Wrangling your tiny kitchen into a picture of efficiency can feel like a battle against countertop chaos and cabinet clutter. Whether you want your space to feel more open, better organized, or you're ready to revamp it with low-profile furniture and appliances, there are plenty of ways to work with what you’ve got—no need to knock down walls.
The team at Block Renovation is full of creative directors and problem solvers who are used to making the most of every square inch. We asked them for their POV on how to optimize the space in a small kitchen. Octavio Estrada, Block Renovation's Senior Architectural Designer, shared his own experiences.
Best Practices for a Small Kitchen
"The primary rule with a small kitchen is to avoid clutter and make the space as functional as possible," shares Estrada. "With smart storage solutions and thoughtful organization, you can ensure your countertops remain clear and the space doesn’t feel cramped."
"Ideally, every item should have a designated spot, tucked away in cabinets or drawers," he adds. When designing a new kitchen or remodel, opt for floor-to-ceiling cabinets and make use of every inch of space.
Open shelving is one way to keep essentials in reach while making the walls feel lighter. If you're short on cabinet options, floating shelves or magnetic shelves offer extra room for everyday items like spices, mugs, or a small herb garden.
Drawer dividers, a pull-out lazy Susan, and toe-kick drawers can also help organize those deep or awkward spaces under your kitchen cabinetry.
Lean Into Optical Illusions
We're not talking about mirrored walls.
"Light colors reflect light, making them an ideal choice for the walls and cabinets to make the space feel more open and airy. We recommend soft whites, light grays, or pastels," says Estrada. "Another option is to use the same color on the walls and cabinets to blur the boundaries in the room and make the space feel larger."
He adds, "Avoid dark colors, busy patterns, and poor lighting—all of which can make the space feel cramped."
Enhance your wall space. Framed artwork or a gallery wall can also help reflect light in an appealing way, especially in a small galley kitchen. Adding LED strips under open shelves or cabinets can brighten the area and help with kitchen organization.
Choose Budget-Friendly Ideas With Big Impact
There are a lot of ways to make impactful but affordable updates to your small kitchen.
- Paint the walls. White walls are always in.
- Paint the cabinets. Colorful kitchen cabinets are trending.
- Install simple cabinet hardware. Brushed nickel or matte black keeps things modern.
- Use vertical storage. Hanging baskets, pot racks, or a magnetic knife strip can free up space.
- Upgrade countertops. Quartz kitchen countertops are low-maintenance and good-looking.
- Add wire shelving. It's great for storage hacks in tight corners.
- Try a breakfast bar. A counter-height bar can double as prep space.
To Renovate or Not to Renovate?
Choosing to renovate your kitchen floor plan is a big decision. Talk to a designer about creative ways to make the most of your kitchen space. They might recommend removing kitchen cabinets or adding new upper cabinets; they might suggest white countertops and encourage you to remove window coverings to enhance the natural light.
"If you're discussing permanent changes, consider changing the design of your kitchen to a more efficient layout, such as a galley or L-shaped kitchen," recommends Estrada.
Some updates don’t require a full renovation:
- Swap bulky appliances for compact ones. In a white kitchen, try matching appliances for a cleaner look.
- Choose light wood or patterned floor tile to reflect more light.
- Install open shelving or a shelving unit to open up the wall.
- Add banquette seating. A corner banquette makes the most of tight spots.
- Replace your sink. Updating fixtures and finishes makes a bigger impact than most expect.
- Use a small kitchen island with built-in storage. Even a mobile cart can work.
- Reimagine the furniture layout with multi-use pieces that fit the scale of the room.
FAQ
What are some small-space hacks that really work in a tiny kitchen?
Try toe-kick drawers, corner shelves, and magnetic knife strips. These maximize space without adding bulk.
Is open shelving a good idea in a small kitchen?
Yes—open shelves keep the room light and give you quick access to everyday items. They work well above countertops or even around the sink.
Can pendant lighting help a kitchen feel larger?
Yes; pendant lights or pendant lighting placed strategically over a kitchen island or breakfast bar can create visual height and better illumination.
What’s a good layout for a small apartment kitchen?
A U-shaped kitchen works well if you want lots of cabinet storage without taking up too much room. Pair it with smart cabinet storage like pull-outs or spice racks.
What’s the benefit of using reclaimed wood in kitchen updates?
Reclaimed wood adds warmth and texture. It’s often used for open shelving, a floating shelf, or even as a custom countertop.
Should I consider custom cabinets for a small kitchen?
If your layout is tricky, custom cabinets might be worth the investment. They can be built around obstacles or incorporate clever features like a lazy Susan or junk drawer.
