40 great ideas to plan a small kitchen

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Reforma de Cozinha - Florianópolis, Marina Turnes Arquitetura & Interiores Marina Turnes Arquitetura & Interiores Moderne Küchen
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If you're living in a big city, chances are that you don't exactly have the world's biggest kitchen. When it comes to paring down, the kitchen is one of the first spaces to take the hit. Unless you live off of microwaved and readymade foods, you're likely to be spending a considerable amount of time in the kitchen and expect a certain comfort. A small kitchen may throw up design challenges but in no way does that mean that you cannot have a fully functional space that is simultaneously aesthetically appealing. Yes, you can have both. When planning a small kitchen, there are tried-and-tested techniques that you can adopt (some of which we have detailed below), but you can also let your creative juices flow and improvise. Just keep these in mind:

Lighting is crucial in a small space and is directly correlated to the colour palette. Dark colours, contrary to your first thought, are not counter-productive for a small space, and can actually create a warm and comfortable atmosphere provided that they are complemented with elaborate lighting and/or plenty of natural sunlight. A white or neutral colour palette, on the other hand, ensures that light bounces off of its surfaces, and therefore requires less artificial lighting. There are also tricks you can adopt to create a sense of spaciousness: mirrors, for example, act as a reflective surface and increase the feeling of depth in a room. 

It is also crucial that you keep a small kitchen completely clutter free; this calls for plenty of storage and organised working spaces. Utensils and kitchen accessories can be stored away either in closed or open storage shelves. Make use of every nook and corner with smart storage solutions such as corner drawers and pull-outs wherever possible. Ceiling-high cabinets are also a great way to increase storage space while ensuring that the kitchen doesn't feel claustrophobic. Integrated kitchen spaces are also a smart solution for small spaces. 

To better illustrate space-saving ideas, we'll take a look at a bunch of small kitchens that have been efficiently planned and laid out – proving that a lack of space doesn't need to cramp your style. Take a look and be inspired to plan or remodel your kitchen and make it your new favourite spot!

1. A corner drawer is an effective solution for an awkward kitchen space.

Harbourside kitchen, Tim Jasper Tim Jasper Landhaus Küchen

2. White finishes give the impression of spaciousness and ensure improved lighting

3. Modern shelves and bright lights create a contemporary atmosphere and make everyday life easier

4. Cabinets up to the ceiling optimise available space; great solution for compact kitchens

homify Moderne Küchen

5. The long bench transforms the kitchen into a multi-purpose room that can be used as a study

6. Wall-mount kitchen appliances like the microwave to free up the workspace

Proyecto Constitució , Dröm Living Dröm Living Industriale Küchen Schränke und Regale

7. Integrated spaces are extremely practical and perfect for small homes

8. Minimalist cabinets and good lighting open up this tiny kitchen space

9. The burst of colour complements the white and gives the space a wow factor

10. Recessed lighting is an intelligent solution for workspaces.

homify Minimalistische Küchen MDF

11. Black and white is a classic combination that works well even in kitchens

Apartamento DE, Arquitetura 1 Arquitetura 1 Minimalistische Küchen

12. Integrated appliances is a good way to optimise space

homify Minimalistische Küchen Granit

13. Using colour in unusual places like the working bench adds a playful element

14. Stylish and modern, this kitchen is simple and functional

Casa R, Architrek Architrek Moderne Küchen

15. A breakfast bar is a great addition if you don't have enough space for a dining table

16. The mint and white colour palette visually open up this tiny kitchen

Remodelação T4 . Bairro de Alvalade, Lisboa, atelier B-L atelier B-L Ausgefallene Küchen

17. Simple and compact design solutions save this kitchen space

18. Cabinets up to the ceilings, in varying sizes, creates a dynamic environment

Residência Goiânia/GO, Donakaza Donakaza Moderne Küchen

19. A super compact kitchen? This creative idea hides a small kitchenette in an attractive closet.

20. Pull-out cutting boards like these can be tucked away after use

21. Contrasting colours create a vibrant and modern atmosphere

22. Wood works like a dream with white, creating a harmonious and cosy atmosphere

23. The all-white colour palette and minimalist cabinetry makes the kitchen appear more spacious than it actually is

Devies Cook Company , Txell Alarcon Txell Alarcon Moderne Küchen Beleuchtung

24. Pops of colour and interesting design elements make this miniature kitchen stand out

25. A wall-mounted dining table in the kitchen can double up as a working bench and saves a ton of space

26. Every inch of space is utilised here, including the area above the refrigerator

27. Multifunctional spaces and clever storage ideas are indispensable for small kitchens

homify Moderne Küchen

28. Avoid visual clutter by opting for modern cabinet fronts that stick to clean lines

Cozinha, DecaZa Design DecaZa Design Moderne Küchen MDF

29. Sleek cabinets and clever lighting do the trick here

homify Moderne Küchen

30. The narrow strip of lighting on the ceiling visually elongates the space while doing away with the need for hanging lamps

31. Bright colours and patterned walls add drama and flair to this small kitchen

Projeto R9, Estúdio 12b Estúdio 12b Moderne Küchen

32. For a rustic style, stick to neutral colours and lots of natural materials

33. Hanging cabinets with glass doors look less bulky than conventional storage cabinets

34. If your kitchen is long, emphasise the depth to optimise space and ensure a feeling of spaciousness

35. A wall-mounted dining table doubles up as a working bench

36. Plenty of storage, kitchen appliances, a breakfast bar – who says a tiny kitchen can't have it all?

37. Bricks walls add an industrial touch and draw your gaze toward it

38. A breakfast bar doubles up as a pony wall separating the kitchen from the living room

Residência Goiânia/GO, Donakaza Donakaza Moderne Küchen

39. Wooden cabinets and DIY elements such as wooden crates impart a rustic feel to this cosy kitchen

Apartamento A+D, Estúdio 102 Estúdio 102 Moderne Küchen

40. Patterned floors draw your eyes length-wise and make the kitchen appear longer

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