Not everyone’s home is blessed with a sprawling kitchen like those that grace the pages of luxe home magazines, in fact it’s far more normal to have a compact space where you wish fit in a number of different elements, often including a breakfast table or bar.
Decorating a small kitchen can feel like solving a complex puzzle. Every inch counts, and the goal is to craft a space that is as functional as it is inviting. Fortunately, a small kitchen doesn’t mean you have to compromise on style, and here we’re going to show you how you can achieve this with ease.
Choose light colours to brighten the space
Starting with a light colour palette is like giving your kitchen a breath of fresh air. Soft whites, pastels, and neutral tones reflect light, making the room feel larger and more open. These hues create a calming backdrop, allowing your kitchen to feel clean and bright. Consider painting walls and cabinets in a unified light shade, which serves to visually extend the space, inviting both residents and guests to feel more at ease.
Consider your floor tiles
The use of large-format, glossy tiles is a clever design trick that not only beautifies your kitchen, but also tricks the eye into perceiving more space than actually exists, giving your small kitchen a grander ambiance.
These expansive tiles minimise grout lines, lending an uninterrupted, open feel to the floor. The glossy finish, meanwhile, reflects light and contributes to a sense of spaciousness. Target Tiles offer a range of tiling options for your kitchen which can cater to your aesthetic and practical needs.
Create a focal point to draw the eye
Every room needs a star, and in your small kitchen, that’s the focal point. This could be a vibrant backsplash, a piece of art, or a stylish light fixture – anything that draws the eye and adds personality to your home.
By creating a focal point, you guide the observer’s attention to a specific spot, which can distract from the kitchen’s small size and give it a dose of charm. It’s an opportunity to showcase your style and breathe life into the space.
Utilise vertical space: think up, not out
In a petite kitchen, think vertically. Install shelves above the countertop, or consider a hanging pot rack. Even the space on the fridge can be used for storage, or the side of a cabinet for a spice rack. It’s all about optimising every possible inch, and looking upwards opens a new dimension of possibilities. Elevating your storage also draws the eye upward, creating the illusion of a taller and more expansive space.
Maximise your storage for a clutter-free environment
Clutter is the enemy of small spaces, so to keep your counters clear and your mind calm, focus on smart storage solutions. Think pull-out pantry shelves, drawer dividers, and lazy Susans in corner cabinets. Clutter causes stress and anxiety for many people, so it is important to keep your space clutter-free, no matter the size.
Additionally, consider installing a magnetic strip for knives and a pot rack to free up valuable drawer and cabinet space. In a small kitchen, every inch is precious; make the most of yours with thoughtful, efficient storage strategies.
Embrace minimalism for a clean and open feel
Minimalism isn’t just a design trend; it’s a way of living that celebrates simplicity and intentionality. In a small kitchen, this philosophy is a game-changer. Keep your counters as clear as possible and be discerning about what you keep on display.
Choose furniture and appliances with clean lines and simple designs. By paring down to the essentials, you invite a sense of serenity and openness into your kitchen, turning it into a space that feels good to be in.
Opt for foldable and retractable elements
In a compact kitchen, flexibility is your friend. Consider incorporating foldable or retractable elements, such as a drop-leaf table, foldable chairs, or a retractable prep station. These versatile pieces allow you to extend your work surface when you need it and tuck it away when you don’t.
A pull-out cutting board, for instance, can be a game-changer during meal prep and slid out of sight when not in use. These smart solutions allow you to adapt your space to your needs at any given moment, giving you the freedom to cook comfortably without permanently sacrificing precious floor space.
