6 essential design ideas that every small kitchen needs

Planning a kitchen takes a lot of time and thought. If you’re planning a small kitchen, you need to be extra clever in the planning process to make the space work twice as hard.
Today, I’m going to explain to you my 7 Interior Stylist’s essential design ideas that every small kitchen needs.
I’ll  give you the low-down so that you’ll have a small kitchen that packs a punch, look great and is practical too.

Tip 1 / Decent Shelving

When space is tight – you need to make the most of every corner. That is why shelving is so key. It acts as storage and, if done properly can make a great display space.
Open shelving is great for small kitchens as you don’t block out the light. You can cram way more on shelving as you can stack things up.
This unit below from Ikea is a perfect example  – it has drawers for spices and tea bags. Hooks for hanging up utensils and perforated shelving for your serving dishes.
I have bespoke shelving in my kitchen made in copper piping and scaffolding boards which you can see here.

Tip 3 / Great Task Lighting

In a small kitchen space, the brighter it is the bigger it will feel. You’ll need to install spot lights and under counter task lights to chop and cook under.
You can make a feature of lighting pendants. Pair up two over a food prep area or over a sink for a stylish look that also looks pretty dam cool. These lights are from on-line home accessory store, Nest.
I also have another lighting tip that you won’t want to miss out on – that I reveal in this post.

Tip 3/ Hidden Appliances

One style tip I always say stick to – is to hide away your appliances. Why? Because to make the space feel bigger you’ll want a run of units, not a few then appliances dotted in the middle.
In my own kitchen I had one tall larder made where my standing fridge freezer fits, and above there is room for a small cupboard. This makes the most of the space. My dishwasher and washing machine are both hidden behind door and it makes my kitchen look finished and neat, rather than cluttered up with white goods. See here.
If you can’t afford to get rid of your existing appliances, you could paint them the same colour as your kitchen units to blend them into your room.
I’m loving the black kitchen accessories in this shot from George Home.

Tip 4/ Designer Taps

In a small kitchen, you can afford to splash out on the details. And that includes a picking a designer tap. Look for a tap that has a great shape, sleek styling and minimal lines will stand out in a small kitchen.
Many have a few functions, like spray nozzles, rotating heads or instant hot water. Adding a multi-functional tap is the key to small kitchen planning.
When planning your kitchen makeover, don’t forget to budget for a great-looking tap. I always think the German’s have the best designed taps in the world – just look at this one by Grohe, which I found on SuperBath. It will totally up-scale your small kitchen.

5/ Nifty Breakfast Bar

You may not have room for a dining table in your kitchen. This is why at the start of kitchen planning process try to configure if you have space to put in a small breakfast bar.
Either by putting stools against your central island. Buying a small table and chairs. You can even get flip down breakfast bars that fold up against the wall when not in use.
A place to eat or a spot for guests to sit will come in really handy.

6/ Useful Homeware

When cupboard space is tight you may not have room for all your plates, mugs and bowls. And they often end up on the kitchen counter. If you are going to have them on show, then they might as well add something to your design.
These hand thrown style ones from Oliver Bonas not only look beautiful, they also add pretty colour (and character) to your small kitchen.
I’m also a big fan of kilner jars filled with pasta, rice or cous cous. They look great too, and having them on your work top does save cupboard too.

It doesn’t matter if you are planning a kitchen makeover or a complete renovation project, it’s helpful to consider all the element above. Adding just one or two will transform your space. Adding all 6 and you’ll be a winner at kitchen planning.
If you want to see some other small kitchen ideas, you have to see my own kitchen makeover which was featured on Apartmentherapy! Once your kitchen planning is underway, you’ll want to read my post that is full of 10 ‘Style Tips For Small Kitchens‘
Have a great week.
Maxine

** This was a collaborative post