Effective Design Solutions for Maximising Space in ‘Small’ Kitchens.
In Hawkes Bay, New Zealand, many homeowners face the challenge of making the most out of their small kitchen spaces.
Whether you're living in a charming bungalow, a compact cottage, or a modern apartment, finding ways to maximise your kitchen space is essential for creating a functional and comfortable home.
From smart storage solutions to clever use of colours, this blog will address the common issue of "my kitchen is too small" and provide effective strategies to help you make the most of your space.
Your Space is Bigger Than You Think - It's Just Not Well Designed
Efficient Layouts
Often, the issue with small kitchens isn’t the size but the layout. An efficient design can make a significant difference in how spacious and functional your kitchen feels.
Work Triangle: Ensure your kitchen follows the work triangle principle, with the sink, stove, and refrigerator forming a triangle. This layout maximises efficiency and minimises unnecessary movement.
Open Shelving: Replace upper cabinets with open shelving to create a more open feel. This not only makes the kitchen appear larger but also provides easy access to your most-used items.
Compact Appliances: Opt for smaller, more compact appliances that take up less space without sacrificing functionality. Consider built-in appliances that blend seamlessly with your cabinetry.
Decluttering and Organising
A well-organised kitchen can feel significantly larger and more functional. Decluttering and organising your space can make a world of difference.
Minimalism: Adopt a minimalist approach by keeping only the essentials in your kitchen. Store less frequently used items in other areas of your home to free up kitchen space.
Drawer Organisers: Use drawer organisers to keep utensils, cutlery, and other small items neatly arranged. This prevents clutter and makes everything easier to find.
Pantry Solutions: If you have a pantry, make sure it is well-organised with clear containers and labels. This maximises space and ensures you can see everything at a glance.
Multi-Functional Zones
Creating multi-functional zones within your kitchen can enhance its usability and make it feel larger.
Dining and Prep Areas: Combine your dining and prep areas by using a kitchen island or a bar-height table. This provides additional workspace and a place to eat without taking up extra space.
Homework or Office Nook: If you have children or work from home, consider incorporating a small homework or office nook into your kitchen. A pull-out desk or a dedicated corner can serve multiple purposes.
Entertainment Area: Create a small entertainment area with a TV or a music system. This makes your kitchen a more inviting space for family and friends, making the most of every square inch.
Smart Storage Solutions - Making Every Inch Count
Custom Cabinets and Shelving
One of the most effective ways to maximise space in a small kitchen is to incorporate custom storage solutions. These options are designed to fit seamlessly into your kitchen, utilising every available inch.
Pull-Out Shelves: These are excellent for deep cabinets, allowing you to access items at the back without having to reach in awkwardly. They make use of vertical space efficiently and keep your kitchen organised.
Corner Units: Corner cabinets often become black holes where items get lost. Install corner units with rotating shelves or pull-out drawers to make these spaces more functional.
Overhead Cabinets: Use the space above your cabinets to store items you don’t use every day. This keeps your countertops clear and provides additional storage without encroaching on your work area.
Multi-Functional Furniture
Investing in multi-functional furniture is another excellent way to maximise space. Pieces that serve multiple purposes help to reduce clutter and make your kitchen more versatile.
Island with Storage: A kitchen island can serve as a prep space, dining area, and storage unit all in one. Choose an island with built-in shelves or drawers to store cookware, utensils, and other kitchen essentials.
Foldable Tables: A foldable table can be a game-changer in a small kitchen. It can be expanded when you need more surface area and folded away when not in use.
Stools with Storage: Opt for stools with built-in storage to keep kitchen linens, small appliances, or pantry items. They provide seating and extra storage in one compact piece of furniture.
Vertical Storage
Utilising vertical space is crucial in small kitchens. By thinking upwards, you can create additional storage without encroaching on your workspace.
Wall-Mounted Shelves: Installing shelves on your walls keeps items off the counters and makes use of otherwise empty space. In the kitchen, wall-mounted shelves can hold spices, utensils, or cookbooks.
Hanging Racks: Use hanging racks for pots, pans, and utensils. This keeps them within easy reach and frees up cabinet space for other items.
Magnetic Strips: Magnetic strips can hold knives, metal utensils, and even spice jars. They are a great way to keep your essentials organised and easily accessible.
We design functional, thoughtful,
and beautiful homes, fit for real life.
We design functional, thoughtful, and beautiful homes, fit for real life.
At FBD Interiors, our main focus is creating spaces that are both elevated and realistic for your lifestyle. And we walk through every step of the process right alongside you - whether it’s a room refresh, a new kitchen, or a full home makeover/build.
Using the Right Colours - Brighten and Lighten or Embrace Moody Tones
Light and Bright
Using light colours can make a small kitchen feel larger and more open. These shades reflect light, enhancing the sense of space and airiness.
White and Neutrals: White, beige, and soft grey are classic choices for small kitchens. They create a clean, bright atmosphere and can be easily paired with various accents and decor.
Pastels: Soft pastels like light blue, mint green, or blush pink can add a touch of colour without overwhelming the space. They keep the kitchen feeling light and cheerful.
Glossy Finishes: Glossy surfaces reflect light, making the room feel larger. Consider glossy tiles, cabinets, or countertops to enhance the brightness of your kitchen.
Embrace the Dark Side
While light colours are great for making a space feel bigger, darker hues can add depth and a cosy atmosphere to your kitchen. The key is to balance these tones to avoid making the space feel cramped.
Deep Blues and Greens: Dark shades like navy blue or forest green can add a sophisticated touch to your kitchen. Pair them with lighter accents and ample lighting to prevent the space from feeling too enclosed.
Charcoal and Black: For a bold, modern look, consider using charcoal or black. These colours can create a striking contrast and work well in kitchens with plenty of natural light.
Metallic Accents: Incorporate metallic accents like brass, copper, or stainless steel to add a touch of glamour and break up the darker tones.
In Hawkes Bay, New Zealand, small kitchens can be transformed into functional and stylish spaces with the right design solutions.
By incorporating smart storage, using appropriate colours, and optimising your layout, you can maximise your kitchen's potential.
Remember, even the smallest spaces can be made to feel spacious and inviting with thoughtful design and planning. With these strategies, your kitchen will not only look great but also serve as a highly functional heart of your home.