HOW DO I CREATE A FUNCTIONAL AND BEAUTIFUL KITCHEN IN MY SMALL FOOTPRINT?

By Jenny Cazares

What do I do with my small kitchen space?

Having a small kitchen doesn’t mean you have to compromise style and functionality.

It might feel challenging as you think about possible changes, and how to create your new kitchen. You want it to be functional, and you want all of your finishes to come together to create a beautiful new space. You might just need to be extra creative.

There should be complete confidence in your cabinet partner to design the best layout that works well for you and your lifestyle. They will collaborate with you every step of the process, as well as guide you in selecting door styles and cabinet finishes. 

If you are looking for someone to pull all of your design elements and finishes together, i.e. flooring, countertops, backsplash, light fixtures, sink and faucets, knobs and pulls, wall finishes, then it might make sense to reach out to an interior designer. 

How can I maximize space in my small kitchen & create extra storage?

• Extend your wall cabinets and crown all the way to the ceiling. It will offer you extra storage, and will draw your eye vertically from floor to ceiling making your space feel larger
• Add second tier cabinetry if your ceiling height allows
• Choose 3 or 4 drawer base cabinets for excellent storage
• Base cabinets with rollouts are another great option for easy access to the items in your cabinets
• Include a small island (if space allows)
• If you don’t have space for a permanently installed island, consider as island on rollers
• Include a Lazy Susan in your corner cabinet. The lazy susans of today are not what your grandmother had!
• Include a blind corner insert in your blind corner cabinet
• Add wood shelves or dish racks on empty wall space
• Hang a rack from the ceiling; or a rustic wood ladder with hooks for pots and pans
• Design a floor to ceiling wall pantry with pull outs to store items like your microwave and toaster, this will keep countertops free and clear
• Choose a slide in range with micro above
• Add cabinets above your peninsula. Use glass doors on both sides to create an openness, while giving you the extra storage space

What cabinet finish would make my kitchen feel larger?

Cabinets with a white finish are the best option for creating an open, bright, airy space. If you would like to add some color or mix and match your cabinetry, I would recommend a very pale shade such as light gray for the base, and white for the wall cabinets.

Clear woods, with no stain, are currently very popular. If you love the look of wood, I would try to include this look somewhere in your kitchen. 

You could include some wood open shelves. Or maybe a combination of cabinets with a wood look and cabinets with a painted finish. You could choose a lighter grain wood for your base cabinets, and wall cabinets in a light painted finish. You’ll create a warm, inviting space without compromising style or causing your space to feel smaller.

You could choose a dark painted cabinet or dark stained wood, but it will make your kitchen space feel smaller and more closed in. 

Can I create a cozy eat-in area in my small kitchen?

If you have a small eat-in kitchen, and if you have the space, create a cozy nook in your new kitchen design. Not only will it serve as your daily eating area, but it will also be a great place to hang with friends when they pop over. 

This is a fun space to make all your own. Express your style with cushions, pillows, and matching bench seating from your custom cabinet partner! Add contrasting wood shelves and don’t forget about lighting. Just because you have a small kitchen space doesn’t mean you can’t go big; so make a statement!

Designing a small kitchen can be challenging, but it can also be a lot of fun! You’ll be budgeting for less cabinetry for your space, and this allows you to add some extra features, and beautiful details. You can focus on items like a gorgeous hood, decorative glass tile backsplash, wood open shelves, a designer sink, or incredible lighting!

Once you and your cabinet partner have created the perfect layout and design for your small kitchen, have fun with your finishes, and enjoy creating a space that reflects your unique style!