Small Kitchen Design: 12 Smart Storage Ideas That Make Space Feel Bigger

A well-planned small kitchen can work better than a large one. Here are 12 storage and design ideas that make every centimetre count.

Bright small kitchen with ceiling-high cabinets and open shelving – ARVEX Mobilya

A well-planned small kitchen beats a badly planned large one. Here are the 12 ideas that work best in ARVEX Mobilya projects.

Go vertical

  1. Take wall units up to the ceiling.
  2. Turn one tall unit into a pull-out larder.
  3. Use the splashback for rails and spice racks.

Smarter base units

  1. Prefer drawers to doors.
  2. Use corner mechanisms instead of losing the corner.
  3. Add plinth drawers for trays.
  4. Organise under the sink with a waste-sorting drawer.

Create a feeling of space

  1. Choose light colours; keep darker tones for base units.
  2. Go handleless or use slim handles.
  3. Add a glass or open-shelf unit.
  4. Install LED strips under wall units.
  5. Choose integrated and slim appliances.

Ergonomic rules

Worktop height usually 85–95 cm; about 55–65 cm between worktop and wall units; at least 90–100 cm between facing runs.

Plan your kitchen in our free 3D planner – it warns you about clashes with doors and windows and suggests fixes.

Frequently asked questions

What colour makes a small kitchen look bigger?

Light tones such as white, cream, light grey and champagne reflect light and make small kitchens feel more spacious.

Should wall cabinets go up to the ceiling?

Yes – they add storage and prevent dust collecting on top.