Are you feeling a tight squeeze in your compact kitchen space? Well, living with a small kitchen doesn’t mean sacrificing the style and functionality. When you maximize storage, have multipurpose appliances, and practical elements, you will create a space that’s both beautiful and efficient. We are going to get you on your way to making every square inch count with these small kitchen ideas.
Maximize Storage
Many “tiny-home” trendsetters have proven several ways to compact a residential size kitchen into the size of a walk-in closet. Sometimes this might mean you have to purchase a more organized set of tupperware or mixing bowls. Because all of those mismatched pieces are a major waste of space. Look for large sets of assorted sizes that conveniently fit together to save space.
There are a few ways you can transform your cabinets into an organized storage spot. Here are three small kitchen ideas for maximizing your cabinet space.
Use vertical space by installing cabinets that extend all the way to the ceiling. This not only expands storage but also draws the eye upwards, making your kitchen feel larger. Try using the top shelves for items you rarely use, like holiday dishes or large serving platters.
Adding pull-out shelves will improve the accessibility to the things in your cabinets. You can easily reach items in the back and not deal with digging through a cluttered mess. These shelves are super handy when it comes to heavy pots and pans.
Install door racks for the little things like spices, cleaning supplies, or small utensils. You can fit quite a bit of miscellaneous items on the inside of your cabinet doors. This makes things easy by keeping them within arm’s reach while freeing up valuable shelf space.
Use Open Shelving for Spacious Displays
Your new set of wine glasses or collection of funky coffee mugs are items you should show off. They are a part of your personality, style, and vibe. Stick some dome lights above to really make the display stand out. Here are a few more reasons why you should take a couple of cabinet doors off.
Decorative baskets can hold fruits, vegetables, and easy-to-grab snacks. This not only keeps items tidy but also adds a touch of rustic charm. Use themed or specific kind of baskets all around the house to tie in the open shelving display.
Mix and match styles to create a unique look and aesthetic. Switching up the styles of what you have on display not only makes your kitchen feel more personalized but opens up a ton of other small kitchen ideas.
Try These Hidden Storage Tricks
Let’s face it, cramming everything into a small kitchen can feel a little like playing Tetris… blindfolded. And we aren’t talking about storing all of your baking sheets in the bottom drawer of the stove. (That’s actually used for keeping food warm while making larger meals!) Use these small kitchen ideas for hidden storage instead.
Roll in the kitchen cart! It’s basically a party on wheels – just add snacks and drinks! A kitchen cart will give you more counter space and hide away chunky, not-so-oftenly used appliances. Make sure to grab one with multiple tiers and maybe even a wine rack. Because, priorities.
Get hooked… on storage hooks, that is. These things are so versatile and can solve almost any storage kitchen problem. Some small kitchen ideas for hooks are using them under your cabinets to hang mugs, inside pantry doors to hold measuring spoons, or create a chic pot rack on an empty wall.
Magnetic strips are so versatile, and you can just slap on the wall, seriously they are so easy to install. It’s a smart way to store knives and any other metal kitchen tool. It will keep these items visible and accessible, all while freeing up counter and drawer space. You can even stick magnets on the back of smaller things like spices and hang them on the strip.
Embrace Multipurpose Appliances
It’s the bulky staples of our kitchen that make it hard to think up small kitchen ideas. The main goal is to go compact but still mighty. Nowadays, many appliances like refrigerators also have a built-in freezer instead of it being a separate unit. Here are more updated small kitchen ideas for those bulky appliances.
Blenders + Food Processor
More updated blenders have additional blades or attachments. You can dice, chop, mince, purée, etc., all with one multifunctional device. Not saying that it’s an excuse, but, grab some frozen fruit at the store, and you’ll start making smoothies on the daily.
Dual-Duty Dishwashers
Having an additional third rack that also functions as a drying rack is getting rid of a cluttered eyesore. A built-in ice and water dispenser saves space in both your fridge and freezer. Also, having adjustable shelving and ones that slide out help to accommodate every meal and late-night snack visible.
The G.O.A.T. Air Fryer
If you haven’t hopped on board of the air fryer trend, and you’re looking for small kitchen ideas…. sorry, it’s time. The evolution of this multipurpose appliance is going to do more than just save you space. For the busy moms, throwing a bag of chicken nuggets in there for 8 minutes will feed the kids. Plus it’s more tasty than the microwave, but you’ll have to see that for yourself.
Incorporate Clever Design Elements
The best advice for small kitchen ideas from elite interior designers isn’t always about the appliances and counter space. There are clever design hacks that can trick the eye into thinking the room is more spacious. These are a few alternative elements to think about.
Lighten up the Vibe
Whether it’s LED lights for efficiency or pendant lights over the bulky kitchen island, lighting can actually illuminate small spaces. The modern trend that has really taken over is the backlit cabinets. You’ll be happy if you go the LED route for lights you plan on keeping on 24/7, they last forever and cost you pennies.
Play with Colors and Materials
Renters are sometimes limited to certain small kitchen ideas. Drilling holes in the wall, upgrading the large appliances, and especially not knocking down walls to add more space. But many rentals encourage you to settle in and feel at home to hang pictures, shelves, and even paint walls. Bring in a few vibrant dish towels and bright rugs against chrome and stainless steel surfaces.
Final Thoughts on Small Kitchen Ideas with Big Style
Testing out different storage solutions and design strategies might take some time and a few minor adjustments. Take advantage of vertical space. Better yet, invest in some collapsible kitchen items.