How to Make a Small Kitchen Look Bigger
A small kitchen can be functional and cozy , but it can also start to feel cramped if not designed with space-saving tricks in mind. Fortunately, there are several easy ways to make your small kitchen look bigger, more open, and more inviting—without a major renovation. With strategic design choices and a few clever upgrades, you can transform your kitchen into a bright, spacious area that feels much larger than it really is.
Here are our top tips on how to make a small kitchen look bigger.
1. Choose Light Colors
One of the simplest ways to visually expand a small kitchen is by using light, neutral colors. Whites, soft grays, light beige, or pastel tones on walls, cabinetry, and countertops can reflect light, making the space feel airy and open. A lighter palette helps prevent the kitchen from feeling closed-in or cluttered.
2. Opt for Open Shelving
Replacing upper cabinets with open shelving can open up the room and give it a more spacious feel. Open shelves provide an airy alternative to bulky cabinets, creating the illusion of depth. Plus, they allow you to showcase items like glassware and dishes, adding both style and functionality.
3. Install Glass Cabinet Doors
If you don’t want to go completely open with shelving, consider swapping solid cabinet doors for glass-front ones. Glass doors give a peek into the cabinets, drawing the eye beyond the surface and making the kitchen feel larger and more expansive. Just be sure to keep your cabinets organized, as the contents will be on display.
4. Maximize Vertical Space
Take advantage of vertical space by installing taller cabinets that reach the ceiling or adding wall-mounted storage solutions. Tall cabinetry not only provides extra storage but also draws the eye upward, making the room feel more spacious and balanced. It can also reduce countertop clutter, freeing up more space for food prep.
5. Incorporate Mirrors or Reflective Surfaces
Mirrors and reflective surfaces can work wonders in making a small kitchen feel bigger. A well placed mirror, glossy tiles for a backsplash, or shiny, reflective materials like stainless steel or polished countertops help bounce light around the room, creating the illusion of more space.
6. Use Minimalistic Cabinet Design
Streamlined, flat-panel cabinets with clean lines can make your kitchen feel larger by reducing visual clutter. Avoid ornate details or heavy molding, as these can make the space feel busy and cramped. Opting for a more minimalist design will keep the focus on the overall space rather than individual elements.
7. Go for Under-Cabinet Lighting
Good lighting is key to making any small space feel larger. Installing under-cabinet lighting not only brightens up your workspace but also eliminates dark, shadowy areas that can make the kitchen feel smaller. LED strips or puck lights are a great option for a soft, even glow that adds warmth and brightness.
8. Declutter and Organize
In any small space, clutter can quickly make it feel overwhelming and cramped. Keep your countertops and open spaces free of excess items, and invest in smart storage solutions like pull-out drawers, cabinet organizers, and wall-mounted racks to keep everything organized and out of sight.
9. Choose Slimline Appliances
When space is at a premium, opt for compact or built-in appliances that don’t take up more room than necessary. Slimline refrigerators, dishwashers, and stoves are designed to provide full functionality while fitting neatly into smaller kitchens.
Making a small kitchen look bigger is all about creating the illusion of space through smart design choices and careful organization. By incorporating light colors, maximizing vertical space, and choosing minimalistic elements, you can transform your kitchen into an open, inviting area that feels much larger than it is.
If you’re ready to make your kitchen feel more spacious, Kitchen Tune-Up is here to help with expert design services and personalized solutions to fit your space.