model with a flat door.
Its snow-white surface will ideally fit into the same furniture wall, and chrome-plated or polished steel color will perfectly complement the high-tech interior, echoing other large appliances.
The compact built-in camera is also ideal for small spaces. It can be placed under the countertop, or raised to a convenient height and hidden behind the facade of the kitchen set.
Proper lighting in the kitchen
Even in a small cooking area, it is preferable to use many light sources. Mortise point diodes are best suited for this purpose - they consume little electricity, last a long time and withstand high humidity. Due to the low power and fire safety, LED-luminaires can be mounted in a headset (the main thing is to securely isolate the wiring).
Hanging chandeliers in a small kitchen can get in the way, but if you still decide to use them, for example, over the dining area, it is better to stay on the simplest ceiling lamps, which will then be easy to wipe off the dust.
In the center of the room, it is desirable to hang a ceiling lamp with a smooth surface.
Integration with other premises
Expanding a small kitchen with adjoining spaces is a great way to use every centimeter of free space efficiently. By completely or partially removing the internal partition, a cramped room can easily be turned into a beautiful and modern studio.
Combination of a small kitchen with a living room
If the wall between the kitchen and the living room is not load-bearing, it should be removed. Thus, you will get a very convenient cooking area. At the same time, it is important to install a powerful hood so that the smell and steam from the stove do not spread throughout the house.
A high bar counter will help visually zone the room, which can be used as a table and worktop at the same time.
Combination of a small kitchen with a balcony or loggia
A small kitchen with access to the loggia is a real success, because it is at least 2 sq.
m. reserve space. It remains only to throw out old things from there, disassemble the low partition, remove the glass, and insulate the side facing the street - and you will get additional free space even for a dining area, even for cabinets or a refrigerator.
Small kitchen design - photo
Our photo selection will help you to be inspired by new ideas for transforming your small kitchen. Here are the most interesting design options, innovative solutions and useful finds. Happy viewing!
Video: Small kitchen - interior ideas
7 ideas, 4 mistakes and 93 photos (real)
We will analyze all 7 rules and 4 mistakes on real photo examples of small kitchen design.
- 7 small kitchen design ideas0200
- 3.
No more than two colors - 4. No accessories
- 5. Maximum unloading of the countertop
- 6. Modern interior of a small kitchen
- 7. Custom furniture and built-in appliances
7 Small Kitchen Design Ideas
Here and below we will assume that a small kitchen also means not an unlimited budget . All advice will be to maximize the result/price ratio.
1. Small kitchen up to the ceiling
Upper cabinets in small kitchens should always be built up to the ceiling. Even if you don't get it, you will always find some rarely used items that you can stuff into the upper lockers and forget. Without a gap, the design of a small kitchen looks monolithic and the furniture is not perceived as boxes hung on the wall.
There will be no question of masking the ventilation pipe from the hood. Rubbish, dust and grease will not accumulate.
It is better to buy a stepladder for a penny and climb up a couple of times a season than to waste both appearance and storage space.
You can always either lower the ceiling in the cabinet area or increase the height of the upper cabinets, or both. Photo examples:
By the way, handles on the upper cabinets are not needed: both with hinged opening and with lifting mechanisms, the facades are simply made 1 centimeter longer and open at the bottom. Upper cabinets should look solid.
If you do, the handles must be the same and either all horizontal or all vertical.
The photo below is an example of a good design for a small kitchen, where just following the tips from this first point would make this design already chic.
If your area does not exceed 7 sq. m.
, see my material about the design of kitchens in Khrushchev. Also read a separate article specifically about the features of choosing a kitchen set for a small kitchen - furniture for a small kitchen is critical. Here we are considering options for 7-12 square meters. m.
Naturally, there are exceptions to any rules, and I have an article with beautiful pictures of kitchens where the canons don't care. But here we are talking about small kitchens where there is no time for experiments.
2. Built-in hood
Everyone is used to the fact that built-in appliances are expensive. And this is true, but not for hoods. A built-in hood costs even less than a regular one: from $35 for a regular built-in hood and from $50 for a telescopic one. It makes sense to take it among the cheapest ones. they are no different from the expensive ones. The advantage of such a hood is the space around the pipe in the cabinet, which does not disappear as in the case of ordinary ones. We have all the tea/coffee/condiments stored there.
Compare. Plain:
Lots of space is wasted. And built-in:
3. No more than two colors
Maximum one primary and one accent. Moreover, the facades should be of a calm color. There is a mandatory set of items for cooking, and in a small area the concentration of these items is very high. And they also have their own colors.
The best color combination in terms of price/performance ratio is still white with wood. In general, you need to be careful with bright colors in the design of a small kitchen - the risk of overdoing it is too high.
A Scandinavian style kitchen is beautiful with dirty accent colors that are easy to match with natural finishes.
Bright colors are acceptable, but you are at risk.
4. No accessories
If the only function that an object in the interior of a small kitchen performs is a beautiful appearance, then this is an extra item.
Stylish design is achieved by competent planning, selection of materials, furniture and equipment.
A good indicator of an extra item is its constant movement to different places without being used. Remember the photos of real small kitchens that you liked. Was it the accessories? In any case, the small dimensions of the kitchen require a complete rejection of accessories.
Looking at the photos on the Internet, always imagine them in actual use: with all appliances, dishes, towels, etc.
Then it will immediately become clear why it is impossible to overload with accessories and flowers.
The same goes for fridge magnets, travel plate collections, etc. There is nothing wrong with this and for a family it can mean more than appearance, but from a design point of view, this is not the place in a small kitchen.
5. Unload the table top as much as possible
The smaller the area, the more difficult it is to clean.
Because there is not enough space on the countertop and when cleaning you have to rearrange items from place to place. You've probably heard the wrong triangle rule about the fridge, sink, and stove. Actually the center of a small kitchen is a free horizontal plane. Because of all 3 points, we first put food and dishes on the table, and only then we perform manipulations.
Therefore, the first task is to remove everything from the countertop. What is possible is stuffed into closed places, and for the rest we need roof rails . A must-have item in a small kitchen, but one that limits the design of the backsplash because it will always be perceptibly obscured. We hang special shelves on the rails and store things on them. Here is a perfect example of organization (but not design):
We make an apron uniform without drawings and patterns (bright is possible).
6. Modern interior of a small kitchen
This is not a hard and fast rule, but classic styles are more expensive to implement and love large areas.
In addition, there are many household appliances, and almost all of them have a modern design. To maintain the style of the interior and the technique, you will have to greatly narrow the range of choice and raise the budget. Plus, there is too much non-functional decor in the classics, which just eats up square meters.
The only classic design styles that I would consider for a small kitchen are Provence and light neoclassic.
7. Custom-made furniture and built-in appliances
Unfortunately, this item can only be solved with money, but it is very important. The area of your apartment also costs money, and in a small kitchen, every sq.m. on account. Therefore, it is logical to overpay for the manufacture of furniture exactly to your size and for the equipment built into it.
A particular pain is the built-in microwave, which unreasonably costs 3+ times as much as a stand-alone one and starts at $200. There are no objective reasons for such a price, and it looks like a cartel of all manufacturers.
But it really looks much better than freestanding and saves the most scarce horizontal areas in a small kitchen, so with tears in your eyes it is still worth forking out. Or take the risk of making the furniture exactly the size of the usual one. But keep in mind that for built-in ventilation through the front facade, and for ordinary ones through the back panel, it can overheat.
Many people are laying a niche for a built-in microwave and put an ordinary microwave in it, but with the ability to switch to a built-in at any time.
4 Mistakes in the interior of a small kitchen
Not following any rule from the 1st part is a mistake, but we will not repeat it. The following rules are relevant specifically for small kitchens, in others they may not be errors.
1. Transparent boxes
Same planning error. Before repair, imagine beautiful drawers with glass inserts and lighting, from where beautiful neatly arranged dishes will be viewed. Only after the repair, a small kitchen will bring you a little reality.
In medium and larger kitchens, glass inserts are still acceptable, but in small ones there will be too much overload with details.
2. No upper cabinets
Without upper cabinets, practicality suffers in addition to appearance. Kitchens without hanging cabinets look cool only on a very large area, otherwise it looks like there is not enough money for the upper ones yet. Well, it does not pull on the design idea.
Open shelves are also not an option here, believe me, Designwiki.ru will not advise garbage.
Functionally, upper cabinets are a must: an extractor hood and a drain from it, a dish dryer (it is inconvenient to take it from below). And in general, taking from above is more convenient than constantly bending.
If the kitchen has a corner and a short side, hang the cabinets on the long side.
3. Floor joint
The floor must be the same.
Either laminate everywhere, or tiles everywhere, no joints and thresholds. I analyzed in detail in the material which floor to choose for the kitchen.
4. Lots of design in a small space
Don't be smart. The most harmful thought that can come during a repair is that it turns out too simple and needs to be complicated. No need. There are extra sq.m. - there is a design, but in kitchens up to 10 meters it is necessary to do as simply as possible .
Upper cabinets should preferably be uniform and monolithic. Compare and keep it simple:
How to furnish a small kitchen
furniture is the main thing in the design of a small kitchen.
If you have a kitchen with a balcony, you can add it. This can be done simply by removing the window block. In place of the former window sill, we install a countertop and get a table or bar counter. The balcony will need to be insulated.
If you need more working area, but the size of the room does not allow and there is no balcony, then you can make a tabletop window sill.
At the bottom of the boxes will not be added, because. there will be a battery, but more space on the table.
If you decide to move the sink to the window, consider the nuance with the trash can. Usually it stands under the sink, but if the sink is near the window, then the battery will also be there, which means that the garbage will quickly deteriorate and smell. Find another place for the bucket.
Be smart with your layout. There is no need to complicate the design in a small kitchen, but the most insane layout options should be considered. Sometimes very interesting options for arranging furniture can turn out.
The idea: custom kitchen sellers offer free plan creation - use it, no need to order.
A two-burner cooktop is enough for almost everyone.
Small corner kitchens
If the shape of the room is closer to a square, then our option is corner kitchens.
Otherwise, there will be too much free unused floor, and in a small area we cannot allow this.
In general, corner furniture is the standard. There are very good reasons to refuse it. The layout of the corner kitchen should always start with the refrigerator. it is the only one that occupies all 3 levels (lower cabinets, apron area, upper cabinets).
The junction of the countertop and the non-built-in refrigerator cannot be fixed and moisture will get into the end of the countertop. It must be laminated as open.
With the corner version, we will have 1 corner for the L-shaped or 2 for the U-shaped. Using the corner lower cabinets is extremely inconvenient. You can put up with and store rarely used things there. And you can use special fittings for corner cabinets, but it costs simply unrealistic money.
Washing can be done on the corner. From the point of view of design, it does not look very stylish, but the practicality is maximum - an uncomfortable corner will be occupied by communications and filters, access to which is rarely needed.
