How designers make tiny kitchens feel spacious.

Today I want to introduce five practical tricks designers use to transform small kitchens into smart, stylish spaces, without knocking down walls.

First of all, it’s clear that small kitchens can be challenging, especially when you want functionality, beauty, and comfort all in the same compact space. But professional designers know something many homeowners don’t. A small kitchen doesn’t have to feel small. With the right planning and a few strategic design choices, even the tiniest layout can look open, bright, and surprisingly spacious. Here are some of the key points I want to share.

1. Light colors are your best friend

One of the simplest and most effective ways to make a kitchen feel bigger is using light color palettes. White, beige, soft gray, and pale wood tones naturally reflect light, creating an open and airy feeling. Designers often combine light upper cabinets with slightly darker lower cabinets to add depth without overwhelming the space. Glossy finishes can increase this effect by bouncing light around the room.

If you think light colors are boring, add personality with hardware, lighting fixtures, or a colorful backsplash. The key is keeping the main background bright so the room feels visually open.

2. Use vertical space wisely

When floor space is limited, the walls become your best opportunity for storage. Designers maximize vertical space by installing tall cabinets, open shelving, or even slim floating shelves above the countertop. This draws the eye upward, making the room feel taller.

Open shelves in particular create a sense of breathing room compared to bulky upper cabinets. They’re perfect for displaying everyday dishes or decorative pieces while preventing visual clutter.

Just keep the shelves styled neatly, too many items can make the kitchen feel busy.

3. Choose smart, streamlined appliances

Oversized appliances can overwhelm a small kitchen, so designers often select compact and built-in models. A built-in oven, a cabinet-depth refrigerator, or a narrow dishwasher instantly gives the space a cleaner and more organized look.

Another trick is choosing appliances with simple lines and minimal handles. The smoother the surfaces, the more seamless the kitchen will appear. In small spaces, even visual simplicity matters.

4. Add reflective surfaces for more light

Designers love reflective materials because they visually expand small spaces. Glass cabinet doors, glossy tiles, stainless-steel appliances, and polished countertops help distribute light across the room.

One powerful trick is using a mirrored backsplash. It creates the illusion of depth, makes the kitchen feel bigger than it actually is, and adds a modern touch. Even a small amount of reflective material can make a big difference.

5. Prioritize smart storage solutions

Clutter is the enemy of small kitchens. A clean countertop immediately makes the room feel larger, so designers incorporate clever storage solutions to keep everything tucked away.

Pull-out drawers, spice organizers, deep corner units, vertical dividers, and built-in trash bins help maintain order and maximize every inch. When everything has a place, the entire space feels calmer, cleaner, and more spacious.

If your budget allows, consider custom cabinetry tailored to your kitchen’s exact dimensions. It uses space much more efficiently than standard cabinets.

In the end

Small kitchens don’t have to feel cramped. With thoughtful planning, smart storage, and a few designer-approved tricks, you can transform even the tiniest layout into a functional and stylish space. Whether you're planning a full renovation or just making small improvements, these ideas can help your kitchen feel brighter, bigger, and more enjoyable to use.

I’m an interior designer who specializes in transforming small, practical spaces into beautifully functional homes. I love sharing real design solutions that anyone can use.

written by Zohre Asadi.