Furnishing a small kitchen might seem like a challenge, but with the right ideas and some clever space-saving tricks, you can create a functional, stylish space ready to host your special moments. In this article, we’ll guide you step by step through how to furnish a small kitchen by making the most of every centimetre—without compromising on design.
How to Furnish a Small Kitchen: Practical and Space-Saving Tips
You can’t move the walls, but you can make your kitchen feel bigger and more functional with a few smart adjustments. When it comes to furnishing a small kitchen, the real key is to maximise every available centimetre, using intelligent solutions and versatile furniture. Here are the most effective strategies to turn even the most compact kitchen into a beautiful and practical space.
1. Make Use of Vertical Space
Walls aren’t just for hanging art—in a small kitchen, they become essential surfaces. Full-height wall units, for example, allow you to use vertical space without taking up valuable floor area. Choose closed cupboards up to the ceiling for a neat look, or mix in open shelving—perfect for plates, jars, and decorative items.
Don’t forget the corners: with corner units or suspended shelves, you can take advantage of often-overlooked areas. Above the fridge or between cabinets and the ceiling, consider adding stackable containers or closed compartments to store items you use less frequently.
2. Choose Multi-Functional Furniture
When space is limited, every piece of furniture needs to serve more than one purpose. That’s why multi-functional furniture is one of the best solutions for small kitchens.
- Extendable tables: They stay compact but can expand to seat more people. Some models also convert into desks, consoles, or even kitchen islands.
- Benches with storage: Comfortable to sit on, and ideal for storing blankets, tablecloths or kitchen tools.
- Foldable or drop-leaf tables: Wall-mounted and easy to hide when not in use.
These elements help you optimise space without sacrificing style.
3. Light It Right: Lighting Shapes Perception
A small kitchen with the right lighting instantly feels more spacious. Lighting should be both decorative and practical.
- Install adjustable spotlights to focus light where it’s needed.
- Add under-cabinet LED lights to brighten up worktops and eliminate shadows.
- Make the most of natural light: light or sheer curtains let sunlight in without obstruction.
Avoid harsh yellow or cold white tones—opt for neutral light (around 4000K) for a balanced, pleasant effect.
4. Choose Sliding or Folding Doors
Every centimetre matters—even those taken up by a swinging door. Sliding or folding doors are excellent space-saving solutions for small kitchens. They free up space for furniture, shelves or simply easier movement.
They can also separate spaces without fully closing them off, creating an open-plan effect that enhances the feeling of space. Frosted or satin glass models allow light through while maintaining privacy.
5. Cut the Clutter: Embrace Functional Minimalism
Decluttering is the first step to furnishing a small kitchen: the more items you leave on show, the more chaotic and cramped the space will feel. Go through everything you have:
- Get rid of tools and accessories you haven’t used in months.
- Avoid duplicate pots, mugs and crockery.
- Use stackable containers and organise cupboards by category (e.g., breakfast, spices, pasta…).
Keeping only the essentials makes your kitchen feel tidy, airy, and easier to use every day. Even visually, a clear work surface makes the room seem more open and inviting.
Want to learn how to declutter effectively? Read our article here..
What Table Should You Choose for a Small Kitchen?
When space is limited, your table shouldn’t be a bulky obstacle. In fact, it can become a strategic ally—if you choose the right model. If you’re wondering how to furnish a small kitchen without giving up on sociable moments, here are the best small kitchen table solutions.
Extendable Consoles: Compact on the Outside, Spacious Inside
Among the smartest space-saving solutions are extendable console: when closed, they’re less than 50 cm deep and practically disappear, but when opened, they transform into full dining tables that seat 10–12 people. Perfect if you want to host friends or family only when needed—without living daily with a bulky table.
Extendable Tables: Space Only When You Need It
Extendable tables are ideal if you want a practical table for everyday use that’s ready to welcome extra guests on special occasions. A perfect example is the Emma table: compact when closed and suitable even for the smallest kitchens, yet when extended, it comfortably seats up to 10 people.
Plus, it features a hidden storage compartment under the top—perfect for storing cutlery, placemats or small accessories. A small touch that makes a big difference in a small kitchen.
Materials and Shapes: Choose Light and Bright
When space is tight, every detail counts. Opt for light materials, like pale wood or matte white finishes—they reflect light and make the room feel larger. Go for thin legs or sled-style bases for a visually lighter appearance that won’t overwhelm the space.
What Colours Work Best in a Small Kitchen?
The way we perceive space is also influenced by colour. Here’s how to furnish a small kitchen using the right palette:
- Light tones (white, beige, light grey) reflect light and make the room feel larger.
- Pastel shades add personality without overwhelming the space.
- If you love contrast, combine dark base units with light upper cabinets to keep the room airy.
Avoid harsh contrasts and overly glossy finishes—go for visual consistency and soft tones instead.
Small Kitchen: Space-Saving Ideas to Try Now
Even in the smallest kitchens, there are clever solutions that combine style and practicality. Here are a few space-saving ideas you can implement straight away:
- Choose a wall-mounted breakfast bar like Evolution: it attaches to the wall and has a floating design, with no bulky legs. It offers a dining or working surface while keeping the floor clear and the room visually lighter.
- Install wall-mounted shelves like the Evolution model: sturdy and minimalist, with no floor support. Ideal for creating storage above the worktop without adding clutter or blocking movement.
- Use corner space with custom cabinets or rotating accessories: a well-designed corner unit can store much more than you’d expect.
- Hang utensils and accessories on the wall: a utensil rail or a few hooks for mugs and pans can free up drawers and keep everything within easy reach.
Can a Small Kitchen Have an Island?
Yes, even a small kitchen can feature an island—if you get the proportions right.
Choose a compact island (maximum depth: 60 cm), possibly on wheels, and equipped with storage compartments and shelves. It can be used as a work surface, breakfast table, or extra space for small appliances.
Space-Saving Appliances: The Best Solutions for Small Kitchens
When figuring out how to furnish a small kitchen, don’t underestimate the importance of choosing the right appliances. These often take up most of the available space, so it’s essential to go for compact, multifunctional or built-in models.
Fridge: Where Should You Put It in a Small Kitchen?
Learning how to furnish a small kitchen also means positioning your appliances smartly. Here are some of the best space-saving solutions:
- Slim or built-in fridges are ideal for narrow gaps.
- Place the fridge in a corner or at the end of a linear kitchen layout to maintain visual flow.
- With a built-in oven column, add a fridge module underneath to save space.
- Use the space above the fridge for shelves or wall units.
Compact Dishwashers
Yes, even in a mini kitchen, there’s room for a dishwasher. There are 45 cm-wide models or countertop dishwashers, perfect for singles or couples. The best small kitchen solutions feature integrated appliances—and ideally, ones with multiple functions.
Cooktop and Oven
For the hob, go for a 2-burner model if space is tight, or install an induction hob with a cover that doubles as a surface. Consider replacing the oven with a microwave + grill combo—compact and versatile.
Conclusion
Now that you know how to furnish a small kitchen, it’s time to put ideas into action. Remember: even in a few square metres, you can create a functional, welcoming and stylish space tailored to your needs.
Smart space-saving solutions and great design can absolutely coexist. Just choose wisely and let your creativity flow!
