How to Make a Small Kitchen Feel Spacious: Tips from Krystal Kitchens
If your kitchen is on the smaller side, you’re not alone. Many homeowners find themselves working with limited space in the heart of their home, but that doesn’t mean you have to compromise on style or functionality. At Krystal Kitchens, we’ve helped countless clients in Basingstoke and beyond transform their kitchens into stunning, space-maximising areas. If you’re wondering how to make your small kitchen feel larger, we’ve got some expert tips to help you make the most of every inch.
1. Choose Lighter Colours for a Bright, Airy Feel
When it comes to small spaces, light colours are your best friend. White, soft greys, and pastel tones can help open up the space, making it feel larger and more inviting. Opt for light-coloured cabinetry and wall paint, or incorporate reflective surfaces such as gloss finishes or mirrored backsplashes to bounce light around the room. If you prefer a pop of colour, try accents like soft blue or sage green to keep the space fresh without overwhelming it.
2. Go for Open Shelving or Minimalist Cabinets
Heavy, bulky cabinets can make a small kitchen feel cramped. Instead, consider open shelving or minimalist cabinetry. Floating shelves can provide an airy feel and give you the opportunity to display stylish dishes or decorative items. If you prefer closed storage, opt for sleek, handleless cabinets that blend seamlessly into the design, giving a clean, uncluttered look.
3. Use Multi-Functional Furniture
In a small kitchen, every piece of furniture needs to pull its weight. Multipurpose furniture—such as foldable tables, pull-out shelves, or integrated seating—can help save space while still offering functionality. For instance, a compact kitchen island with storage underneath can provide both additional worktop space and a place to store pots and pans.
4. Keep the Layout Open and Flowing
A cluttered layout can make your kitchen feel cramped and difficult to navigate. Opt for an open-plan layout or smart zoning, where you divide the kitchen into distinct functional areas without blocking the flow of traffic. Consider an L-shaped or U-shaped kitchen design for better use of corner space, or even a galley kitchen for a narrow space that feels streamlined and efficient.
5. Invest in Vertical Storage
Maximising your vertical space is key in a smaller kitchen. Wall-mounted storage and tall, slim cabinets can help free up floor space and keep essentials within easy reach. Hanging pots and pans or using a wall-mounted pegboard for utensils can also help to create additional storage without taking up valuable countertop space.
6. Incorporate Mirrors or Glass Elements
Reflective materials can work wonders to make a room feel more expansive. Consider adding a glass splashback or mirrored accents to your kitchen design. Glass-fronted cabinets can also help the space feel airier while allowing you to store items out of sight. The trick is to add just enough reflective material to open up the room without making it feel overly busy.
7. Use Light-Reflecting Flooring
If you’ve got dark, heavy flooring, it might be time to rethink your options. Opt for light-coloured tiles or wooden floors in light oak or beech tones to create the illusion of space. Large-format tiles can also reduce the number of grout lines and make the floor appear more expansive. Another tip is to keep the flooring consistent throughout the kitchen and even into adjacent rooms to create a sense of flow.
8. Keep It Clutter-Free
This one’s simple: less is more. The less clutter in your kitchen, the more spacious it will feel. Be mindful of countertop storage, and use clever organisers to keep items out of sight. Drawer organisers, pull-out baskets, and even hidden compartments can help you streamline your kitchen while keeping it functional.
9. Lighting is Key
Well-placed lighting can significantly improve the feeling of space. Ensure your kitchen is well-lit with a mix of task, ambient, and accent lighting. Under-cabinet lighting can help illuminate worktops and create a sense of depth. Pendant lights above an island or a dining area can also add interest while making the room feel more open.
10. Consider a Custom Kitchen Design
At Krystal Kitchens, we understand that no two kitchens are alike. That’s why we offer free kitchen design consultations to ensure we make the most of the space you have. Our expert designers in our Basingstoke showroom will work with you to create a personalised plan that maximises every inch of your kitchen, making it both practical and visually appealing.
Why Choose Krystal Kitchens?
With a large showroom in Basingstoke, Hampshire, we offer more than just stylish designs. We also have instore offers and flexible finance options to help you create your dream kitchen without the stress. Whether you’re looking for a complete overhaul or a few smart updates, our team is ready to guide you through every step of the process.
By incorporating these clever design strategies, you can turn your small kitchen into a space that feels both spacious and efficient. At Krystal Kitchens, we’re here to help you make your kitchen work for you, no matter its size. Visit us in-store or book your free design consultation today to start planning your perfect kitchen.
If your kitchen is on the smaller side, you’re not alone. Many homeowners find themselves working with limited space in the heart of their home, but that doesn’t mean you have to compromise on style or functionality. At Krystal Kitchens, we’ve helped countless clients in Basingstoke and beyond transform their kitchens into stunning, space-maximising areas. If you’re wondering how to make your small kitchen feel larger, we’ve got some expert tips to help you make the most of every inch.
1. Choose Lighter Colours for a Bright, Airy Feel
When it comes to small spaces, light colours are your best friend. White, soft greys, and pastel tones can help open up the space, making it feel larger and more inviting. Opt for light-coloured cabinetry and wall paint, or incorporate reflective surfaces such as gloss finishes or mirrored backsplashes to bounce light around the room. If you prefer a pop of colour, try accents like soft blue or sage green to keep the space fresh without overwhelming it.
2. Go for Open Shelving or Minimalist Cabinets
Heavy, bulky cabinets can make a small kitchen feel cramped. Instead, consider open shelving or minimalist cabinetry. Floating shelves can provide an airy feel and give you the opportunity to display stylish dishes or decorative items. If you prefer closed storage, opt for sleek, handleless cabinets that blend seamlessly into the design, giving a clean, uncluttered look.
3. Use Multi-Functional Furniture
In a small kitchen, every piece of furniture needs to pull its weight. Multipurpose furniture—such as foldable tables, pull-out shelves, or integrated seating—can help save space while still offering functionality. For instance, a compact kitchen island with storage underneath can provide both additional worktop space and a place to store pots and pans.
4. Keep the Layout Open and Flowing
A cluttered layout can make your kitchen feel cramped and difficult to navigate. Opt for an open-plan layout or smart zoning, where you divide the kitchen into distinct functional areas without blocking the flow of traffic. Consider an L-shaped or U-shaped kitchen design for better use of corner space, or even a galley kitchen for a narrow space that feels streamlined and efficient.
5. Invest in Vertical Storage
Maximising your vertical space is key in a smaller kitchen. Wall-mounted storage and tall, slim cabinets can help free up floor space and keep essentials within easy reach. Hanging pots and pans or using a wall-mounted pegboard for utensils can also help to create additional storage without taking up valuable countertop space.
6. Incorporate Mirrors or Glass Elements
Reflective materials can work wonders to make a room feel more expansive. Consider adding a glass splashback or mirrored accents to your kitchen design. Glass-fronted cabinets can also help the space feel airier while allowing you to store items out of sight. The trick is to add just enough reflective material to open up the room without making it feel overly busy.
7. Use Light-Reflecting Flooring
If you’ve got dark, heavy flooring, it might be time to rethink your options. Opt for light-coloured tiles or wooden floors in light oak or beech tones to create the illusion of space. Large-format tiles can also reduce the number of grout lines and make the floor appear more expansive. Another tip is to keep the flooring consistent throughout the kitchen and even into adjacent rooms to create a sense of flow.
8. Keep It Clutter-Free
This one’s simple: less is more. The less clutter in your kitchen, the more spacious it will feel. Be mindful of countertop storage, and use clever organisers to keep items out of sight. Drawer organisers, pull-out baskets, and even hidden compartments can help you streamline your kitchen while keeping it functional.
9. Lighting is Key
Well-placed lighting can significantly improve the feeling of space. Ensure your kitchen is well-lit with a mix of task, ambient, and accent lighting. Under-cabinet lighting can help illuminate worktops and create a sense of depth. Pendant lights above an island or a dining area can also add interest while making the room feel more open.
10. Consider a Custom Kitchen Design
At Krystal Kitchens, we understand that no two kitchens are alike. That’s why we offer free kitchen design consultations to ensure we make the most of the space you have. Our expert designers in our Basingstoke showroom will work with you to create a personalised plan that maximises every inch of your kitchen, making it both practical and visually appealing.
Why Choose Krystal Kitchens?
With a large showroom in Basingstoke, Hampshire, we offer more than just stylish designs. We also have instore offers and flexible finance options to help you create your dream kitchen without the stress. Whether you’re looking for a complete overhaul or a few smart updates, our team is ready to guide you through every step of the process.
By incorporating these clever design strategies, you can turn your small kitchen into a space that feels both spacious and efficient. At Krystal Kitchens, we’re here to help you make your kitchen work for you, no matter its size. Visit us in-store or book your free design consultation today to start planning your perfect kitchen.
