Small Kitchen Design Ideas

Many homeowners dream of a spacious kitchen with more cupboard space than they know what to do with, but the reality is that a small kitchen can be just as rewarding. Here are some small kitchen design ideas that will give you the inspiration and creativity to build a functional small kitchen that you’ll love to use.

Table of Contents

• How to Maximise Your Space in a Small Kitchen
• How to Make a Small Space Appear Bigger
• Best Colours for Small Kitchens
• Islands in Small Kitchens
• Small Kitchen Storage Solutions
• Small Kitchen Furniture Ideas
• Small Kitchen Decor Ideas
• Small Kitchen Diner Ideas
• Ideas for a Small Kitchen Layout
• Small Kitchen Table Ideas
• Best Sink for a Small Kitchen
• Small Kitchen Extension Ideas

How to Maximise Your Space in a Small Kitchen

Maximising your space in a small kitchen is where things get a bit creative. With limited floor space, you don’t want to impede traffic and movement through the space, but there are ways you can get almost all the storage and counter space you desire. For example, you can:

• Take your cabinets up to ceiling height – Higher levels are perfect for display items or items that aren’t used every day. You can also add a funky ladder to make getting up there easier.
  
• Install open shelving – Upper cabinets can make your space feel crowded and boxed in, so why not go for open shelving? This is a beautiful statement item and it’s much more affordable too. Solid wood with iron or steel brackets adds beauty to your kitchen, great display and storage space, and they keep your kitchen feeling open and airy.
  
• Use clever cupboard systems – Today’s cupboards are much more than a shell with a few shelves inside. Clever storage systems can help you create functional pantry space, use every millimetre of your cupboard space, and look great too. Some ideas include corner cupboards that pull out, pot draws, tray cupboards, and more.
  
• Slimline appliances – Modern appliances are designed with apartment living in mind, so look for dishwashers and other appliances that are compact, quiet, and energy efficient. Slimline appliances may cost a little more, but in small kitchens, every centimetre counts.
  
• Simplify – Minimalism can be applied in every interior design, whether you love a rustic farmhouse look or a chic modern one. The idea is to only have exactly what you need – and to make sure that item is ideal for your space. This doesn’t just apply to decor, but practical items too. For example, instead of having a kettle and coffee maker, you can install a compact boiling water tap and use a French press you can pack away. This makes your kitchen design shine, rather than all your stuff in it.

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How to Make a Small Space Appear Bigger

It sounds like magic, but you can make a small space feel big through clever design. Some good ideas include:

• Vaulted ceilings – If you can’t go out, go up. Vaulted ceilings make your kitchen look bigger by using up wasted space under a pitched roof design. Not only does this give you a feeling of spaciousness, it also improves natural light into the kitchen, especially if you add skylights or larger windows and glazed doors, like in this Archdale Road project.
  
• Light or bright colours – White, off-white, and pale colours reflect light better, making your space feel bright and open. If you don’t love the all-white look, consider some bright and eye-catching tiles or cabinet colours that make the space pop. Often these would appear overwhelming in a big kitchen, so it’s perfect for smaller spaces, adding plenty of personality that enhances smaller spaces. You can see this concept at work in this Kew kitchen renovation.
  
• Add natural light and openings – If you can create a big window, skylights, or folding doors into your garden, do it. It immediately makes your space feel much bigger and less boxed-in. It also adds natural décor and colour to your space, creating that classic indoor-outdoor living feel, just like in this East Dulwich kitchen renovation.
  
• Space-enhancing flooring – Choose the type of flooring carefully and install it the right way to create a little trick of the eye that works wonders. Darker floors create depth when they contrast with the cabinetry and placing boards or long tiles vertically will make a space feel longer while placing them horizontally will make it feel wider. Large tiles actually expand the space while small tiles make it feel busier and cramped. You can see how vertical, darker flooring enhances this Strawberry Hill kitchen design.

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Best Colours for Small Kitchens

Small kitchens put every surface on show. Cupboard doors sit close to the walls, worktops and splashback, so their colours need to get along. The right mix can make the room feel brighter or cosier without changing its size.

For a more spacious impression, start with lighter shades on the largest surfaces. Off-white walls and pale cabinet fronts reflect available light. Similar tones also reduce strong visual boundaries. In a narrow galley kitchen, keeping the tall units and nearby wall close in colour can stop that run of storage from dominating the view.

The best colours for small kitchens depend on the room, but these are useful starting points:

• Warm white and cream reflect light and work well with timber.
• Soft sage or olive green brings gentle colour. Try it on lower cabinets with pale walls above.
• Pale blue or grey-green feels fresh in a sunny kitchen, but may look colder in north-facing light.
• Blush, clay and muted terracotta add warmth. Try them on a splashback or painted wall.
• Navy or charcoal suits base cabinets or a single wall, balanced by light worktops and task lighting.

Choose a shade you enjoy living with. Kitchen colours should suit everyday use too. If you are unsure, start with the walls or a small section of cabinetry before committing to a whole new kitchen.

Read more about the best colours for small kitchens.

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Islands in Small Kitchens

Just because you have a small kitchen doesn’t mean that you can’t have a kitchen island. In fact, small kitchens benefit the most from kitchen islands because they add that much-needed extra storage and prep space. Here’s how to get the perfect fit.

• Slim kitchen islands – Slimline kitchen islands with clever storage solutions are the best option as they give the most practical use without getting in the way. Position it as a divider between an open plan kitchen and your dining or lounge space for the most benefit and add a prep bowl and boiling water tap to make it the perfect meal prep space. As with the cabinets and walls, these look best in light or bright colours and can be custom made to fit your space. Here’s a good example of a slim, custom kitchen island for a small kitchen.
  
• Mobile kitchen islands – Another good idea is a kitchen island you can roll out of the way when it’s not in use, making your small kitchen more versatile. These wheeled islands are useful prep stations and storage solutions and fit easily into a laundry room or against the wall when you want to open up your space.
  
• Dining kitchen islands – This is a wonderful multipurpose island that replaces the need for a dining table or breakfast bar. The cupboards below add useful storage and when it comes to mealtimes you can all gather around it on stylish bar stools. We love the idea of making this a real statement piece in high-quality materials complimented by elegant lighting. You can see just how well this works in this Peckham kitchen design.

See more kitchen island ideas for small kitchens.

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Small Kitchen Storage Solutions

Storage is the biggest challenge when it comes to small kitchens. But with so many people living in trendy beautiful yet small homes, the storage solutions on the market are real lifesavers. Here are some great ideas to use in your space.

• Pot drawers – These are a game-changer in small kitchens, especially when it comes to storing pans, pots, and plates. Rather than traditional cupboards, you have wide, long drawers, making the best of your storage space while keeping everything easily accessible.
  
• Hanging pots and pans – Rather than using up precious storage space on bulky pots and pans, hang them flat against your walls under open shelving or above your kitchen island. This looks stunning, makes them easy to grab when you’re cooking, and saves so much space.
  
• Behind door storage – These are narrow baskets and shelves that hang against the back of your cupboard doors – and you’ll be surprised how much space is wasted back there. It’s a great option for cleaning supplies, pantry space, spice racks, and more.
  
• Magnetic knife strip – All the professional chefs have them and it’s no wonder because they are stylish and practical. A magnetic knife strip above your counter space means you don’t need a bulky knife block or use up drawer space, and your knives are easily at hand when you’re cooking too.

See more storage ideas for small kitchens.

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Small Kitchen Furniture Ideas

When space is at a premium, selecting the right furniture is crucial to making a small kitchen feel functional and inviting. By incorporating these furniture ideas, even the smallest kitchens can be transformed into stylish, practical spaces with clever storage solutions and efficient layouts. Here’s a more detailed look at some key small kitchen furniture ideas:

• Extendable or Foldable Tables – A foldaway dining table or drop-leaf design allows for extra workspace when needed without taking up too much room. These solutions are perfect for kitchens that double as dining spaces.
  
• Slimline Cabinets and Open Shelving – Opt for sleek, handleless cabinetry that provides storage while maintaining a streamlined aesthetic. Open shelving is also a great option for displaying stylish dishware and keeping everyday essentials easily accessible without making the space feel cramped.
  
• Multipurpose Furniture – Consider dual-purpose pieces, such as a kitchen island that provides additional counter space while incorporating storage or even seating. Bench seats with built-in compartments offer a practical and space-saving alternative to traditional chairs.
  
• Stackable Stools and Chairs – Foldable or stackable seating solutions make it easy to adapt the kitchen layout for different needs. These can be tucked away when not in use, freeing up valuable floor space.
  
• Wall-Mounted or Floating Units – To maximise floor space, install floating shelves or wall-mounted cabinets. Magnetic knife strips, pegboards, and hanging racks are great alternatives for keeping utensils and cookware within reach while reducing clutter.

See more small kitchen furniture ideas.

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Small Kitchen Decor Ideas

Decor plays a crucial role in making a small kitchen feel open, stylish, and functional. Thoughtful design choices can create a welcoming atmosphere while optimising space. By incorporating these decor ideas, your small kitchen can feel modern, stylish, and well-balanced, maximising both function and aesthetics. Here are some top small kitchen decor ideas:

• Light Colour Palettes – Soft hues like white, cream, and pastel shades can help open up the space and reflect natural light, making the kitchen feel larger and brighter.
  
• Reflective and Glossy Surfaces – Glossy cabinetry, mirrored splashbacks, and glass panels help bounce light around the room, adding depth and a sense of openness.
  
• Compact Statement Lighting – Pendant lights, under-cabinet LEDs, or sleek wall-mounted fixtures provide ample illumination while enhancing the kitchen’s aesthetic appeal.
  
• Minimalist Design – Keeping the design simple and uncluttered with carefully curated decorative elements helps maintain a spacious, airy feel.
  
• Smart Storage Solutions – Decorative shelving, magnetic knife holders, and pegboards allow you to display stylish kitchenware while keeping the space practical.
  
• Texture and Contrast – Mixing materials like wood, metal, and stone can add warmth and character to the kitchen without overwhelming it.
  
• Greenery and Plants – Adding small potted herbs or hanging plants can introduce freshness and vibrancy without taking up valuable counter space.

See more decor ideas for small kitchens.

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Small Kitchen Diner Ideas

Maximising space in a small kitchen diner requires a combination of smart furniture choices and thoughtful design solutions. Here are some key ideas to create a functional and stylish kitchen-dining area:

• Breakfast Bars – A compact breakfast bar serves as both a dining area and additional workspace. Choose a slimline design that seamlessly integrates with your kitchen layout. If space allows, adding bar stools that tuck neatly underneath can enhance functionality without cluttering the area.
  
• Banquette Seating – Built-in seating along one or two walls maximises space while offering a cosy, stylish dining nook. Banquettes can also double as extra storage by incorporating lift-up seat compartments, keeping the kitchen organised and efficient.
  
• Round Tables – Opting for a round table instead of a rectangular one creates a more open feel, making it easier to move around in a compact kitchen. A pedestal-style base is ideal as it eliminates bulky legs, allowing chairs to be pushed in neatly.
  
• Wall-Mounted Drop-Leaf Tables – A fold-down table attached to the wall is a perfect space-saving solution. It provides an area for casual dining but can be folded away when not in use, freeing up valuable floor space.
  
• Multifunctional Furniture – Consider extendable tables, stackable chairs, and nesting tables that offer flexibility for different occasions. A rolling kitchen island with a drop-leaf section can serve as both a prep station and a dining surface.
  
• Smart Storage Solutions – Use benches with hidden storage, floating shelves for displaying crockery, and slim console tables that double as serving stations to keep the space tidy and practical.

See more small kitchen diner ideas.

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Ideas for a Small Kitchen Layout

Choosing the right kitchen layout is essential for making the most of a compact space. Each layout has unique advantages that can enhance functionality, storage, and aesthetics. By carefully selecting a layout that complements your kitchen’s size and shape, you can create a practical yet stylish cooking and dining space that enhances everyday life. 

• Galley Kitchen – A narrow, corridor-style layout with cabinets and appliances on either side. This design is highly efficient for cooking as everything is within easy reach. To enhance functionality, consider incorporating light-reflecting surfaces and open shelving to avoid a closed-in feel.
  
• L-shaped Kitchen – By utilising two adjoining walls, an L-shaped layout provides a spacious and open feel while maintaining an efficient cooking area. This layout is ideal for integrating a small dining space or breakfast bar. Maximising vertical storage and using integrated appliances can help save space.
  
• U-shaped kitchen – This layout makes use of three walls, forming an efficient work triangle that ensures easy movement between the sink, hob, and fridge. U-shaped kitchens provide plenty of counter space and storage, making them ideal for serious home cooks. Opting for a combination of open and closed storage helps prevent a boxed-in effect.
  
• One-Wall Kitchen – Ideal for open-plan living, this layout places all cabinets and appliances along a single wall. It is a simple, sleek solution that works well with minimalist designs. Adding floating shelves or a small mobile island can introduce additional storage and prep space.
  
• Island or Peninsula Layout – If space permits, a kitchen island or peninsula provides extra workspace, storage, and seating. A peninsula layout is particularly effective in small kitchens, offering an open connection to dining or living areas without taking up as much floor space as a freestanding island.

See more layout ideas for small kitchens.

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Small Kitchen Table Ideas

Finding the right table for a small kitchen is crucial for maintaining both space and functionality. Here are some of the best options to consider:

• Drop-Leaf Tables – These tables provide excellent flexibility, as their sides can be extended when needed and folded down when not in use. They are ideal for kitchens that need to accommodate occasional dining without permanently taking up space.
  
• Nesting Tables – Perfect for adaptability, nesting tables can be stacked together to save space and pulled apart when extra surfaces are required. This option is great for small kitchens where versatility is key.
  
• Wall-Mounted Tables – A space-saving solution for ultra-compact kitchens, fold-down or wall-mounted tables can be attached to the wall and collapsed when not in use, ensuring that every inch of space is used efficiently.
  
• Round Bistro Tables – A stylish yet practical choice, round tables take up less visual space and allow for better flow in a small kitchen. A pedestal-style base offers additional legroom, making seating more comfortable.
  
• Extendable Dining Tables – These tables offer the best of both worlds: a compact design for everyday use with the ability to expand when hosting guests. Many extendable tables now feature hidden storage compartments, adding even more practicality to small spaces.
  
• Glass or Light-Coloured Tables – Opting for a table with a glass or light-coloured finish can help make the kitchen appear more spacious and open by reflecting light and reducing visual weight.
  
• Built-In Tables – For a seamless look, consider a built-in table that doubles as extra countertop space. This option is particularly effective in open-plan kitchens where functionality is key.

See more table ideas for small kitchens.

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Best Sink for a Small Kitchen

The sink is a kitchen necessity, but you don’t want it to take up too much room. When choosing a kitchen sink for a small kitchen, we recommend the following.

• Undercounter-mounted sinks – These ensure the sink doesn’t visually dominate the space, and it means you don’t have the rim and drainage board taking up more precious counterspace.
  
• Single bowl sinks – We recommend that you look at a deeper, single sink rather than a double bowl sink. These can pack in a lot of dishes easily without taking up your entire counter. And because they are deeper, they use up often unusable undercounter sink space rather than surface counter space.
  
• Stylish sinks – Because you aren’t buying multiple sinks, you should try spending on something pretty special. After all, in a small kitchen, every element needs to be just perfect. A small butler’s sink with trendy brass or copper faucets will turn this workhorse into a stylish element for your space.

See more kitchen design ideas here.

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Small Kitchen Extension Ideas

If you are considering renovating to make your small kitchen a little larger, it’s good to keep in mind that just an extra metre here and there can make a world of difference to your space. One of the best options is to extend into your side return, which turns a largely unused space into a useful one. This side return extension in Tulse Hill shows just how impressive the impact of this extension can be. This beautiful Victorian terrace combines a side return extension with rear bifold doors to maximise usable space, creating an inviting, practical kitchen and dining space that floods out into the garden, making it look much bigger than it is.

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Make Every Inch of Your Small Kitchen Design Perfection with Plus Rooms

Plus Rooms is a full-service design and build company for all types of home extensions in the greater London area, including kitchen, and kitchen diner extensions. We specialise in making small kitchen designs that are unique, clever, and exceptionally practical, making your dream kitchen a reality. We’ll work with you through the entire process, from designing your extension and managing planning permission to building the project and ensuring that it is completed to your satisfaction. Please contact us to find out more about our home extensions, and to start the journey towards your dream home.

Read more: Kitchen Extension Ideas, House Extension Ideas, Kitchen Design Ideas, Kitchen Styles, Kitchen Colour Ideas, Building Regulations