Decorating a small kitchen can feel like a balancing act between maximising space and expressing your style. Yet, with the right design choices, even the most compact kitchens can be transformed into stylish and functional spaces. Plus Rooms, one of London’s leading design and build companies, specialises in kitchen extensions and offers a wealth of expertise in creating beautiful, spacious, and functional kitchens. In this article, we’ll explore clever decor ideas for small kitchens and how you can incorporate them into your home.
Use a Round Table
If your small kitchen also functions as a dining area, consider choosing a round table. Round tables take up less floor space while increasing seating and promote easier circulation, especially in tight quarters. They also allow for flexible seating arrangements, making them ideal for family dining or hosting guests.
If that won’t work for your kitchen design, another good idea is to make your kitchen island your dining space. It’s a great opportunity to really make your kitchen island shine, using marble, designer pendant lights, and beautiful seating. This is a great way to get your island doing multiple duties, as you can incorporate your stove, oven or prep sink, storage, or even a wine fridge.
See more table ideas for small kitchens here.
Choose Small-Scale Appliances
When space is at a premium, it’s essential to choose appliances that are appropriately scaled to the size of your kitchen. Compact appliances like slimline dishwashers, under-counter fridges, and built-in microwaves can free up valuable counter space while still offering all the functionality you need.
Use Colourful Chairs
Adding colourful chairs to your small kitchen can provide a vibrant contrast to a neutral palette. Choose chairs in bold colours or interesting textures to create a focal point in your dining area. This simple decor idea can instantly uplift the mood of your kitchen. You can even mix and match chairs for a wonderful, eclectic look.
Use the Space Above Cabinets
The space above cabinets often goes unused, but it can be a great place for decorative storage. Consider adding baskets or boxes to keep the area organised while also serving as a decor element. This space can also be used to display larger pieces of art or stylish kitchen accessories that don’t fit on countertops or shelves.
Alternatively, extend your cabinetry right up to the ceiling. This vertical line draws the eye upwards to make the kitchen feel much more spacious, and having clean lines and storage inside these cabinets keeps smaller kitchens clutter-free.
Use Hanging Storage
Hanging storage is a smart way to keep your kitchen organised and stylish. Wall-mounted racks for pots, pans, and utensils save counter space and can add visual interest to your kitchen. Consider installing hooks or pegboards to keep frequently used items within easy reach. Hanging storage not only maximises functionality but also gives your kitchen a modern, industrial feel.
Put in a Plate Rack
A classic plate rack adds both storage and charm to a small kitchen. It allows you to showcase your favourite dishes while freeing up cabinet space for other items. Plate racks can also be a practical solution in kitchens where wall-mounted cabinets may feel too heavy or overwhelming.
Create a Minimalist Kitchen Design
Keeping a small kitchen looking clutter-free is crucial, and a minimalist approach to decor can help achieve this. Use clean lines, simple colour palettes, and only essential accessories. Open shelving can be a great way to embrace minimalism while displaying a few curated items. Keep in mind that the key to minimalism is restraint, so be selective with what you choose to display.
Choose Complementary Lighting
Good lighting is essential in small kitchens to create a sense of space and warmth. Consider installing layered lighting, such as under-cabinet lights, pendant lights over the dining area, and recessed ceiling lights. This combination can make your kitchen look larger and more inviting.
Install a Peg Rail
A peg rail is an excellent way to add both storage and character to a small kitchen. It provides a convenient place to hang dish towels, utensils, or even pots and pans. Peg rails can be easily customised to fit your kitchen’s style and can be painted in a contrasting colour for a pop of interest.
Try Stacking Appliances
In small kitchens, stacking appliances can save a significant amount of space. For instance, stacking a washer and dryer in a corner or placing the microwave above the oven can free up valuable counter and floor space. Plus Rooms often incorporates smart layout solutions like these into their kitchen extension projects, ensuring that every square inch is optimised.
Be Bold and Mix Patterns
Patterns are not just for big kitchens. Mixing patterns in a small kitchen can be a fun and creative way to express your style. It also gives the space a bespoke and luxurious look when done right. Try combining different patterns on your backsplash, rugs, and textiles to create a lively and dynamic look. Just remember to keep a consistent colour palette to tie everything together.
Use Wall-Mounted Bins for Storage
Wall-mounted bins are a great way to add extra storage to a small kitchen without taking up counter space. They can be used to store anything from utensils to dry goods, and they offer a visually interesting alternative to traditional cabinets. Wall-mounted storage solutions can also help to keep everyday items organised and within easy reach.
Create Movement with Graphic Lines and Patterns
Introducing graphic lines and patterns into your kitchen’s decor can create a sense of movement and visual interest. For example, a geometric backsplash, patterned floor tiles, or herringbone timber flooring can add depth and character to your small kitchen. Just be careful not to overdo it; choose one or two focal points to avoid overwhelming the space.
Decorate Open Shelving
Open shelving can be both functional and decorative. Use your kitchen shelving to display your favourite dishes, glassware, art, photos, or cookbooks. Adding greenery, such as small potted plants, can also bring life and warmth to your kitchen, which you can see in this Leppock Road kitchen extension.
Add an Area Rug
An area rug can help define a space and add warmth to a small kitchen. Choose a rug with a durable, easy-to-clean material that complements your kitchen’s colour scheme. Rugs can be used to create a sense of separation between cooking and dining areas, adding cosiness and texture to your kitchen. Remember to go quite large with your rugs so they extend out from under the dining table, as small rugs can actually make the space feel smaller – and can be a tripping hazard!
Choose Unique Art Pieces
Don’t be afraid to add unique art pieces to your small kitchen. Artwork can add personality and style to the space, making it feel more like the rest of your home.
Large statement pieces are a great choice as they create visual impact without cluttering the room. Bold, oversized artwork draws the eye, making the kitchen feel more spacious and adding depth. It also simplifies the decor, reducing the need for multiple smaller items. Whether it’s a vibrant abstract painting or a serene landscape, a single large piece can serve as a striking focal point in your kitchen.
Cover Walls or Cabinets with Colour
If you’re looking to make a statement, consider adding colour to your kitchen walls. A bold accent wall can add depth and interest to a small kitchen – and despite what many people say, dark colours actually make the space feel bigger and more expansive. Whether you choose for a deep green, rich navy, or warm terracotta, or even black, a splash of colour can have a big impact on your kitchen’s decor and create a striking focal point.
Create More Space with a Kitchen Extension
One of the most impactful ways to transform a small kitchen is with a kitchen extension. By extending your kitchen, you can significantly increase the available space, allowing for more freedom in decor and layout. Plus Rooms specialises in bespoke kitchen extensions that blend seamlessly with your home’s existing architecture. From luxurious side-return extensions and rear kitchen extensions to wraparound extensions for full open-plan living, our experienced design and build team has completed numerous projects where clients have gained additional space and enhanced the overall flow of their homes.
See more small kitchen design ideas.
Plus Rooms – London’s Leading Design and Build Company
Decorating a small kitchen requires careful planning and thoughtful design choices. By maximising storage, choosing functional furniture, and incorporating stylish decor elements, you can create a space that feels larger and more inviting. However, for homeowners looking to expand their kitchen, using an experienced design and build company for a kitchen extension is often the best solution.
At Plus Rooms, we specialise in creating bespoke kitchen extensions that are designed to enhance your home’s functionality and style. With decades of experience and a reputation for excellence, we provide a service that is both personalised and highly professional. If you’re ready to transform your small kitchen, try out our kitchen extension cost calculator or contact us today to discuss your project!
