Whether you’re designing a new kitchen or simply want to refresh what you have, these helpful hints will make any compact space look bigger and work harder
FeatureLisa Hibberd
Big ideas for
We’re not all fortunate enough to have a spacious kitchen – but the good news is that with a little creative thinking and some clever design tricks, you can transform even the most bijou room into a kitchen that’s not only practical but super stylish too.
Any compact kitchen has its limitations of course, and with space at a premium you’ll have to get creative. You might not be able to have that enormous island unit you’ve always dreamed of, but you may be able to compromise with a mini breakfast bar area, ideal for those busy mornings.
If you’re designing a kitchen from scratch, make use of in-store design services, as they’re a great way to play around with different layouts and work out what’s possible. Although light-coloured cabinets may seem an obvious choice, you don’t need to rule out darker shades as they can work well, even in a smaller space. Just make sure that they’re carefully balanced with your choice of worksurface, splashback and wall colour.
If you’re in a rental or simply don’t have the budget to change the cabinets, there are still plenty of ways to give your current kitchen a facelift and improve how functional it is. If you’re lacking surface space, for example, consider a nifty trolley on wheels which can be moved around to wherever you need it. Successful storage is a must and, although keeping a busy kitchen clutter-free is often easier said than done, there are many solutions available for inside and outside of cupboards and drawers.
Thinking outside the box is key, as the secret to success is to make the most of the space you have. So, next time you feel envious of those sprawling kitchens on social media, step back and take a good look at your existing room and read on for our expert advice on how to transform it into a more flexible, hardworking space.
Keep it box fresh
There’s nothing like the freshness of pure white for a modern look that will stand the test of time. Add character by teaming with wood or wood-effect surfaces, and you’ll have a scheme that not only looks the part but will brighten up your small kitchen. We love how the combination of white and mint green provides the perfect backdrop for pops of pastel accents.
Dakota kitchen in White matt slab, from £983 for an eight unit kitchen, Wickes
Add warmth with wood
