There’s a real cozy and inviting charm to compact kitchens that you just can’t recreate in a larger space. And while some people think a smaller scheme prioritizes function over style, designers have proved time and time again that this just isn’t the case.
In fact, small kitchen ideas can still pack plenty of storage and usable surface space while feeling luxurious and fashion-forward – you simply need to be a little bit smarter about how you approach the design. And I’ve found the best examples from some of our beautiful house tours that truly nail that brief.
Pairing tiny proportions with clever kitchen storage solutions and elevated design details, these three clever designs prove that the smallest footprint can maximize functionality and beauty in one tiny but aesthetic package. We should all be taking notes.
The cabinets have been painted in Stuart Gold by Benjamin Moore for a bold burst of color, while the checkerboard backsplash was chosen to add a touch of whimsy.
(Image credit: Cynthia Ferguson Designs/Lauren Miller)
The small proportions of this kitchen, which formed part of a full Toronto condo remodel, limited the layout opportunities, but that didn’t stop interior designer Cynthia Ferguson from making the most of the space. The width of 11′ had to remain exactly as it was, so it was a case of making it more functional.
‘The refrigerator is a great anchor, so we left it on the far left of the long cabinet run, and panelled it for a more cohesive aesthetic. The sink needed to remain where it was, as did the dishwasher. My clients had just purchased it, so we let it remain unpanelled to save some of the budget,’ she explains.
‘The stove was in perfect working order, so it also remained, but we pulled it away from the wall, as previously it was tight against the corner, and my clients had to stand a cutting board up against the wall so they didn’t burn the wall! We added a little counter to the right of the stove for safety,’ she adds.
From there, storage and surface space became the real priority, maximizing usable space without creating a kitchen that felt crowded and imposing. The key? Smart storage solutions that were practical for day-to-day use, yet still allowed the design to feel considered and curated. And the process began before the renovation did.
The kitchen island in this kitchen might be small, but its function is mighty. It has been painted the same color as the cabinetry for visual cohesion.
(Image credit: Cynthia Ferguson Designs/Lauren Miller)
‘This kitchen was all about editing before we started the reno, and really looking at what was used daily. Real estate is at a premium in this tiny space, so each cupboard needed to have essentials only,’ Cynthia explains. Once the edit was complete, she could start really focusing on smart storage that fit the things that needed to be stored in it.
‘Drawers needed to be deep enough to stack pots and pans, and cupboards needed to be deep enough to fit plates. The coffee station was maxed out in terms of storage with the addition of a shelf inside and a bank of additional drawers underneath. Everything needed to do double duty, and some tough decisions were made when we edited!’
‘I left the counter on the short run of the cabinetry clean, so there was more prep space for my clients who love to cook. It also allowed for large drawers for cutlery, pots, and pans. The coffee station was a must-have, and the tall cabinet with pocket doors is another balanced anchor to echo the refrigerator. All the upper cabinets are touch latch cabinets to be as clean as possible and not busy the kitchen,’ Cynthia says.
But the portable kitchen island is the real star of the show, featuring a buffet counter, storage space, and prep counter, similar to this portable island from Wayfair. ‘The addition of an island on lockable wheels makes all the difference in this new kitchen! It has open storage for visual appeal on one side, and the garbage and recycling pull out on the other side, which my clients didn’t previously have! When they entertain, it is a great surface to use as a buffet, and they can always roll it out of the way for parties!’
