Feeling cramped in your kitchen?

Small kitchens can be a real headache, with nowhere to put your stuff and barely enough room to swing a spatula. 

But don’t worry, you’re not alone! 

A small kitchen can actually be a blank canvas for creativity.

Let me show you how you can transform that small space into a stylish and functional hub.

Modern & Simple Small Kitchen Ideas

Ready to work magic with your kitchen? Here are some ideas to supercharge your small space:

1. Use Open Shelving

Open shelving is like giving your kitchen a breath of fresh air. 

Imagine being able to grab your favorite mug without a kitchen-wide treasure hunt. 

Plus, it’s the perfect spot to show off your quirky collection of cookbooks or that adorable set of salt and pepper shakers.

To keep things looking neat and tidy, try color-coding your dishes or using matching jars for your dry goods. 

Trust me, your kitchen will thank you.

2. Use Compact Appliances

Let’s talk appliances.

In a small kitchen, every inch counts. 

That’s why downsizing your gear i.e. using compact appliances can make a huge difference. 

You want a kitchen where a slim dishwasher fits like a glove, or a two-burner stove leaves you plenty of counter space for chopping and prepping. 

And don’t forget about a compact fridge – it might surprise you how much you can fit in one!

To top it off, look for appliances that can do double duty.

A microwave that also crisps up your pizza?

Yes, please! 

These multitasking appliances will save you space without sacrificing function.

3. Opt for Light Color Palette for Your Kitchen Painting

Let’s give your kitchen some color magic!

Opt for light and airy shades like crisp white, soft gray, or a dreamy pastel. 

Those colors bounce light around your kitchen, making it feel bigger and brighter.

Think light cabinets, walls, and countertops to really open up the space.

Don’t worry about it feeling too plain – add some personality with a patterned backsplash or textured flooring.

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Just like a light color palette can make a small kitchen feel spacious, you can also use this trick to transform a tiny bedroom into a relaxing oasis. Check out my guide on small bedroom ideas for more inspiration.

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4. Install Pull Out Pantry

Another small kitchen idea is installing a pull-out pantry. 

These clever space-savers are like having a personal assistant for your kitchen. 

With a pull-out pantry, every item has its spotlight moment.

Plus, say goodbye to expired food lurking at the back!

5. Integrate Racks to Keep Utensils Organized

Let’s face it, utensils, spices, and the whole shebang can quickly turn your kitchen into a cluttered mess.

But built-in spice racks and utensil organizers are like tiny kitchen-savers. 

They’ll keep your favorite seasonings and cooking tools neatly tucked away.

And guess what?

You can even install a pull-out cutting board and knife block to maximize space and keep your sharpest tools safe.

6. Use Clutter Free Decor

Who says a small kitchen can’t be stylish? The secret is to keep it simple! 

A clutter-free zone is not only easier to clean but also creates a sense of calm. 

Picture sleek cabinets without those pesky handles, and just a few carefully chosen pieces to add personality. 

7. Hang Mirrored Backsplash for Illusion

Use a mirrored backsplash to create the illusion of more space. 

A mirrored backsplash reflects light, making the kitchen appear larger and brighter. 

Plus, it adds a touch of glam without being over the top. 

8. Add Slim Island for Extra Storage

A slim island or rolling cart can be your kitchen’s new best friend! 

You want to have that extra space to prep your favorite dishes without feeling like you’re tripping over pots and pans. 

A rolling cart is super handy too – wheel it wherever you need it, then tuck it away when you’re done.

9. Use Tall Cabinets to Keep Cookware Within Reach

Make the most of your kitchen’s vertical space!

Tall cabinets are like magic – they can hold tons of stuff you don’t use every day.

And hanging pots? That’s a game-changer. 

Not only does it look cool, but it also frees up precious cabinet space for your everyday essentials. 

This also helps you grab your favorite pan without rummaging through a crowded cupboard.

Use hooks or shelves to store utensils, cutting boards, and other kitchen tools on the walls, to maximize every inch of space.

10. Install Sliding Doors for More Streamlined Look

Sliding doors eliminate the need for swing space, which makes them ideal for small kitchens. 

They look sleek and modern, and you won’t have to worry about bumping into them. 

Choose doors with frosted glass or sleek finishes to enhance the aesthetic.

11. Add Under-Cabinet Lighting

For your kitchen?

Under-cabinet lighting is the way to go!  

They illuminate your workspace, and makes it easier to prepare meals and enhances the overall ambiance.

Under-cabinet also add a touch of modern glamor.

When it comes to this lighting, your best bet are LED strip lights or puck lights as they are energy-efficient options that can be easily installed and adjusted to create the perfect lighting effect.

12. Hide Your Appliances

Try hiding appliances like microwaves and dishwashers behind cabinet doors for a streamlined appearance. 

Or go all out and get integrated appliances – they’re like kitchen chameleons, blending seamlessly with cabinetry, maintaining a cohesive and uncluttered look. 

This approach is especially effective in small kitchens, where visual continuity can make the space feel larger and more organized.

13. Fix Glass Cabinet Doors for a Touch of Elegance

Need your small kitchen feel more glamorous?

Glass cabinet doors are your new best friend.

They let the light in and show off your prettiest dishes. 

Choose clear or frosted glass to suit your style, and keep the contents of the cabinets neatly arranged to maintain a tidy appearance.

14. Choose Multifunctional Furniture

Who says furniture can only do one thing? 

Get smart with furniture that pulls double duty, like a table that can transform into extra counter space. 

Multifunctional furniture is ideal for small kitchens as they maximize the utility of space.

Look for furniture with built-in storage to further enhance functionality.

15. Install Compact Sink

Believe it or not, even your sink can be a space-saver. 

Downsize to a compact model and watch your counter provide all the functionality you need while leaving more room for meal prep and other tasks. 

Plus, you can splurge on that fancy faucet you’ve been eyeing!

16. Try Wall-Mounted Table

A wall-mounted table is a space-saving solution that provides a convenient dining or work surface when needed and folds flat against the wall when not in use.

When it’s mealtime, a wall-mounted table is there for you. 

When it’s not, it disappears like a magician’s trick.

Look for designs that include built-in storage or shelves, for extra functionality and minimizing clutter.

17. Stick with Neutral Tones

Sometimes, less is more.

Embrace the calming power of neutral colors.

They’ll make your kitchen feel bigger, brighter, and totally serene.

These colors provide a versatile backdrop that complements various styles and allows you to easily change your decor over time. 

Incorporate different textures and materials, such as matte and glossy finishes or natural wood, to add depth and interest without overwhelming the space.

18. Experiment with Bold Accents

Go wild with color!

A vibrant backsplash or some funky accessories like bright dish towels, colorful cookware, or unique lighting fixtures can totally transform the space. 

Just remember, a little goes a long way.

These accents can be easily updated to refresh the look of your kitchen over time.

19. Install Hidden Storage

Incorporate hidden storage!

Toe-kick drawers and pull-out cutting boards are like discovering hidden treasure. 

Toe-kick drawers use the often-overlooked space beneath your cabinets, perfect for storing baking sheets, trays, or other flat items. 

Pull-out cutting boards provide additional prep space and can be neatly tucked away when not in use. 

Consider installing pull-out shelves or lazy Susans in your cabinets to make accessing items easier and more efficient.

20. Incorporate Seamless Countertops

Seamless countertops such as those made from solid surface materials like quartz or Corian,  are the key to achieving that sleek, modern look. 

They’re also super easy to clean – a total win-win!

This sleek, cohesive look not only makes the kitchen appear larger but also creates a sophisticated, high-end feel.

Conclusion

Tackling a small kitchen can feel like trying to fit an elephant into a shoebox, right?

But trust me, it’s totally doable! 

With a little creativity and these smart tips, you can transform your cramped cooking corner into a stylish and efficient space. 

From open shelving that doubles as decor to under-cabinet lighting that adds a touch of magic, there’s a solution for every small kitchen challenge.

Want to dive deeper?

I’ve got you covered.

Check out my other posts for more home inspiration, like tips on how to get those pesky molds off your walls!