The kitchen is the heart of the home, but sometimes that heart isn’t as big as we’d like. Some kitchens, due to space constraints, can feel cramped and uncomfortable. This often discourages homeowners from fully enjoying this essential space. Fortunately, even the tiniest kitchens can feel bigger with a few strategic modifications.
At A2Z Builders, we’re experts in kitchen design, so we know a thing or two about making a kitchen space feel bigger than it is. Keep reading to discover our design tips and tricks that make a small kitchen look and feel larger!
Why Light Colors Can Be Your Kitchen’s Best Friend
Color is one of the most effective tools in creating the illusion of space. Light colors, such as whites, soft grays, or pastel tones, have a magical way of making a room feel larger and more inviting. This happens because lighter shades reflect light rather than absorb it, creating a feeling of openness.
Consider painting your walls and cabinets in a neutral, light tone. If you want to add some character without overwhelming the space, use accent colors sparingly. Using monochromatic color schemes can also work wonders. Look for shades of the same color for walls, cabinetry, and counters to create a seamless, spacious look.
The Importance of Natural Light
Natural light holds the secret to making a small kitchen feel open and airy. A well-lit space instantly feels larger, and natural light does more than brighten a kitchen; it gives it life. If you’re fortunate enough to have a window in your kitchen, keep it unobstructed. Avoid bulky curtains or blinds that block sunlight.
For kitchens that lack enough windows, consider alternatives like a skylight if structural changes are an option. You can also use light tubes, which channel natural light from your roof into darker areas of your home. Reflecting natural light with strategically placed mirrors in adjoining areas can also help redirect brightness into your kitchen.
Amplify the Space With Reflective Surfaces
When it comes to creating the illusion of a bigger kitchen, reflective surfaces are your secret weapon. High-gloss finishes on cabinets, backsplashes, or even appliances will bounce light around the room, making the space feel larger. This also makes your kitchen feel brighter and more welcoming as it enhances natural light and the lighter colors of the design.
Similarly, installing a mirror as a backsplash is a creative, eye-catching trick to open up your kitchen. The reflective surface tricks the eye into perceiving a more expansive area. Polished countertops, stainless steel appliances, and glossy tiles can also contribute to this visually enlarging effect.
Sleek and Compact Furniture for a Streamlined Look
Furniture can either elevate your small kitchen’s potential or become its greatest adversary. Clunky, oversized pieces that dominate the room are a no-go. Instead, choose sleek, slim furniture that takes up minimal space while still serving its function.
For example, a narrow breakfast bar can double as both a food prep space and a dining area. Opt for stools that tuck neatly underneath when not in use to clear up floor space. Multipurpose furniture, such as folding chairs or extendable tables, is another excellent solution for maximizing functionality without overcrowding your kitchen.
Open Shelving for Spacious Charm
Another design tip and trick to make a small kitchen look larger is to swap out closed cabinetry for open shelving. Closed cabinets feel bulky and take up a lot of space, making a tiny kitchen feel even smaller. Open shelving, on the other hand, adds an open, airy feel to your space. Consider replacing upper cabinets with floating shelves where you can display organized dishware and decorative items.
This approach does come with a caveat, though. Open shelves require neatness and organization to maintain a clean look. If clutter is an issue, this might not be the best solution for your kitchen. Alternatively, you can blend open shelves with traditional cabinets for the best of both worlds.
Why Glass-Front Cabinets Work Wonders
If open shelving isn’t an option for you, or you want to blend open shelving with cabinetry, there’s a way to adjust your cabinets so they feel more open: glass doors. Glass-front cabinetry creates depth, tricking the eye into thinking the kitchen extends further than it does. This simple change pairs a sense of openness with the practicality of enclosed storage.
Choose transparent or frosted glass, depending on how much you want to showcase your kitchenware. Pair the look with well-organized interiors to maintain an inviting aesthetic.
Brighten the Space With Under-Cabinet Lighting
Thoughtful lighting design doesn’t just set the mood; it plays a functional role in making a small kitchen appear larger. If you’re sticking with cabinetry in your kitchen, adding lighting underneath them is an excellent idea. Installing under-cabinet lighting is an easy and effective way to illuminate counter spaces and banish shadows that might otherwise shrink the area.
LED strips or puck lights under cabinets are discreet options that provide a bright and even glow. By ensuring every corner and surface is well-lit, you’ll create a kitchen that feels warm and spacious, even at night.
Streamline With Integrated Appliances
Traditional, bulky appliances can quickly dominate small kitchens, leaving little room for anything else. Compact or integrated appliances are a game-changer. Look for slimmer fridges, dishwashers, and even ovens that free up valuable square footage.
When possible, choose built-in models that integrate seamlessly with your cabinetry for a clean and cohesive appearance. Some companies even offer appliances for smaller spaces without compromising on functionality or style.
Declutter Countertops for Spacious Surfaces
Cluttered countertops are the bane of small kitchens everywhere. Unfortunately, keeping countertops overloaded with gadgets and utensils only emphasizes the lack of space. Embrace a refined, minimalist approach when it comes to your countertop surfaces.
Keep only your most-used items, such as a coffee maker or a toaster, within arm’s reach. For less frequently used appliances, consider storing them away in cupboards or a pantry. Clear countertops create the illusion of more space and improve overall functionality.
Take Storage Vertical
If your kitchen doesn’t have much floor space, the best alternative is to look up. Vertical storage options are perfect for small kitchens, allowing you to make the most of your walls. Install tall cabinets or shelving units to capitalize on every available inch of space.
Use these high shelves for items you don’t need to access every day, like seasonal kitchenware or extra pantry supplies. You could use hooks or magnetic strips to hang utensils, pots, or pans on walls to combine style and practicality. This frees up space while keeping your tools within easy reach.
Transform Your Small Kitchen Today
Living with a small kitchen doesn’t mean you have to compromise on functionality or style. By incorporating these tips, you can enjoy a space that feels open, organized, and uniquely yours.
If your kitchen is so small that you want to expand it with a remodel, we can help with that! For kitchen remodeling in Denver, A2Z Builders is the place to go with our personalized service and years of experience building and remodeling kitchens. View some of our past projects and contact our staff for a kitchen remodel consultation today.