A little apartment with a kitchen may seem more like a closet than a chef’s dream come true. However, things don’t have to be that way.
You can turn your small room into a gorgeous and practical cooking haven with a few simple décor ideas. Better yet, you can be economical and still achieve the vibe of a contemporary kitchen.
Utilize everything that you have! To make the most of your flat space and rediscover your passion for your kitchen, check out these 35 small kitchen decoration ideas.
Things to Consider Before You Decorate
Just a moment, please. Make a little stop for planning before letting your inner designer loose in your kitchen. A little effort up front will save you a ton of trouble down the road (as well as a shattered elbow and shin).
Consider this: you wouldn’t blindly pick whatever looks nice if you knew you were going grocery shopping for a week’s worth of meals, would you? To make sure you acquire everything you need, you create a list.
It’s the same with kitchen décor. Despite its modest size, it is a workhorse. You need to assess what you’re “cooking up” in terms of style. This entails being aware of what must be stored first, such as your go-to spatulas, matching cups, and the enormous pot you save for special occasions. This is the reason.
Imagine falling in love with those stunning floating shelves only to find out later that they aren’t big enough to accommodate all of your pots and pans. Consider having a charming little bistro table directly in the center of your kitchen, obstructing the path between the stove and the refrigerator. Not exactly the best for enjoying food bliss!
How therefore can we prevent these decorating mishaps? Measurement is essential! Using a tape measure, measure the size of your kitchen, taking note of the counters, walls, and any existing appliances. In this manner, you can arrange furniture to maximize available space without feeling crowded. You want a kitchen that works, not a mosh pit, after all!
In relation to feeling claustrophobic, let us discuss traffic flow. You’re constantly slicing vegetables, looking for spices, and perhaps avoiding your roommate who needs to refill their water bottle in your busy kitchen. You need to reconsider your design.
Maintaining a smooth traffic flow pattern around the fridge, sink, and stove is the golden rule. The majority of the action takes place in this “kitchen triangle,” so you want to be able to move between them fluidly and smoothly without feeling like you’re in limbo.
You see, a little preparation pays big dividends. Although it may seem laborious at first, you will undoubtedly be preparing yourself for a stylish and useful kitchen. It is therefore best that you do not skip!
35 Modern & Budget Friendly Small Kitchen Decor Hacks
Floating Shelves
Open up your kitchen by replacing bulky cabinets with floating shelves. These shelves not only enhance the visual space but also offer easy access to frequently used items like dishes, utensils, and ingredients, making your kitchen more functional and stylish.
Go Vertical
Maximize your wall space with vertical storage solutions such as high-mounted shelves, hanging pot racks, knife magnets, or magnetic spice racks. This strategy clears up counter space and adds a sleek, modern touch to your kitchen.
Lighten Up
Brighten your kitchen by opting for lighter colors on walls, cabinets, and countertops. Light hues reflect natural light, creating a more open and airy feel that makes your kitchen seem larger and more inviting.
Backless Stools
Backless stools are a space-saving solution that offers both practicality and style. They can be neatly tucked under the counter when not in use, providing extra seating without taking up unnecessary space.
Over-the-Door Organizer
Make the most of the often-unused space behind pantry or cabinet doors with over-the-door organizers. These are ideal for storing items like cutting boards, cleaning supplies, and spices. Adding hooks or magnetic racks can further enhance organization by holding towels, measuring cups, or oven mitts.
Rolling Island
A small, movable island provides extra prep space and can be easily relocated when needed. Use it as a bar cart or plant stand when it’s not in use, offering versatility and additional functionality in your kitchen.
Pegboard Wall
Transform an empty wall into a versatile storage area with a pegboard. This adaptable solution allows you to hang pots, pans, and kitchen utensils, while colorful accessories like dish towels and plant pots add a vibrant touch to your kitchen.
Clear Canisters
Swap out bulky boxes for clear or decorative canisters to store dry goods. This approach not only keeps your kitchen organized but also adds a touch of elegance and visual appeal to your space.
Smaller Appliances
Opt for compact appliances to free up counter space. Choose a toaster oven over a full-sized one, a single-serve coffee maker instead of a bulky pot, or a hand mixer rather than a countertop stand unit. Many smaller appliances are available at similar or lower prices than their larger counterparts.
Fold-Down Table & Chairs
If you’re tight on dining space, a fold-down table can be a great solution. It folds up against the wall when not in use. Similarly, folding chairs or a collapsible breakfast bar provide additional seating and can be stored away easily.
Pendant Lights
Enhance your small kitchen’s ambiance with stylish pendant lights. Hang them above the dining area or kitchen island to create a focal point and add a touch of elegance to your space.
Drawer Organizers
Keep your kitchen drawers organized and clutter-free with drawer organizers. They help separate utensils, spices, and other essentials, making it easier to find what you need and maximizing storage efficiency.
Ceiling Wallpaper
Adding wallpaper to the ceiling is a modern decor idea that draws the eye upward, making the kitchen feel more spacious. Choose a pattern that complements your kitchen’s design and ensure proper ventilation to prevent moisture-related issues.
Tilt-Down Drawer
Maximize every inch of your small kitchen with a tilt-down drawer installed near the sink. It’s perfect for storing cleaning supplies and sponges, keeping them accessible and freeing up valuable counter space.
Utility Closet
Avoid cluttering your kitchen cabinets with infrequently used items by designating a utility closet for cleaning supplies like brooms and mops. This keeps your kitchen cabinets organized and ensures essentials are readily available.
Vertical Herb Garden
Introduce a touch of greenery to your kitchen with a vertical herb garden. Hang small pots of herbs on a wall-mounted trellis or shelf for easy access while cooking, or opt for low-maintenance plants to enhance your kitchen’s ambiance.
Under-Cabinet Lighting
Illuminate your kitchen and create a cozy atmosphere with under-cabinet lighting. LED strip lights are an affordable, easy-to-install option that modernizes your kitchen and enhances its functionality.
Corner Shelves
Utilize corner spaces with small corner shelves if you don’t have room for wall-to-wall shelving. These shelves are perfect for displaying decorative items, cookbooks, or keeping frequently used condiments and spices within reach.
Fold-Out Pantry
Optimize your storage with a fold-out pantry. These slim cabinets are ideal for organizing dry and canned goods without taking up much floor space, helping you keep your kitchen tidy and efficient.
Bottle Pull-Out
If you love wine but lack space for a mini fridge, consider installing a bottle pull-out system. It’s perfect for storing wine and other beverages, such as juice or olive oil, keeping your kitchen organized and accessible.
Floor Rug
Add warmth and texture to your small kitchen with a floor rug. Choose a washable rug in a size that fits your kitchen layout, and opt for vibrant colors to add visual interest without overcrowding the space.
Open Windows
Maximize natural light and fresh air by keeping your windows open whenever possible. This simple trick helps make a small kitchen feel more spacious and inviting, creating a more pleasant cooking environment.
Accent Wall
Make a statement with an accent wall in your kitchen. A pop of color or pattern on one wall can add personality and style, especially in a small space. This is a great option for renters who may not want to repaint the entire kitchen.
Built-in Seat
Create a charming breakfast nook with a built-in seat featuring storage underneath. Positioned by a sunny window, it’s perfect for enjoying morning coffee or casual meals while maximizing your kitchen’s space.
Mirrors
Enhance the brightness and sense of space in your kitchen with a strategically placed mirror. Mirrors reflect natural light, making your kitchen appear larger and more open.
Nested Mixing Bowls
Save cabinet space with nested mixing bowls that stack neatly inside each other. This not only reduces storage needs but also provides a range of bowl sizes for your cooking and baking tasks.
Half-Size Kitchen Bar
If a full-sized island or breakfast bar isn’t feasible, consider a half-size bar. It extends your counter space, offers a spot for casual seating, and can double as a prep area, seamlessly integrating into your kitchen layout.
Patterned Decals
If you’re looking for a stylish backsplash but are limited by budget or rental restrictions, removable patterned decals are a great alternative. They are easy to apply and change, offering an affordable way to refresh your kitchen’s look.
Above-Refrigerator Space
Make use of the space above your refrigerator by installing slim cabinets or open shelves. This area is perfect for storing items like extra pantry staples or seasonal cookware. Use baskets or canisters to keep it organized and visually appealing.
Slim Trash Can
Opt for a slim trash can that fits neatly beside cabinets or appliances. This solution keeps your kitchen clean without taking up valuable floor space. Look for models with a step pedal for hands-free operation.
Hanging Fruit Basket
Free up counter space and add rustic charm with a hanging fruit basket. This practical and stylish option keeps fruits and vegetables fresh and easily accessible. Choose a wire or woven basket that complements your kitchen’s decor.
Corner Sink Shelf
Utilize the corner space around your sink with a corner sink shelf. This practical addition provides extra storage for sponges, dish soap, and scrub brushes, keeping these essentials within easy reach and reducing countertop clutter.
Stackable Kitchen Chairs
Add extra seating to your small kitchen with stackable chairs. These chairs can be neatly stored in a corner or closet when not in use, providing flexibility and saving floor space.
Over-the-Sink Drying Rack
An over-the-sink drying rack allows you to air-dry dishes without using up valuable counter space. Choose a durable model with a drip tray to keep excess water from making a mess on your countertops.
De-Clutter!
Decluttering is key in a small kitchen. Eliminate expired spices, chipped mugs, and unused appliances to create a more organized and functional space. If you haven’t used an item in a year, consider donating or discarding it.