Small Kitchen Design and Remodeling Ideas

A small kitchen isn't always a liability. Sometimes, a big kitchen can be a problem, especially if it doesn't fit into your family's lifestyle. For some of us, a smaller, well-designed kitchen can be the perfect solution and offers some surprising advantages. With good design choices, even a small space can look and feel larger. Just because you have a smaller space doesn't mean you have to skimp on style... or functionality.

In this post, we'll give you some practical ideas to maximize your kitchen and create an aesthetically beautiful small space with a big feel and functionality!

Some Benefits of a Small Kitchen Design

When well-designed, a small kitchen can offer some surprising benefits. Some homeowners and designers are reducing the size of a large kitchen in favor of a smaller, more manageable space. Here are just a few reasons that small is beautiful!

Small Kitchens Save Space for Other Uses

Sometimes, a small kitchen is just right. Shrinking your kitchen during remodeling can provide space that can be used for other functions like a larger living room, a dedicated office, or even another bedroom.

Smaller Kitchens Cost Less

The kitchen is the most expensive room to remodel. Creating a small kitchen design reduces expenses for materials like countertops, backsplash tile, cabinets, and appliances, lowering the project cost while still providing the necessary functionality.

Small Kitchens are Ergonomically Better

In a small kitchen, the work triangle (fridge, stove, and sink) is practically built-in. This makes for an efficient workspace for meal prep and cleanup. A larger kitchen can be more of a challenge to establish a properly working kitchen triangle.

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These are just some benefits you'll enjoy with a small kitchen. Now, we will look at ways to make your small kitchen look and feel much larger!

Seven Small Kitchen Design Tips

These small kitchen design tips can help you to create functionality and style even in a compact space.

1. Lighten Up!

One of the best ways to give a small space the impression of being larger is through paint. Light colors can add the feeling of space. A light, neutral paint color will reflect more natural light into the room. If you still want some dark color for contrast or to make a statement, try adding it in limited areas as an accent. For example, consider a backsplash with darker tiles or try using a darker-colored countertop.

2. Paint Your Cabinets

Dark wood cabinets were a trendy look in the past. However, dark wood cabinetry in a smaller kitchen absorbs light and makes your space feel claustrophobic. You can completely change the feel of your kitchen by simply painting your dark cabinets a lighter, more neutral color. If your cabinetry is stained or varnished, it may take additional prep work, but painting them will transform your kitchen!

3. Boost the Natural Light If You Can

Natural light is one of the best ways to make your home feel larger, brighter, and more open. Even if your kitchen has only one window, choosing light window treatments or using blinds can dress up your space without blocking the light. Using an opaque shade can let in light and maintain privacy. If you can, add a window, if not, consider under cabinet lighting. This can also make your space feel larger!

4. Consider Open Shelving

In a small kitchen, removing some or all of your upper cabinets might be a great option. Installing open shelving can open up the visual space around the room, making it feel and appear much larger than it is. Painting the shelving the same color as the walls can help them to visually disappear.

5. Invisible Hardware

It might seem like a small detail, but cabinet knobs and pulls can take up visual and physical space. A handleless kitchen features cabinets with a recessed lip or a touch latch. This creates a minimal, seamless look vital in a compact space that you want to feel more open.

6. Using A Bold Visual Pattern

Bringing a bold, colorful pattern into your space can help to give it a big personality. Introducing a dramatic pattern, like a bold backsplash tile, can be just the visual focal point needed to add style to your small kitchen. Don't overlook the floor. A patterned floor can give the illusion of a more expansive space.

7. Corner Storage

In a small kitchen, every inch counts, especially when it comes to storage. A corner countertop cabinet is an idea to consider. Extending the cabinet to the ceiling maximizes storage and makes the room feel bigger by drawing the eye up. Or consider a corner sink. This can leave extra space for another person to move freely in the room. Just remember, corner sinks tend to be smaller than standard ones. So if you use a lot of big dishes, this might not be the best option.

A small kitchen design can have all of the style and functionality of a much larger space with a little planning. These tips can help you maximize your space while keeping your kitchen a warm and welcoming space for meal preparation. As the trend toward smaller, more manageable kitchens grows, these tips can help you create a kitchen that works for your family and fits into your lifestyle!

If you're considering a kitchen remodeling project, let us show you the options available! If you live in the Greater Madison area, call the experts at Degnan Design-Build-Remodel. Call us at (608) 846-5963 and let us help you to take your home to the next level of comfort, design, and function! Ready to learn more? We're always happy to answer your questions.