Make a small kitchen look bigger

When you're designing a kitchen, no matter how much space you have there are a few inclusions that you can't do without. But how and where you choose to position them, as well as what type of finishes you opt for, can play a big role in how roomy your kitchen feels. Get it right, and even if your kitchen is on the small side, you can easily give the impression of more space. Here are a few things to consider.

1. Choose your kitchen cabinetry wisely

Next to your appliances, you'll probably spend most of your kitchen budget on your cabinetry, so it pays to get it right. If your kitchen is on the small side, choose units that have legs, rather than those that sit directly on the floor. Being able to see more floor space makes the room look and feel bigger, and can also make the cabinetry seem smaller. At the very least, choose cabinets with recessed kickboards, rather than ones that sit flush with the cupboards. 

You'll also probably have to include wall-hung cabinetry. To avoid this looking overbearing in a small space, choose a cupboard design that's as simple as possible; opt for units that don't need handles, to create a streamlined, low-fuss effect; and avoid darker laminates and timber veneers, which can close a room in.

2. Include mirror finishes in your design

This is an old, effective trick for making a room seem bigger, so why not apply it in your kitchen? We're not suggesting mirrors everywhere - that's likely to look tacky – but maybe in one area, such as the splashback. It's usually a relatively large piece of wall so will reflect a decent slice of room back into your kitchen. 

3. Opt for integrated kitchen appliances

Making a small space seem larger means having as few visual interruptions as possible, and integrated appliances can help achieve that goal. Hiding them away behind doors that match the rest of your cabinetry, you can integrate everything from your fridge and dishwasher to your microwave.

4. Less clutter means more space

Clutter can make even a large kitchen seem smaller, so think about how you can design your room to minimise clutter when you're actually using it. You'll need loads of storage, an appliance cupboard and to steer clear of open shelves (unless you're incredibly disciplined, they can be a beacon for clutter).

5. Be clever with colour in the kitchen

As a general rule, bold colours will make an already-small space seem even smaller, while a neutral palette will open a room up. But if you do want to include some colour or dark timber finishes, use the darkest colours near the floor and neutral colours on the walls and towards the ceilings. It will make the room appear taller.

Talk with a kitchen designer in your area to discover how you can make the most out of a small kitchen design: