11 Beautiful Design Tips for a Small Kitchen

Is your small kitchen starting to feel as cramped as it looks? It may be time for a revamp. Although you may think your options are limited due to space, there are a number of elements you can tweak and alter to create the kitchen of your dreams. 

Moreover, the choices you make don’t have to break the bank. Read on to learn our top helpful tips to make the most out of your space! 

1. Create a Space Plan

This should be your first step before you do anything else. Even with a small kitchen, a functional space plan is needed so that you know everything is easily accessible and within your reach. The goal is to maximize your functional space as much as possible. 

There are many kitchen layouts available. These include: 

• L-Shaped - One of the most popular layouts. 
• I-Shaped - This is also known as the single galley kitchen. It’s loved for its simplicity and minimal appearance. 
• U-Shaped - This is also called the C-shaped kitchen. It’s great for cooks that want everything in easy reach. 
• Galley kitchen - This is a flexible design that works for modern homes. 

To find out what layout is best for you, walk through the space and think about how you’d like it to flow. The goal is to have a kitchen that’s comfortable and easy to use for everyone. 

2. One Color Palette

If you introduce too many colors to a small space, it can feel chaotic, overwhelming, and crowded. Creating a consistent color palette of two or three colors will help the space appear larger.

For small kitchens, it’s recommended to use light colors like white, beige, tan, or light gray to brighten the space and make it appear larger. This can be paired with an accent color for a bold statement. 

You can also choose to go with the opposite route of using a bold color for the walls and a neutral color for countertops, cabinet fronts, and flooring.

To keep it simple, you can opt to use a completely white or neutral color to act as a blank canvas. Then, choose accessories that have a bright accent color you love. Not only is this a bold visual statement, but it becomes simpler to change the color when you get bored of it. 

3. Break Up Cabinetry

No, we don’t mean with a sledgehammer! Breaking up your kitchen cabinetry means not crowding a wall with too much cabinetry - this can quickly give a heavy appearance. Opt for open shelves or range hoods between cabinets and glass doors.

Open shelves also act as another decor element as well as a functional area. Choose plates and cups that have a neutral color palette, or bright accent colors that work with the color palette of the rest of your kitchen. 

You can also choose to include small plants, cookbooks, and figurines for a whimsical feel. Just remember not to go overboard - a crowded shelf will make the kitchen feel confining, even if it’s an open shelf. 

4. Select Lighting

Lighting is an important aspect of kitchens that can easily be passed over. Proper lighting is doubly important for a small kitchen. You want to ensure that your lighting is bright and even throughout the space. Shadows and dim lighting will contribute to the space feeling and looking small.

However, you can’t expect even, bright light from a single overhead fixture. Think of lighting in terms of layers.

• Task - This lighting illuminates workspaces such as pantry closets and food prep areas.
• Accent - This creates depth and dimension in your space. These can be track lights or recessed lights that are adjustable. 
• Decorative - Decorative lights simply add interest to a space and don’t function to illuminate a specific area. 

5. Functional Accessories

Since your space is limited, you can’t afford to clutter the area with accessories that don’t serve a function. Put anything away that isn’t used daily, such as blenders and mixers. Opt for beautiful accessories that are necessary, such as a vase to hold cooking utensils, a bowl to store fruit, and unique jars for treats. 

Here are some more ideas for functional accessories that can also add unique decor elements to your kitchen: 

• Salt and pepper shakers
• Oven mitts 
• Paper towel holder
• Oil and vinegar sets 
• Cake stands 

6. Make a Statement

Since your space is small, you want each element of your kitchen to make a statement. Don’t hesitate to create a theme for your cabinet hardware, window treatments, and decor. Utilize unique patterns and artwork that make an impact. 

Since the color of your kitchen is uniform, this will help tie in all your design elements for a unique and airy kitchen. 

Big Design for a Small Kitchen

As you can see, designing a small kitchen is all about creating a plan and sticking to it. With a uniform color palette, the willingness to eliminate some of the traditional cabinetry, and unique design elements, you can create a kitchen that’s one of a kind. Moreover, all of these tips will help your kitchen feel and look larger than it actually is. 

Ready to create the kitchen of your dreams? Northeast Factory Direct provides wholesale home and bar furniture at a low cost and high guarantee. Check out our ready to go cabinets and vanities for a quick, inexpensive way to update your kitchen!