Small Kitchen Design Ideas: 7 Ways to Make It Work

A small kitchen doesn’t have to feel cramped. With the right layout, storage, and lighting, many small kitchens work better and look larger without adding square footage. Here are seven ideas to start with.

1. Choose a layout that fits your room

Galley and L-shaped layouts tend to work best in small kitchens. A galley kitchen puts counters and appliances along two sides of a central walkway, which suits a long, narrow room. An L-shaped kitchen runs along two adjacent walls, which suits a square room. Both keep the space open and uncluttered. To compare every shape, see Kitchen Layout Types: Which Shape Fits Your Home?

2. Pick a peninsula or a rolling island

A fixed island needs clearance on every side, and in a small kitchen it can crowd the room. A peninsula attaches to your existing counters, so it needs less clearance while still giving you extra counter space and seating. If you want flexibility, a rolling island or cart can add prep space and storage, and you can move it out of the way when you’re done.

3. Choose smaller appliances

Space-saving dishwashers, refrigerators, sinks, and ovens are available in smaller sizes. Standard models can make a small kitchen feel crowded, so ask your designer which sizes fit your room without cutting into counter space.

4. Plan your storage on purpose

• Put cabinets below the counter and use open shelves above. Too many upper cabinets can break up the room and make it feel smaller.
• Choose glass-front doors for any upper cabinets you keep. They take up less visual space than solid doors.
• Use high cabinets for things you rarely use. Keep everyday items within easy reach.
• Add drawers where you can. A drawer for dishes or pots can be easier to use than a deep cabinet.

5. Light the whole room

Dark corners make a room look smaller. Instead of one large light in the middle of the ceiling, use several recessed or pendant lights so the whole room is evenly lit. Then add task lighting over the stove, sink, and any peninsula where you prep food. Light wall colors help too, since they reflect light instead of absorbing it.

6. Keep surfaces and hardware simple

• Large floor tiles can make a small room feel less busy. Laying tile on a diagonal can also make a kitchen look longer.
• Slim pulls or recessed hardware keep cabinets clean and prevent snags. Heavy knobs can crowd a small space.
• A limited color palette makes a small kitchen feel calmer and more open.

7. Keep the counters clear

Clutter makes a small kitchen feel smaller. Give everyday items a home inside cabinets and drawers, and keep the countertops open for cooking.

Does a small kitchen cost less or take less time to remodel?

Size is only one factor. Layout changes, cabinets, appliances, and finishes also affect the budget and the schedule. For a closer look, see Kitchen Remodel Cost in Chicago (2026) and How Long Does a Kitchen Remodel Take in Chicago?

Planning a small kitchen remodel

Small kitchens reward careful planning, because every inch counts. Bring photos of kitchens you like and a list of what bothers you most about yours, and we’ll help you decide where to start. Learn more about our kitchen remodeling or see how a project moves from idea to finished space in Our Home Remodeling Process.

Small kitchen questions

What is the best layout for a small kitchen?

Galley and L-shaped layouts work well in small kitchens. A galley kitchen suits a long, narrow room, and an L-shaped kitchen suits a square one.

Should a small kitchen have an island or a peninsula?

A peninsula often fits better. It attaches to existing counters, so it needs less clearance than a freestanding island. A rolling cart is another option if you want something you can move.

How can I make a small kitchen look bigger?

Use light colors, even lighting, large tiles, glass-front cabinet doors, slim hardware, and clear counters.

Ready to plan your kitchen?

Tell us what you’d like to change, and we’ll help you decide where to begin.