They say that a kitchen is the heart of the home. It’s where you craft delicious meals for people you love, it serves as a congregating spot during a party or event, and it holds space for both memories past and yet to come. This is true no matter the size of the space. Even if you’re working with a small kitchen, it makes sense to optimize every square inch so it becomes a place where you enjoy spending time. From cozy seating nooks to clever organizational tips, these small kitchen ideas deliver big impact without compromising style or function.
Be Intentional With Every Square Inch
Space is a valuable commodity in a tiny kitchen, so make the most of every square inch. In this design by Anastasia Casey, floating shelves are added wherever possible, counters are thoughtfully elongated, and a petite oven range allows for more counter space.
I’ve seen firsthand how much difference a well-placed shelf can make in a cramped kitchen. When I helped a friend redesign her tiny apartment kitchen, we added floating shelves above the countertop, which not only gave her more storage but also made the space feel less cluttered. A study from the National Kitchen and Bath Association shows that 70% of homeowners prioritize storage in small kitchen designs, so consider multi-functional furniture, like a pull-out cutting board or a foldable table, to maximize utility. Pro tip: measure twice before installing anything to ensure you’re not wasting even a centimeter!
Take Cabinets to the Ceiling
Leverage vertical space by taking your cabinets to the ceiling, says Libby Palmieri, principal at House of L Designs. “Taking the cabinets to the ceiling helped the space [pictured above] feel much larger at only 88 square feet,” she says.
This trick really does wonders for making a small kitchen feel grander. In my own home, extending cabinets upward not only added storage but also drew the eye up, creating an illusion of height. Experts suggest using glass-fronted upper cabinets to keep the space airy, as solid panels can feel heavy. If you’re on a budget, you can often retrofit existing cabinets with extensions for about $200-$500, depending on materials, which is way cheaper than a full remodel.
Keep the Island Open Underneath
If your small kitchen has enough room for an island, consider keeping it open underneath. “This keeps the space from feeling too crowded and blocky,” says Bethany Adams of Bethany Adams Interiors.
An open island is a game-changer for flow. I’ve noticed in small kitchens that a solid island base can make the room feel like a maze. By keeping it open, you’re letting light and air move freely, which is key in tight spaces. For a practical touch, add baskets or decorative boxes under the island for extra storage without sacrificing that breezy vibe. Just make sure the baskets match your aesthetic—mismatched ones can make things look chaotic.
Add Shelving Above the Sink
Unless there’s a window above a kitchen sink, this space tends to remain empty. Make the most of it by adding a few rows of open shelving, as seen in this design by Caren Rideau. The area still feels open while providing more storage.
This is such a clever use of overlooked space. In a friend’s kitchen, we installed a simple wooden shelf above the sink for spices and small jars, and it freed up so much counter space. According to a Houzz survey, 65% of homeowners regret not planning enough storage in their kitchens, so don’t sleep on this idea. Use sturdy brackets and keep the shelves narrow to avoid bumping your head while washing dishes—trust me, I learned that the hard way!
Embrace Rich Tones and Textures
A standard white kitchen can sometimes come across as cold and without much personality. The infusion of color and texture in this space is a kitchen trend that’s here to stay. A palette of rich tones makes this small kitchen design by Avery Cox feel luxurious and intimate.
I’m all about adding warmth to a small kitchen. A deep green or warm terracotta can make the space feel like a cozy hug, especially when paired with textures like wood or matte finishes. Designers note that richer colors can make a small space feel more intentional, but balance is key—stick to one or two bold tones to avoid overwhelming the room. A small can of high-quality paint for an accent wall can cost as little as $30, making this an easy way to add personality.
Consider Splashy Bright Colors, Too
If you do like the bright white look, break up the monotony with some carefully placed splashy colors. The aqua backsplash pictured here brings this space to life without feeling kitschy.
A pop of color can totally transform a sterile white kitchen. I once added a bright yellow tile backsplash to a rental, and it instantly made the space feel cheerful. Bright colors like aqua or coral work well because they reflect light, keeping the room airy. For a low-commitment option, try peel-and-stick tiles, which can cost under $100 for a small backsplash and are renter-friendly.
Incorporate a Skylight
Small spaces have a tendency to feel dark, so incorporate natural light as best as you can. “We added a gabled skylight over the center island to help bring in natural light and act as an architectural ‘crown’ in an otherwise simple space,” says Palmieri.
Skylights are a dream for small kitchens, flooding them with light and making them feel twice as big. I’ve seen this work wonders in a friend’s tiny cottage kitchen. If a skylight isn’t in the budget (installation can run $1,000-$3,000), consider solar tubes, which are cheaper and still bring in natural light. Just make sure to hire a pro to avoid roof leaks—nothing ruins a kitchen vibe like water damage!
Opt For an Open Layout
Open floor plans aren’t going anywhere soon, and that’s certainly true of kitchens that open into dining or living spaces. That concept is demonstrated beautifully here in a small kitchen by Re: Design Architects. “Opting for an open-format kitchen in a small living space is a smart move because it optimizes your area by eliminating walls or partitions, making it look and feel more spacious,” says Kinlaw. “This design choice also enhances natural light flow and encourages social interaction.”
I love how an open layout makes a small kitchen feel like part of the action. In my old apartment, knocking down a half-wall between the kitchen and living room made it so much easier to chat with guests while cooking. Studies show open layouts can increase perceived space by up to 20%, and they’re great for small homes where every square foot counts. Just be mindful of clutter—open spaces mean everything’s on display, so keep counters tidy.
Take Your Cue From the Home’s Style
It’s important that your kitchen feels like a part of your home versus a completely different space. This 1920s farmhouse kitchen, designed by Cory Rodeheaver, embraces the original feel with beautiful arches and cabinetry. “The final design captured the period and style of the existing home, yet produced a kitchen that was functional and allowed plenty of room for new ‘modern’ appliances,” he says.
Matching your kitchen to your home’s vibe is key to a cohesive look. When I updated my 1940s bungalow kitchen, I kept the vintage tile but added modern appliances, blending old and new. If you’re in a historic home, consider salvaged materials like reclaimed wood for shelves—it’s eco-friendly and can cost less than new materials, often around $10-$20 per square foot.
Install Corner Shelving
Cabinets can feel a bit clunky in teeny spaces. As an alternative, consider swapping in floating corner shelves, as seen in this design by interior designer Sam Lund.
Corner shelves are a lifesaver in tight kitchens. I added some in my last place, and they held everything from spice jars to small plants, keeping the counters clear. They’re also super affordable—basic brackets and wood can cost under $50 at a hardware store. Just make sure they’re securely anchored, especially if you’re storing heavier items like dishes.
