Who says small apartment kitchens can’t be smart? In this day and age, more and more people are inclined to live in small apartments. However, it does not mean that one has to compromise on style or functionality due to limited space. There are innovative solutions that can convert even the smallest of kitchens into a modernizing and space serving compact zone.
In this comprehensive guide, we explore 15 smart kitchen design ideas for small apartments, covering everything from storage solutions and clever space utilization to striking design statements and colorful personalization. Discover how simple changes can transform your small kitchen into a stylish and efficient space that reflects your personality.
1. Vertical Storage
Almost every kitchen can benefit from vertical storage. It is amazing how much and many different kinds of storage can be packed into a very tall, narrow, or shallow space. However, the very narrow pullout cabinets are the real stars of this vertical storage. The mix of cabinet doors creates a pleasing arrangement when closed.
2. Door or no Door?
An open kitchen is a smart option for small apartments. Without walls or doors, it provides an airy and open feeling in cramped areas. But, if you feel that a door is necessary, then opt for a fashionable pocket type of door. It helps to conveniently cover post-cooking chaos or simply serve as a style statement on its own.
3. Multifunctional Kitchen Island
Kitchen islands are one of the easiest ways to bring added functionality and style to your small kitchen. As long as you don’t eliminate essential walkways, small kitchen islands can significantly enhance the design and functionality of your cooking space.
Islands can increase counter space, storage space, and eating space, as well as offer a visual focal point for the small kitchen area. Serving a variety of functions, they can be designed in various ways, with some incorporating chairs or stools, sinks, drawers, or even dishwashers and microwaves. You can even have portable islands with wheels without the commitment to a permanent fixture to roll it to the side or into another room for convenience.
Even Instead of investing in a large island in a compact kitchen, you can try a smaller, decorative table or cart for extra storage and work space.
4. An Eat-in kitchen
A small kitchen likely means other small rooms in your humble abode. So if a dining room isn’t available in your floor plan, have your kitchen double as a dining space to maximize space and style in your small room. Between islands, banquettes, and breakfast nooks, there are tons of ways to work a combo of kitchen-dining room into your cooking space.
5. Open Concept
Even a small kitchen can seem larger with an open shelving concept contrast to the modern cabinetry. Bulky cabinets at eye level only make an already tight space seem smaller. You can go for all open shelves or the cabinet-open shelves combination. Open shelving breathes life into your kitchen. It gives everything a designated place without blocking the light and adding unnecessary shadows. It’ll clear off the counters and let you easily see your inventory. Display your favorite dishes or spice jars as part of your decor for a modern small apartment kitchen design.
6. Color Palette
Choosing the right color theme can transform your space from cramped to chic. For apartment kitchen inspo, consider that light, neutral colors create a sense of openness, while bold accents add depth and personality. The major design secret to making your kitchen look massive is committing to the preexisting color scheme in your home.
You can go for all white kitchen and accentuate the space with pops of colors, for example, in small shelves, hardware, island stools, pendant, etc. While white continues to rule as a popular choice, you don’t have to play it safe. You can choose other neutral colors, such as soft gray, beige, creamy white, muted green-gray etc. Not a fan of neutrals? Skip to soothing colors like sage or a gray-blue, or opt for finishes that add lustre like a high-gloss or satin. If you want vibrant colors, go for it. Take bold color risks for a high-impact result. Experiment with vibrant accent walls, colorful cabinets, or bold accessories to add personality and energy to your small kitchen.
Other unique designs regarding color can make your kitchen look unique. For example, Amplify the character in your small kitchen with the look of exposed brick, infuse color with tiles, incorporate patterns on your walls and floors to give your kitchen a refined look, apply colorful or patterned contact paper to cabinet doors, countertops, or even the refrigerator for a quick and affordable transformation etc.
7. Smart Lightning
Install a statement lighting piece that doubles as art. It can be placed in the center of the room or placed in a row above a work surface to act as task lighting. But cannot fit a ceiling light? Wall sconces can be a great alternative for task lighting or ambient lighting in small kitchens. Also, do not forget about under-cabinet lighting. Use an LED strip to illuminate the countertop.
8. An Appliance Garage
You might want to add an appliance garage within your cabinetry. An appliance garage is essentially a small cabinet or compartment designed to house frequently used kitchen appliances. Small appliances like mixers, toasters, and coffee makers can still be easily accessible, but you can then simply close the door to keep them out of sight when they’re not in use.
9. Compact & Hidden Appliances
Compact appliances are the supreme ruler in apartment kitchen ideas. Using smaller, more efficient appliances instead of full-size ones will not only save much-needed space but will also provide a sleek, minimalist look.
Camouflaging your fridge or dishwasher into your cabinetry will work to streamline the look and feel of your kitchen. That said, it keeps your space visually clean and airy while marrying functionality with fashion.
10. Plants
Indoor plants can help increase oxygen levels, remove toxins, purify the air, and give your space a refreshing look. Thus, houseplants can be great for creating a calming kitchen canopy. We know space in a kitchen is often tight, but even the smallest houseplant is perfect for worktops, corners, or shelves. You could even pop some plants in hanging pots to take advantage of your vertical space.
11. Kitchen Window Reimagined
Utilize window sills as additional storage space. Install narrow shelves to display herbs, spices, or small kitchen essentials. Not only does open shelving provide storage for dishes and glassware, it’s a great place for houseplants to thrive. Even shelves and cabinets can be installed under the window for storage.
12. Hanging Pots & Pans
Reclaim your cabinet space by hanging pots and pans. Putting the typically underutilized space to good use, pot racks free up cabinet space by storing pans and skillets out in the open and bring stylish organization to a kitchen. Use these pot rack ideas for practical storage that doubles as kitchen decor, mounted from the ceiling, under cabinetry, or against a wall. Attach metal hooks to hang pots, pans, pitchers, cutting boards and other cooking must-haves. This is the solution to stash your cookware for easy access decoratively.
13. Foldable Furniture
Versatile folding or pull-out fittings at the sides of kitchen islands or walls can extend your surface area. Opt for tables, counters, and chairs that tuck away effortlessly and won’t take up too much space. This technique will make the small kitchen more spacious when those pieces of furniture are not in need.
14. Mirrors
Mirrors are not only for bathrooms and bedrooms. They can also work wonders in a kitchen. They make the space feel bigger and brighter by the reflection of light. Mirrors as a backsplash, on cabinet doors, on the ceiling, above your sink, and on walls, the possibilities to play with perspective and maximize visual impact in compact space are endless.
15. Rugs or Runners
When there’s not much you can do to a compact space without making it feel even more cramped, add a rug. It’ll warm up the room and add pattern and color without overwhelming your kitchen. The right rug has so many purposes in a small kitchen: from comfort for bare feet while you cook or eat standing up, adding your personal style, or even hiding dated or faulty floors while you save for your dream small kitchen flooring.
16. Artistic Expressions
Explore art to its fullest potential. The fact that you have limited space should not deter you from expressing yourself artistically. Hang paintings, photographs, or even kitchen utensils arranged as art to create a unique and visually appealing space.
Imagine the kitchen as a canvas that can be marked with your choices. Do consider bold patterned tiles, colorful rugs, or even a painted wall to make a statement and infuse personality into your small kitchen space.
Use everyday items or tools for the kitchen as creative art pieces. Use hooks, pegboards, or magnetic strips to showcase utensils, creating an artful and practical display.
Give an upgrade to the idea of wall decorations by using beautifully designed dinner plates. Arrange them in a visually appealing pattern or use plate hangers to create a striking display that adds character and charm to your small kitchen.
