Unique small kitchen ideas
52 Small Kitchen Ideas That Prove That Less Is More
Introduction
By
Kristin Hohenadel
Kristin Hohenadel
Kristin Hohenadel is an interior design expert who has covered architecture, interiors, and decor trends for publications including the New York Times, Interior Design, Lonny, and the American and international editions of Elle Decor. She resides in Paris, France, and has traveled to over 30 countries, giving her a global perspective on home design.
Learn more about The Spruce's Editorial Process
Updated on 12/02/22
The Spruce / Christopher Lee Foto
When it comes to kitchens, bigger isn't always better. The most experienced chefs know that you don't need a ton of space or non-essential equipment to produce a stunning meal. A small kitchen where everything required to prep and cook is within arms' reach can make everyday cooking more efficient and stress free. Easier to clean and maintain, a smaller kitchen encourages you to focus on the essential and eliminate clutter, and can feel especially cozy and inviting with thoughtful design and decor.
Check out these stylish, compact, space-saving kitchens in a range of styles that have everything you need to cook for yourself or a crowd.
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Slide Away Bar Seating
Design by Space Factory / Photo by Hervé Goluza
This 237-square-foot Parisian mini loft from French interior design firm Space Factory has a open kitchen that is built on a slight platform that delineates it from the rest of the apartment, decorated with bright white cabinetry, subway tiles, and OSB accents that add warmth and texture.
A slim custom built-in bar helps to visually divide the space, provide extra counter space for meal prep, and has a slide-out component that doubles its width for dining, with white bar stools that disappear into the background when not in use. -
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Add in Floating Shelves
A Beautiful Mess
One way to keep a small kitchen space feeling light and airy is to use open shelving instead of upper cabinetry, which can make a small space feel cramped and claustrophobic. The key to making this work is keeping those open shelves neatly styled. Blogger Elsie Larson from A Beautiful Mess kept this small U-shaped kitchen feeling light, bright, and airy with an all-white palette that includes floating open corner shelving to store dishware, spices, and pantry staples. A cool-toned silver stove and stainless steel oven vent create a focal point, and the symmetry of the space and neatly arranged contents of the shelves make the small space feel lived in and organized at the same time.
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Go for a Charming Aesthetic
Design by deVOL Kitchens
This St. John's Square, London kitchen designed by Sebastian Cox for deVOL Kitchens has charming bones and a period fireplace that's outfitted with custom cabinetry neatly built in against a single wall, cool blue paint, and warm countertops and metal accents. Quirky art, a smattering of plants, and a sparkling crystal chandelier prove that a small kitchen can handle as much style as any other.
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Keep Your Kitchen More Streamlined
Fantastic Frank
This petite L-shaped kitchen from Fantastic Frank is built seamlessly into a corner of a larger dining space equipped with a large table and chairs, allowing it to fade into the background at mealtime. The all-white kitchen has glossy lacquered cabinetry in a sleek flat-front design that blends into the all-white backsplash. A large picture window floods the tiny kitchen with natural light, making it feel open and airy.
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Make Your View Center-Stage
Design by Georgia Zikas Design / Photo by Jane Beiles
In this galley-style city apartment kitchen from Georgia Zikas Design, a corner banquette is squeezed in at the far end beneath a window with a skyline view. A round tulip-style table without any sharp edges allows for easy maneuvering in the compact space. Glass-front cabinetry helps keep the narrow galley kitchen from feeling too closed in, and a gleaming tile backsplash on opposite walls helps to bounce light around.
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Try a Peninsula
Design by Rashida Banks for Emily Henderson Design / Photo by Keyanna Bowen
If you dream of having a kitchen island but don't have the square footage for one, try installing a peninsula instead. This compact kitchen designed by Rashida Banks for Emily Henderson Design has a sleek quartz waterfall edge peninsula that has seating for three, anchored by a pair of black and gold vintage-style pendant lights that define the space and add some retro charm.
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Add Groovy Graphics
Design by Emilie Fournet Interiors / Photo by Rachael Smith
This small London kitchen from Emilie Fournet Interiors has a groovy geometric patterned tile backsplash that extends to the hood vent, defining the open kitchen area and adding movement and interest to the space that makes it feel dynamic and expansive rather than small and cramped. The U-shaped design makes everything you need to prep, cook, and serve meals within arm's reach.
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Go Rustic
Lobster and Swan
This small rustic kitchen from Lobster and Swan is anchored by a large center oven and outfitted with stained wood countertops, olive green cabinetry, and open shelving stacked with dishware, glassware, and cookware in natural materials. In lieu of a kitchen island, a round bistro table and chairs provides a place for dining and an extra surface for meal prep.
The 9 Best Floating Shelves of 2022
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Work With Angles
Fantastic Frank
This small kitchen from Fantastic Frank is tailored to seamlessly fit into the room's angled walls to maximize storage and functionality. The airy minimalist Scandi kitchen has pale gray cabinetry, light blond hardwood flooring, mixed metals, a whisper of pink on the walls, and hanging bulb lights hung on a rosy pink knotted cord that adds a note of studied nonchalance.
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Keep It Simple
Design by Desiree Burns Interiors
This bachelorette pad kitchen from Desiree Burns Interiors is open to the living room and is dressed for company with simple white cabinetry, a classic Smeg refrigerator, gold-toned hardware, mixed metals, and a pair of accent pendant lights over the built-in island countertop that doubles as a small space dining area.
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Fold Down Dining Table
Design by Space Factory / Photo by Hervé Goluza
In this small Parisian kitchen designed by Space Factory, a custom-built fold-down burnt-wood table creates a place for dining that can be neatly stowed away when not in use to open up the space.
The black wood cabinetry and textural concrete wall finish give the uncluttered space a minimalist, masculine feel. -
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Peek Inside the Looking Glass
Design by deVOL Kitchens
This small London kitchen designed by Sebastian Cox for deVOL Kitchens has mixed wood finish cabinetry that provides texture and a minimalist style and layout that keeps the space feeling modern. In addition to a large window to the outside, the designers added an atelier-style interior window over the sink that looks out into the main entryway, a clever way to maximize natural light and create additional sightlines in a small space that helps to preserve a sense of openness.
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Leave It One-Sided
Fantastic Frank
This long and narrow eat-in kitchen from Fantastic Frank has a wall of cabinetry, countertops, and appliances on one side, leaving space for a small bistro table and chairs on the opposite side.
A minimalist clear glass pendant light hangs over the dining space that disappears during the day and provides dedicated light after dark. -
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Go for Pure Scandi
Fantastic Frank
This small but airy and light-flooded Stockholm kitchen from Fantastic Frank is authentic Scandi style at its best, with its simple white and silver finishes, a streamlined wall of cabinetry and appliances, painted white bentwood chairs, and a small table covered in a lacy tablecloth to add a note of vintage charm.
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Make It Serene
Design by deVOL Kitchens
This small kitchen from deVOL Kitchens has a spare traditional feel with plenty of built-in storage to keep it from feeling cluttered, and a limited palette of soft white, gray, and pale wood.
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Try a Contemporary Cottage Feel
Design by Ursula Carmona of Home Made By Carmona
Blogger Ursula Carmona of Home Made By Carmona installed a small L-shaped kitchen in the corner of this open cottage kitchen and dining room remodel.
The light palette of the kitchen matches the rest of the room and fades into the background when not in use. -
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Work Around the Back Door
Design by Jessica Nelson Design / Photo by Carina Skrobecki Photography
This small kitchen from Jessica Nelson Design is arranged in a double L-shaped configuration that maximizes functionality while accommodating the presence of the back door. Packed with storage, the kitchen's palette of soft whites, grays, pale wood, and mixed metals keeps it feeling streamlined and serene.
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Add Black
Design by DasMod and Handsome Salt / Photo by Jenny Siegwart
In this small open kitchen designed by Eric Gilmer and Sven Simon of DasMod in conjunction with interior designer Sara Simon of Handsome Salt, matte black wall paint provides contrast to white cabinetry and creates continuity with the seating area on the other side of the room. A small dining table floats in the middle of the space between tall windows, and a large colorful painting creates a focal point that distracts the eye, making the kitchen fade into the background of the open space.
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Keep It Neutral
Design by Violets & Vinegar Design / Photo by Jenny Siegwart
This compact U-shaped kitchen from Violets & Vinegar Design keeps it simple with a sober palette of white, gray, and black. A subtle pattern on the backsplash tile adds interest, while countertops are kept clear to keep the small space looking sharp and clutter-free.
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Add in Shades of Green
Design by deVOL Kitchens
This charming country style kitchen from deVOL Kitchens has an L-shaped design that hugs the small space with its slanted roof and cottage charm. Finishes in multiple shades of green on the walls, backsplash tile, lower cabinetry, and open shelving is mixed with warm antique brass plumbing fixtures, rich stained wood glass-front upper cabinetry, and terracotta floor tiles with an aged patina.
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Work With a Galley Style
Design by Cathie Hong Interiors / Photo by Amber Thrane
This light and bright galley California kitchen from Cathie Hong Interiors has tons of natural light that makes the sober white, black, and gray palette feel fresh, while mixed metal accents add shine.
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Add Reclaimed Wood
Lobster and Swan
Rustic reclaimed wood and textured walls make this DIY English kitchen from Lobster and Swan feel homey and inviting.
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Be Bold With Dark Colors
Design by deVOL Kitchens
Dark green paint on lower cabinetry and walls makes this Notting Hill London kitchen from deVOL Kitchens feel cozy and warm, while a dramatic cool marble backsplash and countertops and antique brass accents add polish and style. Open shelving with a thin brass ledge provides easy access storage for tea supplies and glassware and pots of flowers.
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Maximize a U-Shaped Kitchen
Design by Cathie Hong Interiors / Photo by Christy Q. Photography
This U-shaped kitchen from Cathie Hong Interiors maximizes every last nook and cranny with wrap-around cabinetry from floor to ceiling, a kitchen island with built-in storage, and a white and gray palette with mixed metal accents that makes it feel light and airy.
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Try Sage Green
Design by Bees Knees Interior Design Studio / Photo by Tamara Flanagan Photography
In this small kitchen from Bees Knees Interior Design Studio, soothing sage green paint on the lower cabinets is carried onto the mudroom cabinetry visible through the arched doorway, creating a sense of continuity.
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Utilize a Multi-Functional Island
Design by Space Factory / Photo by Hervé Goluza
This top floor Paris apartment designed by Space Factory has tall ceilings and is flooded with light from skylights on the roof, making the small kitchen seem larger. Deep teal lower cabinetry has a grounding effect, while a tall marble backsplash and pale open shelving preserves a light and airy feel. A small kitchen island houses the stovetop and includes a breakfast bar for two.
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Work With Shared Entry
Design by Space Factory / Photo by Hervé Goluza
This small kitchen designed by Parisian interior design firm Space Factory shares space with the entry.
The designers used an atelier-style metal and glass window partition to visually divide the space, and used a striking tile mosaic floor that unites it. The entry side of the cabinetry that divides the space is painted in chalkboard paint to delight the kids, while leather pulls add a sophisticated touch to black kitchen cabinetry contrasted with pale wood countertops. -
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Throw in a Retro Fridge
Design by Velinda Hellen for Emily Henderson Design / Photo by Sara Ligorria-Tramp
In this small kitchen designed by Velinda Hellen for Emily Henderson Design, a retro style refrigerator is lined up beside the built-in L-shaped cabinetry, sink, and oven, helping to define the space.
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Keep it Classic
Design by deVOL Kitchens
This lovely L-shaped London kitchen from deVOL Kitchens has dark lower cabinetry topped with marble slab countertops, leaving space on the walls for framed art and a vintage wall sconce that creates an open, uncluttered feel.
Brass, gold, and copper accents warm up the space. -
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Embody a Modern Rustic Look
Design by Erin Williamson Design
This remodeled 1950s Texas lake house kitchen from Erin Williamson Design has a modern rustic vibe, with warm tiles, rustic beams, clean, white cabinetry accented with wood pulls, glass pendant lights, a retro style refrigerator, and wood and woven bar stools around the peninsula.
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Mix White and Blue
Design by Cathie Hong Interiors / Photo by Margaret Austin Photo
Pale blue cabinetry with black accents and white countertops and tiles make this small kitchen from Cathie Hong Interiors feel fresh and functional.
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Keep It Eclectic
Design by K Shan Design
This small kitchen from K Shan Design has a big personality and an eclectic, upbeat vibe thanks to colorful wallpaper, black-and-white check tile flooring, geometric backsplash tile, and blingy gold bar stools around the peninsula.
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Embody a Retro Look
Rockport Building Partners / Photo by Sarah Szwajkos
This country kitchen from Rockport Building Partners has plenty of built-in cabinetry painted in a retro pastel mint green, vintage pendant lighting, and a modern kitchen island with a pair of French bistro stools.
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Go for California Modern
Design by Cathie Hong Interiors / Photo by Christy Q. Photography
This California modern Eichler house in San Jose was updated by Cathie Hong Interiors, who turned the dark, outdated room into a space fit for 21st-century living. The designer added an island to optimize circulation, replaced outdated cabinets, and added new appliances, tile work, light fixtures, and open shelving.
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Try an Accent Tile
Design by Erin Williamson Design
This small kitchen from Erin Williamson Design is located in a multi unit 1950s A-frame lake house on the shores of Lake Austin, TX.
The designer replaced the cramped, dated kitchen, removing upper cabinets, adding a striking black-and-white tile backsplash to modernize it while taking advantage of the vaulted ceilings that make the compact space feel much larger than it is. -
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Use Patterned Curtains
Design by Studio Peake
This fresh L-shaped alcove kitchen from Studio Peake can be banished from sight thanks to a green-and-white patterned curtain hung from the ceiling on the outside of the cased opening.
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Bring Focus to Your Skyline View
Design by Alvin Wayne
Interior designer Alvin Wayne made the most of this compact NYC kitchen by using cabinetry and countertops in a mix of matte black and bright white lacquer finishes. A mix of silver and copper accents bring the neutral color scheme to life, and the spare design allows the city skyline view to shine.
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Try a Victorian Restored Look
Design by Tyler Karu / Photo by Erin Little
This historic Victorian in Cambridge, MA kitchen was remodeled by interior designer Tyler Karu, who worked with the owners to restore the original character and detail to the home that had been erased during previous renovations.
The modest sized kitchen has quality materials with a timeless but updated feel. Wall hooks on the empty wall house a decorative and practical display of wooden cutting boards. -
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Make the Most of a Tiny Loft
Fantastic Frank
This tiny Stockholm studio from Fantastic Frank has a compact kitchenette to match, seamlessly tucked in beneath the loft bed stairs that double for extra storage.
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Keep Things Back to Back
Design by Space Factory / Photo by Hervé Goluza
In this small open plan kitchen in Paris designed by Space Factory, a custom-designed dining table is placed in front of the wall that houses the kitchen in lieu of an island. It is accompanied by a custom-designed leather bench that is placed back to back with the adjacent living area sofa, neatly dividing the space and creating separate zones within a 581-square-foot apartment.
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Match Your Hardware and Decor
Fantastic Frank
This compact Berlin kitchen from Fantastic Frank has minimalist vibes, with its matte black lower cabinetry, sink, and plumbing fixtures, and a black industrial wall sconce with a long arm that looms over the countertop.
A blonde butcher block countertop adds warmth and light, and a framed black-and-white print on the pristine white walls adds some minimalist decor. -
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Keep Things Open
Design by Bees Knees Interior Design Studio / Photo by Kyle J Caldwell Photography
This compact L-shaped kitchen from Bees Knees Interior Design Studio hugs the corner of a larger pass-through space, leaving plenty of room around the kitchen island to preserve flow. A pale palette of shades of white and built-in cabinetry that hugs the ceiling maximizes every inch of space and allows the kitchen to fade into the background when not in use while remaining at the center of the home.
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Keep Your Brick Floors
True Home
A small dated kitchen from True Home was renovated with durable sealed brick floors, black cabinetry, salvaged marble countertops, and plenty of recessed can lighting to compensate for the lack of natural light.
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Utilize Built-In Storage
Design by Mid City Interiors
This small bungalow kitchen from Mid City Interiors has an L-shaped peninsula with built-in storage that provides seating for four while helping to define the kitchen area. Built-in cabinetry on the L-shaped corner portion of the kitchen runs all the way up to the ceiling to maximize storage.
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Maximize Vertical Space
Design by Mindy Gayer Design Co. / Photo by Vanessa Lentine
This compact kitchen from Mindy Gayer Design Co. is located at the bottom of the stairs, laid out in an L-shape with a small island that seats two. Tall cabinetry maximizes vertical space, and a neutral palette with warm touches of wood and natural woven accents adds warmth to the open space.
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Add Seats to Small Counter Space
Design by deVOL Kitchens
In this small galley kitchen in a Georgian style apartment in Bath, England from deVOL Kitchens, a two-seater cafe-style breakfast bar is built in right next to the window to provide a cozy place for a cup of coffee or a meal.
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Convey a Bigger Appearance With a Mirror
Design by Jess Bunge for Emily Henderson Design / Photo by Sara Tramp
This small kitchen designed by Jess Bunge for Emily Henderson Design has open and closed cabinetry, a large countertop, and sink along one wall, with a free-standing oven positioned on its own against the back wall as a matter of necessity. To distract the eye and make the space feel bigger, a convex witch's eye mirror with an ornate gold frame is hung on the wall.
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Add Some Contrast
Design by Emilie Fournet Interiors / Photo by Kasia Fiszer
This London kitchen from Emilie Fournet Interiors combines emerald green backsplash tiles with pale white and gray lower cabinetry, countertops, and flooring. A double layer of dark wood wraparound wood shelving ties in the reclaimed wood ceiling and provides contrast.
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Add All the Storage
Design by deVOL Kitchens
This small self-contained kitchen from deVOL Kitchens has a U-shaped layout that maximizes space along the three main walls.
One wall is devoted to storage, including closed lower cabinetry, and a built-in wall of glass front cabinetry. The opposite wall has a window over the sink that floods the room with natural light, while the back wall is devoted to an oversize hood vent that creates a focal point along with the vintage-style pale yellow oven. -
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Stick to Light and Bright
Design by Mary Patton Design / Photo by Molly Culver
This small condo kitchen from Mary Patton Design creates the illusion of a larger space by sticking to a light and bright all-white palette dressed up with luminous gold-toned accents, and adding minimal items to the countertop.
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Blend It All Together
Design by Alvin Wayne
This small NYC kitchen from interior designer Alvin Wayne has pale neutral finishes that allow it to blend in with the open adjacent living room, while a large neon sign at the end of the hallway creates a focal point to distract the eye.
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Make the Most of Your Small Space
Design by Space Factory / Photo by Hervé Goluza
The small minimalist kitchen in this top-floor duplex designed by French interior design firm Space Factory is built along a wall next to a staircase inspired by a Kapla game. A single shelf above the sink is painted in Yves Klein blue that matches color accents found throughout the open space, and a single panel of plywood on the cabinet front next to the oven echos the raw material of the staircase.
DIY-Friendly and Lower Cost Small Kitchen Remodels
70 Best Small Kitchen Design Ideas
Stacy Zarin Goldberg, Ema Peter
Turn your kitchen into your happy place, no matter its size — it's the heart of the home, after all. From cooking healthy family dinners, sitting around the island with friends to organizing — then reorganizing — your limited cabinet space, you inevitability spend a lot of time in the kitchen.
Just because your kitchen is small, doesn't mean it has to feel small. To help you make the most of your limited space, we've rounded up the best small kitchen ideas — whether your design style is modern, traditional or country.
Even if you're redesigning on a budget, you deserve a kitchen that feels functional and stylish. Make use of every crevice, clear clutter from counters and decorate blank walls. As you explore this photo gallery of small kitchen decorating ideas, you'll find fast and affordable solutions like hanging mirrors to create the illusion of more space, layering bold hues to brighten an interior and adding shelves to take advantage of vertical space.
We've included kitchen storage tips that'll keep your counters clean and orderly — like where to store liquor or the best way to organize a kitchen pantry. If you're considering a full renovation, we've sprinkled in DIY projects like finding a fresh paint color for the kitchen, setting up a separate bar or swapping in chic backsplash tiles.
Whether you live in an apartment, condo or your house is lacking kitchen space, you're sure to find an interior to love.
Stacy Zarin Goldberg
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Add Sleek Open Shelving
Suspend open shelving from the ceiling or hang a rack high on the wall to add height and create the illusion of more space. At the same time, the added storage will minimize clutter on the counter.
Barbara Egan/Reportage
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Go Bold on Top, Neutral on Bottom
Here's a playful way to make your smaller space feel more vertical: go for bright upper cabinets. What's more? This modern kitchen has double-stacked cabinets for a ton of storage space. Keep it neutral on the bottom to create contrast.
Cherished Bliss
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Create a Portable Stove
Instead of installing a full stove, blogger Ashley Rene went for something much more versatile: a double burner on a rolling cart and a vent hood with a charcoal filter. When the homeowner isn't cooking, they can easily put the burner away and have infinite more space.
Get the tutorial at Cherished Bliss »
Ema Peter
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Put the Microwave Down Below
Save on counter space by designating a home for your microwave, whether that be built in below your kitchen counter or hidden away in a pantry.
Lauren Pressey
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Add Corner Shelves
If you don't have the space for wall-to-wall open shelving, go for small corner shelves. Designer Kate Lester created instant storage by hanging three reclaimed barn wood shelves.
Design: Reena Sotropa In House Design Group; Photo: Phil Crozier
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Use a Bar Cabinet
Don't waste cabinet space on booze. Here, interior designer Reena Sotropa uses a geometric bar cabinet to create separation in a small space.
Lindsay Salazar
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Go Big With Art
Just because you're working with a small space, doesn't mean you can't display your art collection. Use a mix of small and large prints to create a gallery wall that adds dimension to your kitchen.
Monica Wang
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Maximize Kitchen Corners
Learn to work with the space you have by capitalizing on every corner and nook. If your actual kitchen is small, there may be a small crevice or awkward nook that can be reworked into additional kitchen space.
Inspired by Charm
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Build a Butler's Pantry
Here, blogger Michael Wurm Jr. turns what was once a full bathroom into a butler’s pantry and a small powder room — but this concept also works if you have a closet or small alcove you're not maximizing.
See the full remodel at Inspired by Charm »
Mike Garten
10 of 70
Choose Floor-to-Ceiling Whites
We all know that light, bright spaces feel more spacious than dark, dreary areas. Stick with white cabinets, walls and trim for your small kitchen, then layer in wood accents and black cabinet hardware to keep things trendy.
Taylor Architectural Photography
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Embrace an Open Layout
The work of John McClain Design, this small kitchen is also a dining room and living room — and, yet it feels super spacious and sophisticated.
Two small bistro tables near the sofa provide additional dining space.
Aliyev Alexei Sergeevich
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Disguise Your Dishwasher
For those of us with limited cabinet space, a dishwasher can take up half the kitchen. If you want to achieve a clean and streamlined aesthetic, install your dishwasher to fit seamlessly beneath your kitchen counters.
The Handmade Home
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Add a Runner
Elongate a narrow space with a long patterned runner, while also adding style and softness to your interior.
See more at The Handmade Home »
Stacy Zarin Goldberg
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Create Consistency
For a striking statement, bring the same paint color, wallpaper or wood paneling from the wall to the ceiling. Stick with lighter hues and smaller prints, so you don't overwhelm the space.
Design by Velinda Hellen; Photo by Sara Tramp
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Go for Light Appliances
While stainless steel appliances are most popular, this sleek Smeg fridge proves that white appliances can look just as chic.
Lighten up your space by pairing it with crisp white tiles, blonde wood floors and baby blue cabinets.
See more at Style by Emily Henderson »
Annie Schlechter for Country Living
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Install a Pegboard Wall
Paint a pegboard in a cheery hue to create a functional focal point. Once attached, load it up with some of your kitchen must-haves — measuring cups, wooden spoons, cast iron skillets and more.
Design by Studio Merlin; Photo by Richard Chivers
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Add a Built-In Seat
In an effort to merge the kitchen with the living room, Studio Merlin Founder Josh Piddock added a built-in kitchen seat into these rich blue cabinets from Reform.
Design by Jess Bunge; Photo by Sara Tramp
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Create the Illusion of More Space
Mirrors reflect light and trick the eye into perceiving a space is larger than it actually is — plus, they look great while doing it.
See more at Style by Emily Henderson »
Courtesy of HGTV
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Hang Rattan Pendants
The natural tones in rattan pendants add warmth, but the open and airy construction welcome breeziness into any small space.
Christopher Dibble
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Go for Multi-Colored Cabinets
Let the primaries — red, yellow and blue — breathe life into your space. Paint cabinet doors at random, but leave a few au naturel for maximum contrast.
Boxwood Avenue
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Keep Spices Organized
Alec Hemer
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Add Pops of Color
The brighter the space, the bigger it'll feel. You can go with shades of white and gray, then layer in two tones of a bold hue to add intrigue.
Max Burkhalter
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Incorporate Bottle Storage
Build custom cubbies to keep wine and liquor bottles off the kitchen counters. Store wine glasses, bottle stoppers and other accessories in a nearby cabinet, so you can pour with ease.
Amy Bartlam
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Create More Counterspace
If you're working with limited counter space, consider building another area that serves as an extension of the kitchen — even if it's a few steps away. You can use a sideboard and open shelving, like Kate Lester Interiors does here.
Mike Van Tassell
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Warm up the Whites
White on white can open up even the smallest of spaces, but go with a reflective backsplash, like pearl iridescent subway tile, to bounce light around.
RELATED: Stunning Kitchens With White Cabinets
Jessica Alexander for Pure Salt Interiors
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Get Smart With Floating Shelves
Don't let windows get in your way. Stretch floating shelves across the entire wall, making sure to leave enough room between them to allow the natural light to come through.
Joe Schmelzer
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DIY a Kitchen Island
While you're cooking, a small kitchen island is as helpful as a big island (which is not an option for most tiny kitchens). You can even find a rolling one if you're not looking for a permanent solution.
Miki Duisterhof
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Try Backless Stools
When living in a small home or apartment, you need all the counter space you can get — even if that means creating your own with a dining room table that serves two purposes.
Plus, backless stools can live under the table to conserve space when they're not being used.
Alison Gootee
29 of 70
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.
27 Unique Miniature Kitchen Design Ideas
The shelves above the sink look great
Today we'll talk about the interior of the kitchenette. If you are the owner of one, then you know about all its shortcomings.
Sometimes you don't want to go to such a kitchen to cook, because there is always not enough space. But if you correctly distribute it, you get a very comfortable room. So what needs to be done to make the interior of a narrow kitchen become a pleasant and not annoying place?
Open shelves look great and are practical to use
Use the space on the walls wisely
Storage of dishes is difficult in a small kitchen.
Often it just doesn't fit. It is worth making several different shelves on the walls, and just hanging some appliances, and the problem will be solved.
Clever storage solution
Kitchen utensils can be placed on hooks, a special storage tray is also a good solution
Wall cabinets are very comfortable and practical
Soft corner will make the kitchen cozy
The kitchen can be divided into several zones using color
Hide the chairs
Stools and chairs can find their place under the table. This is a great idea for a small kitchen.
Custom made furniture is best for small spaces
You can write your favorite recipes on the black board
Kitchen appearance may deviate from generally accepted standards
Kitchen furniture can be as high as the ceiling;
This rack is very handy for storing dishes upstairs
In a small and narrow kitchen, cabinets should only be placed on one side
To keep the kitchen looking clean and tidy, all items should be hidden in cabinets
If allowed place, you can install a separate worktop
To avoid the feeling of chaos, everything should be folded in its place
Kitchen with high ceilings can hang pictures or photos
Cupboards can store dishes
White kitchen combined with bar stools
Boxes can be stored on the refrigerator
White furniture will visually increase the area of the kitchen
Yellow color will add a touch solar heat
Cozy kitchen
Light wood furniture
Use space carefully
Corner can also be used
Upper shelves suitable for little used items
Useful corner
Use the corner to store small items.
Jars of spices will look great there. A good solution would be the manufacture of furniture to order.
Places: Shelf design • Storage systems • Corner kitchen
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70 best photos, styles, colors, interior ideas in 2022
Small kitchen design: 70 best photos We tell you how to correctly transform small meters into a spacious version
| Read / 15 minutes |
Anastasia Alekseeva
Author, architect
Denis Serov
9000
2.
Modern design
Go to
3. Classic design 900
Modern interiors of small kitchens show a variety of styles and combinations. Their harmony borders on beauty and functionality, quality of materials and textures. But there are areas that are more popular for small areas. Let's talk about them.
Minimalism
Unobtrusive design, simple shapes, light tone, functionality and minimal decor are the main features of minimalism. Clarity and simplicity in everything implies a built-in kitchen storage system, with drawers and cabinets according to the “touch to open” opening system without handles and a pronounced relief.
Do not clutter up the space of a small kitchen with unnecessary accessories - think over your minimum set of devices. Built-in appliances, transforming furniture and folding structures will ideally fit into small footage.
Minimalism. Photo: social media All pieces of furniture and decor should be practical and contain everything you need. You can use bright accents in moderation to only emphasize the character of the room and set some originality. Household appliances can also serve as accents.
Modern. Photo: social networks
Hi-tech
High-tech design implies smooth surfaces of kitchen facades, chrome elements, an abundance of light sources, all kinds of mirror inserts and tinted glass. Black, gray and white are the best design companions. Neutral tones of blue or green with a cool undertone will perfectly emphasize the character of the style.
The style is expressed in the use of an immodest amount of built-in "smart" technology.
Hi-tech. Photo: social networks
Country
A cozy rustic design that stands out for its features: simplicity in textures and materials, forged and wicker elements, decor of natural fabrics, natural shades of warm pastel colors. Rigid textures and rough shapes lead directly to natural wood - a material that perfectly emphasizes the style. Stone is the second companion from which you can make a countertop for a work surface or an apron. Only in conditions of small meters, it is still not worth using massive structures made of wood or stone, it is better to do with finishing or light decoration, for example, cover the floor with a rough oak board and hang curtains made of natural linen. A modern approach allows you to replace natural materials with safe alternatives.
Country.
Photo: social networks
Modern design of a small kitchen
The modern interior of a small kitchen does not impose certain rules on its design. The most important thing is to reflect in the interior personal preferences about coziness, beauty and comfort. When creating a design, you can even combine the features of different styles, but do not forget about harmony and aesthetics. Simple materials, neutral tones and modern high-tech appliances will definitely help in shaping the look of your unique kitchen.
The right tone
Fresh meadow hues, light pinks or the more classic all-time colors of white or cream are perfect for decorating a small kitchen. By applying the right tone, a visual feeling of a spacious room is immediately created. In addition, the interiors of the kitchen, made in a neutral style, always look neat and monolithic.
Do not forget about the trendy shades of 2022: fresh meadow, sea, delicate pink and terracotta.
Photo: social networks
Monochrome interiors of small kitchens with white walls, floors and furniture are a real trend in 2022. Such a design technique will erase the “pressing boundaries” of a cramped space and create a feeling of spaciousness. You can also use several shades of white and combine contrasting textures: a glass backsplash with glossy or matte kitchen fronts, and the walls can be decorated with imitation brickwork.
Photo: social networks
If you like accents, then you can consider a refrigerator, an interesting countertop or curtains as such.
Built-in storage system
Hidden storage systems are the most relevant option not only for a small kitchen, it is a modern trend.
For those who like to cook often, as a rule, there are many different accessories in the arsenal that must be hidden somewhere. In this case, you can additionally use the height - extend the kitchen set to the ceiling with another additional tier. Such a storage space will allow you to arrange holiday dishes, jars of jam or kitchen utensils that are used less frequently.
Photo: social networks
Pay attention to functional transforming furniture and kitchen sets for built-in appliances. Folding tables, custom ways to store accessories: cabinets can include hidden corners for appliances, spice racks can be easily attached to the inside edge of the cabinet door, and the wall can be used to attach essentials.
Photo: social networks
Compactness in storage of dishes will become more utilitarian if you purchase pots and pans that can be folded into each other.
Think over a strategy, how drawers and cabinet doors will open, what set of devices you need - as a result, the creation process will turn into an exciting quest.
Built-in "smart" mini appliances
Even a small kitchen can be fully equipped with all the necessary functions for convenient cooking. Household appliances should be built-in, not stationary. This will save a little more useful centimeters of area, and give the kitchen set the integrity of the working area. Choose household appliances that combine several useful functions at once: a slow cooker - a bread machine, a double boiler - an oven - a microwave. The hood must also be compact, otherwise it will look ridiculous.
Photo: social networks
The hob is usually standard and includes four burners at once. Think about how often you use all? If not, then you should give preference to a two-burner built-in module.
It is designed exactly like a full-fledged hob, only much smaller in width.
The refrigerator can be placed in a non-standard way - under the worktop. Of course, such models of refrigerators are somewhat inferior in capacity to standard ones, but if there is not enough space, the option is quite relevant.
Round table
Instead of the standard rectangular table, which often looks a little bulky, choose an alternative - oval or round. Such a table looks more ergonomic and is able to give the small meters of the kitchen some space.
Photo: social networks
Accordingly, match the look of the table with chairs that are light in appearance and weight. The trend is still made of polycarbonate, creating the effect of "invisibility" and at the same time easy to use.
Photo: social networks
Rejection of the door
The door is another interior element that can take up space in the kitchen.
The "door rejection" technique is often used in the design of small kitchens, for example, in Khrushchev, because it increases the area that can be used to arrange furniture. At the same time, the opening can be designed according to the chosen style, resorting to platbands or stucco molding, or even transform it into an arch. But if you do not accept the absence of this element, then you should install a door with an outward opening or pick up a sliding one.
Photo: social networks
Use of the window sill
The window sill can be used for other than its intended purpose: turn it into a countertop. This solution is not only one of the most popular in modern design, but also helps to visually expand the space of small kitchens. In addition, the tabletop provides two full-fledged dining places, which is ideal for a small family.
Photo: social networks
Covering with mirror elements
Mirrors in a small area can visually expand the space almost twice.
The main thing is to place them correctly and not overdo it. A great option is to hang a mirror near the window, because in this way the influx of natural light will increase in the room. It is also appropriate to cover only a fragment of the wall with a mirror, for example, emphasizing only the dining area.
Photo: social networks
If you like the unusual, then you can take note of the mirror mosaics and panels. You need to select a mirror shape following the chosen style and configuration of the small kitchen. One of the bold tricks is the placement of mirror elements instead of an apron. It is resorted to when the countertop has a rather narrow size, thereby visually expanding it. Sometimes mirrors can also replace facades on a kitchen set. In this case, strength plays an important role - choose the most durable mirror glass, because when subjected to mechanical stress, it should not crack.
Remodeling
If the location of the kitchen is adjacent, for example, to a living room or a loggia, then the problem can be solved by combining the two rooms.
This step will help create the feeling of a spacious modern space, as well as make the small kitchen much brighter. At the same time, it is not necessary to demolish the entire wall, part of it can be turned into a bar counter or given under a functional countertop.
A visually combined room can be zoned using different floor or wall finishes - this technique will help to avoid confusion and harmoniously connect two rooms into one. For example, the kitchen area can be emphasized with tiles, and the living area with parquet.
Photo: social networks
Using a multi-level ceiling to decorate the kitchen area will help divide the space and hide the necessary communications. With the help of glass partitions and sliding doors, it is possible to provide for competent zoning of two spaces. Another useful technique is separation with furniture. At the border of the two zones, place a sofa, a rack or an island table, but at the same time, these elements should not interfere with the penetration of natural light into the room.
Photo: social networks
Classic design of a small kitchen worth avoiding. For example, massive window frames and lush chandeliers simply will not find their proper place in a small kitchen. It is also worth choosing more restrained and compact pieces of furniture with a concise design.
Photo: social networks
Small kitchen design in Khrushchev
Practicality and minimalism are two faithful companions for any small kitchen in Khrushchev. In addition to placing everything you need in a small area, you need to remember about ease of use.
The kitchen set is the most visible and sometimes cumbersome element. For a small kitchen, it should be more ergonomic and neat, with plain facades without noticeable details and gaps.
The comfortable use of the "working triangle", namely the refrigerator, stove and sink, depends on the configuration of the kitchen set. The main points of activity fall on the corners of the figure, between which a person must move freely when cooking. In the conditions of a small-sized kitchen, it is best to use sets in the shape of the letter P or G. At the same time, options for a linear or parallel arrangement of the set are not excluded. The final layout depends on the parameters of a particular room, the location of window and door openings, as well as the main communications.
Photo: social networks
Interesting
Interior design
The main trend in interior design is change. The new decade sets the direction for fresh trends and cultural shifts. Our home is a place where you can escape from the noisy world, even if only for a short time. At the same time, every human soul wants to plunge into refined comfort and warm cosiness.
If there is not enough variety, then you can add zest to the kitchen interior with the help of an apron made of durable triplex glass, after placing an interesting print on its surface. As for the dining area, often small kitchens cannot accommodate a full-fledged one, so you have to look for another solution. One good option would be to place a narrow bar counter with high stools or folding structures. The role of the dining table can be perfectly performed by a converted window sill.
Photo: social networks
Small kitchen design 6 sq. m
The secret of a successful kitchen layout of 6 sq. meters, primarily determined by the placement of all kitchen furniture. Since the main filling of the kitchen is household appliances and furniture, it is worthwhile to determine in advance the exact location of the refrigerator, stove and sink.
Here, sometimes you can’t do without the services of manufacturing custom-made furniture strictly according to your size, because standard items, as a rule, occupy much more than the usable area of a small-sized kitchen. It also gives an incomparable advantage, because such kitchens are truly unique.
When designing an interior, do not focus too much on small details. Choose the style you like and create within it. Some elements are perfectly acceptable to be replaced by available alternatives. For the design of a kitchen of 6 square meters. meters, palettes of light shades, oval and round shapes of objects are ideal. But clear lines in this case should be avoided, as they can already narrow the small space of the kitchen.
Photo: social networks
If the room is in the shape of a square, then a U-shaped kitchen unit is ideal. A sink can be placed at the window, and the stove and refrigerator are symmetrically closer to the center of the walls.
Thus, the fastest access to the main vertices of the "working triangle" will be fully provided. The L-shaped headset can be used if you intend to leave free space for the dining area. It is best to mount the sink in the corner, and the rest of the items on opposite sides of it. Narrower rooms resembling a rectangle are optimal for accommodating a linear and parallel headset.
Photo: social networks
Small kitchen design 5 sq. m
Small kitchen area of 5 sq. meters often leads to difficulties for its owner, because it is still a task to properly organize the workspace and dining area. First of all, in order to get a functional and cozy room for a small kitchen, you need to think over the “working triangle”. It is necessary to engage in the process of cooking in conditions of convenience, when all interior elements and objects are located in direct access.
Therefore, the functionality of furniture arrangement implies the maximum rammed number of interior items without frills. Kitchen sets in their configuration can be very different: L- and U-shaped, as well as linear and parallel. Making furniture to order will be the best option for organizing the space of a small kitchen. The more tasks one item can do, the better. Transformer furniture is the most anticipated design that will allow you to successfully use all the compartments for storing various kitchen accessories.
Photo: social networks
You can also resort to combining space, which will increase the kitchen area. You can combine with a living room or a loggia. Between the two rooms, you can install a sliding glass loft partition or an arched opening. Loft partitions have a great advantage - a thin profile and high throughput, due to which the kitchen room will be filled with daylight. You can also use a standard door, but with a glass sheet, which will also allow you to adjust the small footage.
An interesting accent will also help to win the area, visually distracting attention from the modest meters of the kitchen.
Small corner kitchen design
Furniture and household appliances are located near two adjacent walls, forming the letter L, thus leaving room for a full-fledged dining area. To create such a kitchen in a small area, you need a room that is close to a square in shape, then all the elements will be conveniently located, and not just fill the useful centimeters of the area. In addition, the corner option can be called a universal option for arranging a kitchen in any style.
Corner kitchen options depend on how the furniture is connected. It can be done in three ways, as a result of which the design of the corner pedestal takes on a different shape: straight, beveled or semicircular.
A right angle connection is the most functional and convenient way in a small kitchen area. Thus, it will turn out to arrange the headset more compactly and conveniently.
Photo: social networks
Corner kitchen, allows you to put a refrigerator, sink and stove according to the rules of the "working triangle" - at an equal distance from each other. This will save time for cooking, because all the main items will be directly accessible. The system of internal storage of kitchen utensils is also fully provided, it is possible to zone the space into a working and dining area. Think over the little things - for how many people the kitchen is equipped, what appliances can include several devices at once, etc.
Photo: social networks
Light sources play an equally important role in the visual expansion of space, but with them, as well as with decor, the rule of harmonious quantity applies, contributing to coziness in the room.
It is better to hang the main light source above the dining area or in the center, and in addition, spotlights can be placed along the perimeter of the ceiling. Do not forget about the work area, be sure to organize a lighting scenario for it, using LED strips and a separate switch.
Expert opinion
Denis Serov, interior designer Such a kitchen usually has a solid color, lightly milled fronts, and the general trend is to extend the upper cabinets to the ceiling. It is necessary to dissolve the appearance of the headset and place your accessories behind minimalist facades, so the modern kitchen interior will become light and attractive.
Popular Questions and Answers
If the kitchen is small, the following guidelines must be followed.
Decide whether you need a stove with four burners or just two, so you can provide +30 cm to the worktop, which is missing the most.
Kitchen cabinets are best made up to the ceiling. At the same time, the upper cabinets should not be split into two parts, but made one high (1 m high). If the ceiling height of the kitchen is more than 2.7 m, then you can divide the cabinets into two parts.
The oven is best placed under the hob and the microwave oven (if required) in the upper drawers. The freed up space can be added to the kitchen worktop.
Refrigerator not built-in is better - it's more democratic (and the kitchen itself will cost less), but it is larger in volume by about 25%. Usually the layout of the kitchen is close in shape to a square or rectangle, with a door on one side and a window on the other. A wall with a window is often not filled with furniture due to a battery. Therefore, as an option, deepen the battery into the wall and continue the kitchen along the wall with a window.
There is nothing more sophisticated than a window sink.
In 90% of cases it will be right to have a white kitchen and light walls. Photo: pexels.com
Basic tricks to visually expand the space of a small kitchen?
In 90% of cases it will be right to make a white kitchen and light walls. Apron - large-format tiles. On the floor, too, you do not need to grind. The ideal tile size is 60 * 60 mm, this condition also applies to the apron. Place cabinets close to the ceiling to visually raise the height of the room, because usually they are not high in small apartments and Khrushchevs.
For those who are especially brave, I would recommend mirrors, for example, on the wall next to the table. The ceilings are white and without levels (it would be good to use a stretch matte ceiling). It is better to choose porcelain stoneware for the floor and for the backsplash of the same color, and indeed from the same collection, so that there are fewer colors and textures.
What are the best trending color combinations and textures for small kitchen design?
I would use 80% white. I would give warm shades to the floor and countertop. The room and the suite can be made white, and bright-colored chairs, curtains or an apron can be used as an accent. It will look aesthetically expensive, and visually a small room will seem larger. Solutions are also good when light gray is used in combination with a white kitchen.
How should small kitchens be lit?
The first lighting group is the backsplash lighting, the second is the lamps along the kitchen furniture. It is very cozy when there is a chandelier hanging low over the table. She zones the dining group, even if the kitchen is not large.
Do not forget that the top drawers of a kitchen set may not always be deaf.
