Just like the bathroom, the kitchen is an essential space in every home. However, because it serves such specific functions, it can sometimes be the smallest room in the entire home. That’s why people with small kitchens look for ways to decorate them properly and make the most of the space they have.
If this sounds like you, you’ve come to the right place, because today at Culmia we want to give you a dozen tips for decorating small kitchens. Try them out in your home, and you’ll be amazed by the results. Guaranteed!
Tips for Decorating Small Kitchens
If there’s one “golden rule” for beautiful and effective small kitchen design, it’s minimalism. Always approach the space with the mindset that, in this case, less is more. Stick to only what’s necessary and functional— if you do, you’ll be well on your way.
That said, here are our tips:
Good lighting will make a room feel more spacious
Light can really work wonders in this regard. If you have a window, you’ll have a big advantage, because sunlight creates a sense of spaciousness. If not, make sure to use lamps, recessed lights, and wall sconces to bring light to every corner and prevent any areas from being in shadow or dimly lit. Above all, focus on the countertop area, because that’s the kitchen’s “work” zone and where you’ll most appreciate being able to see clearly.
The Importance of Color
Choose light, neutral tones. Colors like white, beige, or light blue are bright and help create a sense of spaciousness. So, if possible, use them to decorate your furniture, walls, and floors. And if you’re worried the result might be a bit cold, you can balance it out with wood finishes on your furniture, as they’ll add a touch of warmth.
Smart and Multifunctional Furniture
When decorating small kitchens, it’s perfectly fine to use multiple pieces of furniture, as long as they’re multifunctional and arranged thoughtfully. Opt for practicality; choose furniture that opens easily, is accessible, and is comfortable to use. This will help you store all your specific kitchen utensils and access them whenever you need them.
Use an island as the centerpiece
A great example of smart, functional furniture is what’s known as a kitchen island. It’s usually placed in the center of the kitchen, is accessible from all four sides, and can be used as a table, countertop, storage space for utensils, and more. In fact, you can install a sink, a cooktop, or a backsplash on it, depending on your needs.
If you decide to get a table, why not get a folding one?
A table can always come in handy as a surface or to turn your kitchen into a small dining area. But we’re talking about a piece of furniture that usually takes up quite a bit of space, which is a major drawback when decorating a small kitchen. So, to solve this problem, consider using a table that’s foldable, modular, or built-in. This way, you’ll make the most of the square meters you have available. Oh! And don’t forget to add a couple of stools instead of chairs—they’ll come in handy and take up hardly any space.
If you have an open kitchen, consider installing a counter
A counter will help you clearly define spaces while also opening up a world of possibilities. Just like with an island, you can use it as a table or for other purposes, such as storage, a cooking area, or a sink.
And if it’s a closed kitchen, use a sliding door
The difference between a hinged door and a sliding door is significant when it comes to saving space. Perhaps the architect who designed your home already considered this and chose the best option. If not, consider removing the traditional door and installing a solution that won’t take up even a single precious centimeter.
Use the walls to save space
Installing shelves or cabinets on the walls doesn’t have to mean cluttering up the room. Use these pieces of furniture to store your kitchen tools, but without creating chaos. This is especially true if you opt for shelves, since whatever you put on them will be on full display for everyone to see.
Don’t have more than you need
We’ll say it again: keep only the essentials in your kitchen. Don’t make the mistake of having more things than you need, because it will take up space and your kitchen will lose its functionality. Having fewer things will make your life much easier and give you more freedom to move around.
Make a decision about your refrigerator
The refrigerator is an essential appliance, but it can also be a bit of a nuisance. It’s large and bulky, and it doesn’t usually look very good either. So, if you have an open-concept kitchen, you might want to consider moving it to the dining room; and if your kitchen is closed off, a good option is to panel it so it doesn’t clash with the decor and is conveniently hidden.
Make order your ally
This tip makes perfect sense. The more organized you are, the easier it will be to find things, and the more spacious the room will feel. Avoid piling up plates, silverware, and other utensils haphazardly; designate a specific spot for each item, and don’t forget to clean everything up and put it away after use.
Use stainless steel appliances
Have you noticed that this material acts like a mirror and reflects light? So, if it’s used in your refrigerator, microwave, or dishwasher, it will help create that sense of spaciousness we’re all looking for.
What do you think of our tips for decorating small kitchens? Can you think of any other ideas? Go ahead and share them with us in the comments!
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