Does your kitchen feel cramped and cluttered? Many people come to us struggling with a small kitchen that feels more like a closet than a culinary heaven. Over the last 35 years, we have been designing and installing kitchens and have developed some tips and tricks on how to make a small kitchen feel larger.
Being the heart of every home, your kitchen should be a space where meals are made and memories are shared. So how can you transform your small kitchen into a spacious and welcoming area that you will love spending time in?
Maximise natural light
Natural light is your best friend when it comes to making any space feel bigger. It really opens up the room, creating a wonderful airy space that can even boost your mood. If you’re lucky enough to have strategically placed windows in your kitchen, then make the most of them. Avoid heavy curtains and instead opt for light, airy shades or blinds. If applicable, a skylight will flood your kitchen with sunlight and make the ceiling feel higher.
Choosing the right colour scheme
Creating the illusion of a larger kitchen often begins with the colour scheme. A light and bright palette is paramount. Light shades of white, cream or pastel shades tend to make a room feel more expansive. Apply these neutral shades across kitchen cabinets, walls, and flooring to create a cohesive look that expands the space. Don’t be afraid to add a pop of colour here and there, but keep the overall palette light and cohesive.
Clever storage solutions
Maximising storage is crucial if you want to create more physical space in your kitchen. Pull-out cabinets, hidden drawers, and corner units can maximise every inch of space. Lazy Susans, pull-out pantry shelves, and drawer dividers keep everything organised and easily accessible. Smart storage solutions like that can declutter a space and allow for a roomier environment.
In the same sense, a cluttered countertop is the enemy of a small kitchen. Keep your countertops as clear as possible by storing away appliances and utensils when they’re not in use. Use drawer organisers, under-cabinet storage, and wall-mounted racks to keep everything in its place. A clean, uncluttered countertop makes the space look larger and more inviting.
Open shelving
Integrating open shelving into your kitchen design is a fantastic way to enhance the feeling of space and openness. It not only provides storage but also creates a level of visual depth that closed cabinets can’t match. Additionally, open shelving can also play a decorative role, giving you the opportunity to display your beautiful dishes, glassware, and even cookbooks. To keep it from looking cluttered, stick to a cohesive colour scheme and avoid overcrowding the shelves. A few well-placed items can make a big impact. And perhaps even lift your worktop bits onto shelves; clearing the worktops really helps with space saving!
Focus on the flooring
The right flooring can make a big difference in how spacious your kitchen feels. Opting for light colours when choosing materials such as hardwood, laminate, or tiles can significantly contribute to the illusion of space, as they reflect light throughout the room. High-gloss, large-format tiles can be particularly effective, further enhancing this reflective effect and contributing to a sense of openness. Use board effects to widen or lengthen a narrow room appropriately.
Karndean flooring is one of the most popular options available at Russ Deacon, and we believe it is the perfect choice for every home.
Choose the right lighting
Lighting is potentially the most important component of a kitchen. In small spaces, it is important to combine different sources, such as functional lighting, spotlights, recess lighting, and ambient lighting.
When planning the lighting, it’s crucial to steer clear of visual overcrowding. Opting for ceiling-close fixtures rather than hanging pendants can maintain a more open feel and prevent the space from feeling cramped.
Keep it simple
Less is often more, especially in a small kitchen. A more minimalist slab design can prevent the space from feeling crowded. Choose sleek, simple lines for cabinets and furniture. When it comes to decorative pieces, focus on bringing in plants to bring some life to the space. Small potted herbs on the windowsill, a hanging plant, or even a vertical garden can make your kitchen feel more vibrant and spacious. Plus, you’ll have fresh herbs on hand for cooking!
Want to speak to a professional?
Transforming a small kitchen into a larger-feeling space is all about making smart choices and utilising clever design tricks. With these tips, your small kitchen can become a stylish and functional hub of your home. If you are interested in booking a home design visit from us, feel free to get in touch at 01323 642075.
There are many tips and tricks on how to make a small kitchen feel larger – what else have we missed? We’d also love to hear about your next home improvement project and help you achieve your vision.
