9 design tricks to maximize a small kitchen space

Small condominiums and townhomes certainly have plenty of charm, but when it comes to roomier kitchen space, they can be lacking. When dealing with a small kitchen, the key is to get creative. From organization hacks to problem-solvers for space, many tricks can help you make the most of your limited storage. Here are simple solutions to maximize your kitchen space.

Use both sides of an island

Not only is an island a great place to include storage – add cabinets that open on both sides of the island – but it can also work triple-duty as a dinette table or a prep station. Avoid bulky stools (they can take up more space than they’re worth), and choose backless seats tucked under the counter so they’re out of the way when they’re not in use.

Or opt for an ‘open’ island

Instead of your cabinet-based island, try using an island cart. With its open sides, island carts will make the kitchen appear more relaxed while offering plenty of helpful storage you can access from all sides. Better yet, if the island is moveable, you can push it out of the way or even move it to another area of your home to serve as a drink or buffet cart.

Add interior cabinet organizers

These work in any kitchen scenario but are essential in a smaller kitchen. You want to squeeze in as much storage as possible in a compact space, so breaking up drawers into compartments and organizers allows you to store much more efficiently.

Add floating, open shelves

Open shelves are highly functional and make it easier to access dishes and glasses. They can also add significant visual appeal to your space, making the room appear larger and roomier. You can see into the kitchen without being boxed by sight lines or heavy cabinetry.

Don’t forget hanging storage

Every niche spot in your kitchen can be optimized. Consider adding a rail to your backsplash or the bottom of upper cabinets to give you a convenient place to hang your kitchen utensils, tools, mugs, cups or tea towels.

Optimize the top of your fridge

The top of the fridge is often the most underutilized space in a kitchen. Purchase storage bins to reduce the look of clutter and keep all your overstock goods in one place (paper towels, napkins, seasoning refills, canned goods and more). The bins will make your kitchen look tidy while also adding more storage.

Use light colours

The lighter the kitchen, the larger it can feel. Keep a soft palette on countertops, backsplashes, walls and millwork – the kitchen will feel more open. This can also translate to your pots, pans, linens and small appliances. They can lift the space by simply blending into the environment. If you can’t live without colour, play the rainbow with your dishware and glassware – that’s where you can have a creative licence.

Get rid of clutter

Countertops are a prime location for clutter, instantly making your space feel smaller. Get rid of all your mismatched dinnerware or plastic containers you no longer use, and tidy up your pots and pan collections, too. Anything you think clutters your countertop, get rid of it.

Hang a pegboard

Pegboards are multifunctional and give you space where you didn’t think you had. You can find many prefabricated pegboards online and use them to hang everything from measuring cups to your colanders, cookware and more.