Whilst not all of us can be blessed with the space for a large kitchen, this doesn't mean it can't still be functional and stylish.
Molly Chandler, Designer at Willis & Stone, gives her expert advice on how to get the most out of a compact kitchen.
HOW TO MAXIMISE ON SMALL KITCHEN SPACE
Storage is a vital component in any kitchen and especially when space is short. To maximise the space, try to utilise vertical storage with tall cabinets or shelves that reach right up to the ceiling. Make the most of the inside of cupboards with racks or hooks and consider pull-out pantry shelves or racks between cabinets or next to appliances to maximise storage for canned goods, spices, and other pantry items.
Willis & Stone Bespoke Handcrafted Kitchen | From: £15,000
Cabinetry Design: Georgian Shaker
Willis & Stone Bespoke Handcrafted Kitchen | Slaked Lime Deep & Serpentine Georgian Shaker | From £15,000
Cabinetry Design: Georgian Shaker
Drawer organisers will help to keep utensils, cutlery, and other small kitchen tools neatly organised and under cabinet storage such as hooks, racks or magnetic strips are great for hanging mugs or cooking utensils.
Willis & Stone Bespoke Handcrafted Kitchen | Portland Stone Deep Georgian Shaker 16 From £15,000
Cabinetry Design: Georgian Shaker
Willis & Stone Bespoke Handcrafted Kitchen | Invisible Green Georgian Shaker 05
From £15,000
Cabinetry Design: Georgian Shaker
Wall mounted storage such as shelves, racks, or pegboards will keep items within easy reach while freeing up valuable counter and cabinet space. Think carefully about the corners of the kitchen and consider corner cabinets with rotating or pull-out shelves to maximise storage in these hard-to-reach areas.
Willis & Stone Bespoke Handcrafted Kitchen | Linen Wash Georgian Shaker 10
From £15,000
Cabinetry Design: Georgian Shaker
Choose compact appliances designed specifically for small kitchens, such as slimline refrigerators, narrow dishwashers, and space-saving microwaves. These appliances offer the functionality you need without taking up valuable floor space.
Willis & Stone Bespoke Handcrafted Kitchen | French Grey Georgian Shaker 17
From £15,000
Cabinetry Design: Georgian Shaker
Willis & Stone Bespoke Handcrafted Kitchen | Portland & Green Stone Georgian Shaker
From £15,000
Cabinetry Design: Georgian Shaker
Finally, consider multi-functional furniture pieces like kitchen islands with built-in storage or fold-down tables that can be tucked away when not in use.
Willis & Stone Bespoke Handcrafted Kitchen | Portland & Green Stone Georgian Shaker
From £15,000
Cabinetry Design: Georgian Shaker
LAYOUT TIPS FOR SMALL KITCHEN
When designing a small kitchen, opt for a layout that emphasises functionality and utilises every inch of available space effectively. Pay attention to traffic flow and ensure there is enough space for people to move around comfortably, especially in high-traffic areas like around the sink and stove.
Bespoke Handcrafted Kitchen by Willis & Stone | Wykes 18 | From £15,000
Cabinetry Design: Georgian Shaker
Willis & Stone Bespoke Handcrafted Kitchen | Linen Wash Georgian Shaker 07
From £15,000
Cabinetry Design: Georgian Shaker
A galley layout, with cabinets and appliances arranged along two parallel walls is a good option and will help to create a streamlined workflow with everything within easy reach. Alternatively, an L-shaped layout can help optimise corner space whilst still maintaining an open feel. This layout also provides ample counter space and storage along the two adjoining walls.
Willis & Stone Bespoke Handcrafted Kitchen | Portland Stone Light Georgian Shaker 10
From £15,000
Cabinetry Design: Georgian Shaker
Willis & Stone Bespoke Handcrafted Kitchen | Portland Stone Light Georgian Shaker 10
From £15,000
Cabinetry Design: Georgian Shaker
Don’t forget about vertical space. You can take advantage of this by installing tall cabinets that extend all the way to the ceiling. This provides additional storage for items that are used less frequently, keeping counter tops clutter-free. Open shelving also works well in a small kitchen, as it visually expands the space and allows you to display frequently used cookware while keeping them accessible. As a general rule in a small kitchen, keep the design simple and streamlined to avoid visual clutter. Choose sleek cabinet hardware, minimise decorative elements, and opt for clean lines to create a cohesive look.
Willis & Stone Bespoke Handcrafted Kitchen | French Grey Georgian Shaker Kitchen & Diner
From £15,000
Cabinetry Design: Georgian Shaker
Finally, if possible, maximise natural light by installing large windows or skylights. Natural light not only brightens up a small space but also creates a welcoming atmosphere.
Bespoke Handcrafted Kitchen by Willis & Stone | Three Farm Green | From £15,000
Cabinetry Design: Georgian Shaker
Willis & Stone are a small family owned business based in Cambridgeshire, founded by a family looking to furnish their home with quality, long-lasting and timeless solid wood furniture, this inspired a passion for manufacturing bespoke, solid wood items which they now deliver across the UK.
Visit: www.willisandstone.co.uk