Small l shaped kitchen ideas: The 20 best L-shaped kitchen ideas for a stylish space

The 20 best L-shaped kitchen ideas for a stylish space

Planning a kitchen takes a lot of work – after all, you want somewhere which functions with ease while being aesthetically pleasing at the same time. L-shaped kitchen ideas are a classic choice for this exact reason. The shape offers plenty of flexibility and storage, without feeling too enclosed.

Carefully considered kitchen layouts also ensure that this working space is just that – a practical area to prep and cook in. After all, if a kitchen fails in terms of practicality, it’s just annoying to work in and not an easily, or cheap, mistake to fix. This is why tried and tested layouts, like the L-shape are surviving the test of time

‘L-shaped kitchen ideas have a number of great benefits,’ agrees Alex Main, Director, The Main Company. ‘Offering a versatile solution, L-shaped kitchens are a great way to help maximise space and can be adapted to large and small spaces. Not only does it create a more open-plan layout and feeling of space, but it cleverly uses corner storage, decreases traffic flow between each area and ensures an effective working triangle. ‘

L-shaped kitchen ideas

Once you’ve settled on how to plan a kitchen layout in your space, you can choose one of these L-shaped kitchen ideas to design a pretty and practical room. Whether the space is generous or small, an L-shaped layout works with both contemporary and traditional cabinetry. And the form is flexible enough to adapt to structural needs, such as sloping ceilings or large windows.

1. Create a sense of space

(Image credit: Future PLC/David Giles)

Although L-shaped kitchen ideas work with the style and size of most homes, they can be especially beneficial in those with open-plan kitchens. 

‘It’s perfect if you want to separate the cooking and dining areas and works well as a guest friendly area, as the openness of the layout makes it easier to host and still be able to interact with guests,’ explains Neil McDonald, Design Manager, Moores.

‘You can make an L-shaped kitchen feel more open by choosing light cabinetry and worktops as well as strategically placed lighting to create the illusion of a larger, open space. ‘

Alternatively, not taking the cabinetry all the way to the floor will allow light to pass through from one zone to another, boosting the impression of size even further.

2. Maximise storage

(Image credit: Future PLC/Lizzie Orme)

The most useful examples of kitchen storage are tailored to your needs, and nearly any layout can be adapted to to suit yours. If your L-shaped kitchen ideas include one arm acting as a peninsula, then consider adding in storage round both sides and the end.

Don’t assume you have to have a flat end, either. A curved cupboard is a great choice for rounded pots, or pantry-style storage contained on kitchen turntables, from £9.99, Amazon, which means no more awkward reaching to the back for that spice you only use once in a blue moon. 

3. Break things up with open shelving

(Image credit: Future PLC/David Giles)

Even the best L-shaped kitchen ideas can sometimes feel a bit crowded. After all, most of the layouts rely on at least one wall on full height cabinetry. If this is the case for you, then replace some of the traditional cupboards with some open shelving ideas, instead.

You’ll have a better feeling of space, and a new area to keep oft-used items, or display favourite pieces and seasonal touches.

4. Add a splash of colour

(Image credit: Future PLC/Lizzie Orme)

When it comes to kitchen colour schemes, it’s often tempting to go neutral – and we don’t blame you. When you use a space day in and day out you want to feel confident you’re not going to tire of the overall effect. If you want to err on the side of caution with your cabinetry, then consider choosing a brightly coloured fridge instead.

In an L-shaped space this will also have the benefit of breaking up the look of two adjoining walls of cabinetry painted in the one shade. And who knows, maybe after a few years with the fridge you’ll be inspired to go bolder with your decorating decisions. 

5. Fake a U-shape

(Image credit: Future PLC/Lizzie Orme)

‘An option is to extend one of the ‘legs’ of your L-shaped kitchen ideas with a peninsula to create a U-shaped design,’ suggests Brani Hadzhi, Showroom Manager, Scavolini by Multiliving. ‘This peninsula offers almost all the advantages of an island.’

You don’t even have to have this built in. In fact, a kitchen cart will mimic this look but has the added benefit of being able to be moved. This way, you can have an island setup in moments when needed. Some, like the Forhoja, £129, Ikea, have wheels, making moving them around even easier.

6. Play with colour blocking

(Image credit: Daval)

‘An L-shaped solution will help you make good use of the space available and you’ll have plenty of room for cabinets on one side, as well as ample space for bar style meals on the other,’ says Simon Bodsworth, MD, Daval Furniture. ‘The cook has plenty of room to manoeuvre and can chat with guests at the same time, it’s a real win-win in a hardworking kitchen that likes to entertain guests.’

As well as being perfectly practical, an L-shaped kitchen with an island provides a wonderful base to start working with colours. Choose two complementary colours for the cabinetry and island, and use surfaces in one of these two shades. For an added pop of colour, select a third – more unexpected – tone, and use in accessories and detailing, like window dressings, upholstery and tiling.

7. Break up the layout

(Image credit: Second Nature Kitchens)

‘Think about the size of the room you have and what you want to do in that room,’ says Graeme Smith, head of design at Second Nature Kitchens. ‘Is it purely cooking? Or do you want to use it for socialising, dining or working too?’ If the latter, adapt your L-shaped kitchen ideas to suit your needs.

For a kitchen which will be multifunctional, tuck a second of the ‘L’ behind a panel of glazing to create some privacy. This is great for keeping mess hidden from guests, and for prepping food in if other family members are working elsewhere in the space.

8. Integrate a table

(Image credit: Wren Kitchens)

Since the U is the sister layout to L-shaped kitchen ideas, this is a look you can replicate in spirit using your dining table and chairs to suggest the appearance of a peninsula kitchen.

Choose two benches or an L-shaped sofa, and place directly next to the end of your cabinetry. For a seamless look that will trick the eye, match the upholstery to the colour of your cabinets.

9. Link with materials

(Image credit: Harvey Jones)

L-shaped kitchens ideas with islands are always a good look – so long as you know how much space is needed between a counter and an island. The downside is that the two work areas can seem rather disparate.

Link the sections together by matching your materials exactly. Think the same surface material, the same cabinetry paint and the same hardware. Not only will this create a cohesive look, but the space will look larger as your eye isn’t drawn to something ‘different’ elsewhere in the room.

10. Balance your storage

(Image credit: Optiplan Kitchens)

‘Maximise the use of worktops and cabinets down the room – including storage low and high to make the most of storage space available,’ says Andy Briggs, Interior Designer at Optiplan Kitchens. ‘ A large number of cupboards and some internal storage solutions can all push up the price of a new kitchen – so think about what kitchen layout will best suit your lifestyle and what you want to achieve in this space.’

Make the room feel larger without compromising on this key storage element by painting higher cabinets in the same colour as the walls, so they seem to disappear. Lower kitchen cabinet paint ideas should then involve lighter and brighter shades to draw the eye without weighing the room down.

11. Create a practical workspace

(Image credit: Olive & Barr)

It’s key to consider the working triangle, also known as the kitchen triangle. This is the space in which most of the practical work is being done – the chopping, cooking, cleaning and so on. The idea is that you want everything to hand so that work flows in an easy and unencumbered manner.

L-shaped kitchen ideas provide a great basis for creating a practical working triangle. A good idea is to start at the far end of the ‘L’ and work along the two arms in the order in which you will be accomplishing tasks. Perhaps starting with your sink for washing food, surfaces for prepping, and then onto the oven for cooking.

12. Store vertically

(Image credit: Future PLC/ Veronica Rodriquez)

L-shaped kitchen ideas are efficient at making the best use of space. Take the design ethos one step further by using the entire wall to fashion clever storage solutions, from floor to ceiling.

Working with the dominant wall, the one without a window in this case, stylish kitchen cabinets are used above a tiled splashback.

The statement storage spans the entire width of the wall and reaches to the ceiling to ensure every inch of space is utilised. Making the most of storage space is an important thing to do in galley kitchens, too. To add another smart vertical storage element, the chefs knives are stored along a wall-mounted magnetic strip.

13. Balance the L-shape with a window

(Image credit: Future PLC/ Barbara Bazso)

This is the most practical way to use L-shaped kitchen ideas, and the most popular. By running one side of the L under a window you help to balance the other side, which houses the cooker, cooker hood and cabinets.

By incorporating the window into the design you help to give equal purpose to the far wall, using the view beyond to make a statement. Windows also help to lighten U-shaped kitchens as well. Take the look further by adding a patterned blind to add interest. In this homely white kitchen the generous window needs little else to grab attention.

14. Double the L-shape potential

(Image credit: Future PLC/ Robert Sanderson)

If space is no issue you could opt for a layout that cleverly incorporates two L shapes. A bit like the premise of a classic video game, use the kitchen units to fit together perfectly to make the best use of floor space.

The main L-shaped counter can be a base for the kitchen appliances and amenities, while a smaller L fits within the space to house a built-in dining bench area. Using the L shape to fashion a separate zone helps to create a sociable dining area that feels disconnected just enough from the main cooking space.

15. Keep your living room separate in an open-plan space

(Image credit: Future PLC/ Robert Sanderson)

It goes without saying, if you have an open-plan kitchen and living area, you only really have two walls on which to consider for the kitchen. Capitalise on a far-side corner to keep the kitchen restricted, allowing the living area to benefit from the windows and other architectural details.

The kitchen takes up valuable wall space which means you therefore can’t sacrifice any walls with design details already in place. When considering kitchen appliance layout ideas, keep sinks and appliances to one end to ensure they are at the furthest distance from the living area also.

16. Make the most of a small kitchen space

(Image credit: Future PLC/ Lizzie Orme)

In a small kitchen an L shape is ideal as it concentrates all storage and appliances into two sides of the room, leaving the others free and open. This makes the overall space seem bigger.

Keep the colours on the lighter side so it doesn’t appear too cramped. A mixture of cabinets and drawers makes housing pans, pots and general paraphernalia a breeze. While glass Kilner jars display pretty condiments and dried food to perfection.

17. Open up your scheme

(Image credit: Future PLC/ David Giles)

This L-shaped kitchen makes excellent use of space. It is easy to work in, as the work triangle can be easily established. Open shelving prevents a small kitchen from looking too busy, while banks of cabinets look stunning in a large kitchen as well as providing an abundance of storage.

A table and chairs fits neatly into the kitchen, while still zoning it off from the rest of the room. Whatever the size of your kitchen, the beauty of L-shaped kitchen ideas lies in the simplicity and flexibility. And the ease with which it can be adapted to suit practical requirements and different design tastes, too.

18. Utilise colour and pattern

(Image credit: Future PLC/ Lizzie Orme)

Don’t be afraid to use darker colours and patterns in your kitchen. Deep colours are warming so often work well in larger kitchens. Inject refined rustic style with painted wooden cabinetry.

In a traditional space, use painted wood to co-ordinate kitchen cabinets with walls and architectural features; in a contemporary scheme, to soften the sharp edges of minimalist design. Go for a mid to deep shade, like the one in this grey kitchen, as it oozes easy elegance and sophistication.

19. Incorporate an island

(Image credit: Future PLC/ Fiona Walker-Arnott)

Where space isn’t an issue then L-shaped kitchen ideas with a central island unit provides informal dining space for the family or a place to chat with friends over coffee. Keep the cooking and kitchen chores tightly together in an L and let the rest of a large room be given over to family life.

Add personality and character with quirky signage and curios, which pop when set against cream kitchen ideas like in this scheme.

20. Work storage into a corner

(Image credit: Future PLC/ Lizzie Orme)

Give a wood-effect design an edge with statement accessories. This rustic country kitchen is brought to life with contemporary tiling. The choice of light and dark tiles, which work to separate the cooking and prep zones, provides a stark, modern contrast to the more traditional cabinet design.

If your kitchen is verging on the small side, consider installing wall-hung shelves into the corner of the room.

Open shelves are a practical and stylish solution in any kitchen. Display china and glassware, so that they are easily accessible. Try running a fixed rail below the bottom shelf to hold utensils with hooks for saucepans.

How do you arrange an L-shaped kitchen?

‘As the name suggests, L-shaped kitchen ideas are laid out across two perpendicular walls of differing length,’ explains Ben Burbidge, MD, Kitchen Makers. ‘It will sit well in most corners of a room but it’s important to consider how you would like the space to function when you plan the layout.’

‘Many designs incorporate a dining zone or island so think about the flow around the room and the relationship between the doors and windows to ensure that the space works functionally as well as aesthetically. ‘

What is an L-shaped kitchen with an island?

‘For those working with an open-plan space, this style of kitchen works exceptionally well,’ explains Paul Bangs, category director for kitchens at Wickes. ‘The addition of an island can provide an extra preparation and seating area, whilst becoming a focal point for the room. Likewise, this style of kitchen works well for those who entertain often or have families, as they offer plenty of space.’

‘This is also great way to boost storage, prep space and achieve a more efficient layout,’ agrees Brani from Scavolini by Multiliving. ‘Consider placing a hob on your island so that you don’t have your back to guests while you’re cooking. You could even incorporate a breakfast bar into your island so that it becomes a social hub.’

Where should a fridge be in an L-shaped kitchen

With any kitchen design the placement of the fridge has to inline with the design triangle of use – the journey between fridge, sink and oven. But given the shape of an L this will mean the fridge is best placed at either end of the workstations, because it’s the starting point of the journey.

‘The L-shaped layout tends to naturally create a space for any tall cabinets (for example a fridge freezer), leaving a stretch of work surface for the return,’ adds Elizabeth Sherwin, Creative Director, Naked Kitchens.

50 Lovely L-Shaped Kitchen Designs & Tips You Can Use From Them

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When designing a functional kitchen, the ‘working triangle’ should be kept in mind – that is, the distance between your sink, stove and fridge. An L-shaped kitchen lends itself perfectly to this triangular tip, being two sides of a triangle to begin with. An L-shaped layout works best in small and medium sized spaces, which fly closer to the work triangle efficiency guideline of spreading workstations at no more than 1200mm apart. A great kitchen is not all about rules though, it’s equally about how that space feels and inspires you to create fabulous food. This collection brings ideas for cabinet placement, shelving designs, statement backsplashes, eating areas and more.

• 1 |
• Visualizer: Evgenia Belkina

Busy, busy, busy. A heavily patterned backsplash and zoned flooring are the stars of the show in this colourful kitchen. A small semi-circular breakfast bar has been implemented at one side of the room to allow guests to socialise with the busy chef, and as a spot for a quick snack or early morning coffee.

• 2 |
• Designer: Euge & Seta

Block it out. This L-shaped kitchen layout with corner window is dominated by a colour block of solid yellow. The rectangle overlaps one half of a wall cabinet, and ends up across the window glass as coloured film. Yellow kitchen accessories complement the strong accent.

• 3 |
• Visualizer: Liuba Kushnir

Implement striking design features to unite each arm of the kitchen. A black box shelf underlines wall cabinets on one wall of this kitchen, and another forms an end point to the line of pale cabinets on the other side.

• 4 |
• Visualizer: umaT studio

Make the space feel more rectangular by adding an area rug. Set a tall decorative vase of flowers down on the floor at the units’ end, to soften the look of the hard edge.

• 5 |
• Visualizer: Fenix Design

Whip out the sledgehammer – after seeking the advice of a professional! If budget allows, open up your disused kitchen wall to the great outdoors with some retractable doors. The increased natural light and perceived space will truly transform your kitchen.

• 6 |
• Visualizer: Qide Design

A large picture window looking out to the garden can be hugely satisfying too. Note how the venetian window blinds at this one are wooden to match the horizontal strip around the kitchen base cabinets. A couple of geometric succulent planters match the geo backsplash, and provide a perfect modern flourish.

• 7 |
• Source: Ikea

This sweet little grey kitchen is warmed up with gold cabinet handles and natural wood accessories. A table with a drop leaf makes a great addition to a small kitchen, allowing the eating space to be maximised or minimised in an instant.

• 8 |
• Visualizer: Alesya Kasianenko

Focus on what makes you happy. wine glasses are the focal point in this home, highlighted by the glow of strip lights inside glass cases.

• 9 |
• Source: Mansarda

Cater to the space, and your budget. If monetary constraints don’t allow for the building of bespoke kitchen cabinets into eaves, then use up that awkward space by installing a wall of open kitchen shelving at waning lengths.

• 10 |
• Visualizer: Specht Harpman

Fashion a peninsula around a challenging architecture.

• 11 |
• Visualizer: Anastasia Kuspeleva

It’s not just the cabinets that follow an L-shape here, the flooring follows suit too.

• 12 |
• Visualizer: Pikcells

Choose larder units in one colour, with standard base and wall cabinets in another to break the look of a long wall.

• 13 |
• Visualizer: Concept Vision

As L-shaped kitchens only use two walls, they naturally open up space. This is ideal for kitchens that flow into a living room or dining area.

• 14 |
• Visualizer: Pikcells

Find inspiration in tradition. Traditionally the kitchen sink was situated in front of a window, if one was available, like in this green kitchen. Although, in a modern age of dishwashers it doesn’t seem so important to always have the best view from here. A kitchen clock is another classic that’s been bumped. Digital oven displays and microwave clocks negate the need for analogue designs, however, they still make nice wall decoration.

• 15 |
• Visualizer: Muji

Colour coordinate. This yellow L-shaped kitchen with breakfast bar has a matching canary yellow fridge-freezer. If you like this then be sure to check out these other yellow kitchens.

• 16 |
• Visualizer: 3D Quart Studio

Include a corner pantry. This red kitchen has an open shelving unit filled with pantry supplies that are both useful and decorative.

• 17 |
• Visualizer: Concept Vision

Dial away wall cabinets in a paler colour. Base units in rich colours work well when teamed with white or light upper cabinets, so as not to oversaturate a space.

• 18 |
• Visualizer: Small Studio

Use ceiling panels to deepen the layout. This dramatically dark kitchen has an equally dark ceiling extension, fitted with spotlights. The matching material across the ceiling gives the layout extra depth, whilst two-tone cabinets play with form.

• 19 |
• Visualizer: Pikcells

Powdery perfection. A flurry of blush pink accents and copper accessories speckle a perfect measure of contrast and warmth through powder blue decor.

• 20 |
• Visualizer: Maciej Cylkowski

Golden honey toned wood additions and heavy black accents bring an entirely different feel to a light grey and white kitchen.

• 21 |
• Visualizer: Robby Brymer

Make a metallic mixup. A gold faucet, a silver oven, a copper vase and candlesticks. Anything goes.

• 22 |
• Visualizer: Vera Tarlovskaya Interiors

Jazz up the unused kitchen wall with some typographical art. It’s also a great way to mark up a side-slung dining spot.

• 23 |
• Visualizer: Maria Kukoba

Make two seperate rooms in one. With two walls to work with you could separate kitchen facilities from utilities by splitting the arrangement, like this kitchen with washing machine. Keep cooking, prep and food supplies on one arm of your L-shape, and place washing machines and utility cupboards for ironing boards, laundry supplies and baskets along the other.

• 24 |
• Visualizer: Modom Studio

Criss cross low mounted wall cabinets over base cupboards for a unique arrangement.

• 25 |
• Visualizer: Nataliia Dmytrievna

Use two depths of wall cabinets, in different tones, to break up a double banked arrangement.

• 26 |
• Visualizer: Polygon

Craft stand-out perimeters. Extend a soffit of recessed lighting around an L-shaped perimeter to add to lofty proportions. Create a unique kitchen backsplash with unusual shaped tiling in a series of different hues.

• 27 |
• Designer: Lauren Rubin

A collection of wall shelves decorate the leftover wall here, along with a series of kitchen utensil hanging rails.

• 28 |
• Designer: Studio Zapraszam
• Visualizer: Yuriy Bobak

indoor herb planters can hang along a rail too. This design allows pots to inhabit a space not deep enough for a shelf, where an open wall cupboard door from the other side might chip against its edge.

• 29 |
• Visualizer: Andrey Karasev

Go with the flow. This completely wooden kitchen module extends its style to the hallway beyond. A matching wooden facia flows over the adjacent wall and one interior door.

• 30 |
• Designer: Adrian Elizade

Even though the counter extends beyond the ‘L’ here, we’ve added this to the collection because it holds cunning inspiration for an L-shaped kitchen with a corner window. Notice how the end wall cabinet has been chamfered so as not to block out any of the natural light.

• 31 |
• Visualizer: Ogovio

Curate a gallery at the end of the run. A display of decorative plates makes a beautiful and fitting end point.

• 32 |
• Visualizer: Denis Bespalov

Simple and chic. A glowing wooden cut through between crisp white cabinets looks clean and inviting.

• 33 |
• Visualizer: Alexandra Nyzhnyk

Create a chunky frame out of cabinets, like this white framed kitchen design with wooden inset.

• 34 |
• Designer: BIG Design
• Visualizer: Vancouver House

Create a party piece. The wine cooler that towers the full height of this black kitchen is certain to keep guests entertained!

• 35 |
• Visualizer: Serj Fedin, Serj Kondratskyi & Yevhen Zahorodnii

A boxy plant holder fringes this L-shaped kitchen with island. LED illuminated shelves brighten a wooden feature wall. Wooden bar stools match the veneer on the cabinets.

• 36 |
• Visualizer: Polygon

Another wine rack in an L-shaped kitchen with peninsula. This time the vino is brought right to the bench. It might prove a challenge to stop at just one bottle.

• 37 |
• Visualizer: Daria Ozhyhanova & Denys Kozak

Dual windows look grand along a length of countertop. Intricately patterned backsplash tiles on the other branch balance the look.

• 38 |
• Visualizer: Diễm Kiều

A large potted plant makes a natural divide between the kitchen and dining spot.

• 39 |
• Visualizer: Diễm Kiều

Use pattern to make the most of small spaces.

• 40 |
• Designer: SREDA interior

Open shelving units and colour blocks make an interesting scheme. Projecting out of the backsplash at an angle, the knife holder adds an interesting touch as well.

• 41 |
• Visualizer: Kuoo Architects

Minimalist kitchens can sink away into the walls with handle-free slab fronted units.

• 42 |
• Visualizer: Int2 Architecture

Adding light wood tone and cheerful prints to a white kitchen creates a wonderfully Scandinavian style kitchen.

• 43 |
• Designer: Studio Bazi

Even just a few special tiles can bring a new energy a plain white kitchen.

• 44 |
• Visualizer: Anjey Mospanyuk

If you like this look, take a glance at these other industrial style kitchen designs.

• 45 |
• Designer: Pura Arquitectura

An open shelf occupies one wall, whilst closed cabinetry completes the other. The change keeps the small space looking airy and open, rather than overwhelmed with too many units.

• 46 |
• Visualizer: BY Visuals

Metro tiles help a small space to appear wider.

• 47 |
• Visualizer: Anastasia Andryushchenko

A horizontal stripe is another method to visually widen the space.

• 48 |
• Visualizer: Schmidt Kitchens

Nope, this isn’t strictly an L-shaped kitchen but we’re taking a look at the L-shaped arrangement of wooden units that are complemented by a cheerful orange unit. The unusual piece has a series of open fronted and closed volumes for displaying and concealing choice items from view.

• 49 |
• Visualizer: Amr Moussa

Two bar stools make the end of a cabinet run into a breakfast bar.

• 50 |
• Visualizer: RNDR Studio

Wrap a countertop down the side of the end cabinet for a sleek luxurious finish.

• 51 |

1. Kitchen canisters
2. Fruit kitchen clock
3. Evercut Furtif Knives
4. Touch kitchen faucet
5. Comfort kitchen mat
6. Kitchen trash can with step lid
7. Counter edge cutting board with collapsible bin
8. Green foldable cutting board
9. Green and white sink strainer
10. Nesting bowl set
11. Modway kitchen stool
12. Swan ladle

Recommended Reading:
50 Wonderful One Wall Kitchens And Tips You Can Use From Them
50 Stunning Modern Kitchen Island Designs

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Design of a very small kitchen (80+ real photos)

It’s no secret that the most frequently visited place by the hostess is the kitchen. However, not all women are owners of a large kitchen. And so you want this room to be functional, comfortable, and most importantly, cozy.

Designers’ advice will come to help in solving this problem, which you can use and turn the proposed ideas into reality.

Contents

Which floor plan to choose

Square kitchen

Corner sets are suitable for square kitchens. In them, you can conveniently distinguish between a working and dining area. With this solution, the refrigerator, sink and stove can be arranged in such a way that they form a working triangle. Everything you need will be within walking distance.

An oval dining table can be placed opposite the set. This table can accommodate a large number of people.

If the design of the kitchen is quite small, for example, 2 * 2 m, then a folding table will do.

Wide window can be used as a dining area.

Rectangular kitchen

Rectangular kitchens are best placed along the walls. Instead of a dining table, it is better to give preference to a bar counter.

To visually expand the room, you can hang a large mirror on the walls or install a mirror kitchen apron.

For this option, it is preferable to choose curtains with a large pattern.

Extra light needs to be considered as the work area needs to be well lit. If the window is small or located on one wall, lighting is indispensable.

Small kitchen doors can be sliding to save space.

Irregular kitchen

These rooms usually have niches, spaces or ledges. The built-in closet fits perfectly into the recesses of the walls. It can accommodate kitchen utensils, household appliances.

A refrigerator or an unusual built-in bar can also take a place in a niche. It is better to make a kitchen set for such a kitchen to order or choose an option in which the doors of the upper cabinets will rise vertically.

Rules for choosing furniture for a small kitchen

1. You should be guided, first of all, by the issue of comfort and only then by your own taste preferences. For example, you should not buy a bulky sideboard made of solid wood that you like, which carries a minimum functional load, and at the same time clutters up an already small room.
2. To begin with, it is necessary to consider all existing types of planning. A kitchen plan drawn on paper will help a lot with this. One of the options is sure to suit the arrangement of a small kitchen.
3. Hanging cabinets, shelves and other pieces of furniture look much better in small spaces. And you should also choose the highest possible racks, literally resting on the ceiling – they will help save space in the room.
4. It is recommended to rationally use all free corners by installing headset parts, household appliances and other important elements in them.

When choosing furniture for a small kitchen, one should take into account such parameters as volume and ergonomics. The headset should be as compact as possible externally, but at the same time roomy. You should not choose furniture that resembles a design of huge boxes. It should be quite light and pretty, and occupy all corners, niches and other useless spaces.

The visual perception of the kitchen set also plays a huge role. This means that the color of the furniture that will be installed in a small room is extremely important. Light glossy surfaces will help to visually increase the space.

However, it is not recommended to buy a set that matches the color of the walls exactly. It is also very important to correctly place bright accents that will enliven the room and give it a twist.

Some design tricks can help make your kitchen look bigger. Mirrored surfaces will add depth to the room, exactly the same function is performed by glass doors and shelves, chrome-plated metal handles, and so on. At the same time, it is important to maintain harmony so that the kitchen looks stylish and attractive.

Equally important is the arrangement of furniture in the kitchen. For small spaces, it is recommended to choose a linear or L-shaped layout, abandoning the island, U-shaped and two-line layout. And also for a very small kitchen, built-in furniture is ideal, helping to save space as much as possible.

Choice of household appliances

Every housewife wants to use household appliances that greatly facilitate the process of cooking, these include a food processor, blender, microwave oven, steamer, bread machine, multicooker. And there is also a coffee maker, electric kettle, ice cream maker, toaster. How to place all this in a room that has a very modest size?

Designers advise to use the highest cabinets with deep niches, in which you can easily hide some of these items, taking them out when needed. You can place an electric kettle and a coffee maker on the work surface, as the most commonly used devices.

Narrow cabinets with rolling doors, located between the lower and upper tiers of the headset, are also perfect for storing household appliances.

Narrow dishwashers and ovens save space in the bottom row. The cabinets themselves must be equipped with appropriate mechanisms that provide quick and free access to the necessary devices.

There is a wide choice of such mechanisms – zapachny, folding, with a rotating carousel, folding and so on. Properly organizing the space of a small kitchen is not as difficult as it seems at first glance.

Color and decor

Here are a few basic recommendations:

• Light, warm shades are suitable for a small room.
• It is important to ensure that sufficient natural and artificial light enters the work area.
• The color of the walls should also be light shades.
• It is better not to use more than two colors in a small kitchen, otherwise staying there may become psychologically uncomfortable.
• “Painted” walls in a small room are also not appropriate.
• The color of the furniture should be in harmony with the walls.
• An excellent solution would be glass or transparent furniture that seems weightless and enlarges the space.
• Light-colored transforming table will complement the interior of a small kitchen.
• Roman blinds or blinds are a good decor element for a small kitchen.

How to save space in a small kitchen

There are many ways to save space in a small kitchen: whose.

Install additional shelves in cabinets, and then their capacity will increase significantly.

Use every available corner wisely to install appliances or corner cabinets.

At the very top of the headset, you can install spacious boxes to store rarely used devices and items.

If the cabinet is not high enough, it is recommended to place an additional shelf above it, it will be an excellent place to store kitchen utensils.

All frying pans should be placed on the special railing mechanism, stacked with each other.

A special side rack attached to the door of the set can store baking paper, foil, cling film, garbage bags and other kitchen items.

Directly under the sink, place a tension rod, placing the household chemicals used in cleaning on it.

Books and magazines with favorite recipes are recommended to be stored on a separate shelf attached to a free space on one of the walls. This shelf can also be installed directly on the refrigerator.

Use a wall-mounted dish rack to save space on worktops and cabinets.

Cutting boards are conveniently hidden in side “pockets” attached to the inside of the lower cabinets.

A metal cornice can be attached to the side panel of the headset to store kitchen utensils.

To store knives and other small metal objects, use a special magnetic tape attached to the wall in the “apron” area. The same magnetic tape can be used to store small jars of spices.

All items with long handles should be collected and placed in one place.

Regular paper holders used in offices can be adapted to store thermoses and bottles.

Wall shelves help unload cabinets.

Additional shelves with high legs can be installed on the work surface.

The table in a small kitchen can be folded down by attaching the top to a wide window sill.

A hanging structure can be placed above the work area, using it to store ladles, ladles, pans and other similar utensils.

The cutting board can be operated simply on the surface by turning off all the burners.

You can dry dishes not in a bulky dryer, but on a soft microfiber rug that quickly absorbs moisture and does not take up any space in the kitchen.

Mistakes that are often made when arranging a small kitchen

The owners of small and cramped kitchens often make planning mistakes that prevent them from using the room as functionally as possible, while not littering it with unnecessary interior items. How to equip a small kitchen? You can understand this issue using the example of the most common mistakes.

There is not enough space in the kitchen to store the necessary utensils. To avoid this, you should learn how to effectively use the free vertical space. Small shelves and cabinets can be installed above the stove, refrigerator, or even directly under the ceiling.

The work surface is too small. This is done in order to save space, but in fact, such a solution only contributes to more clutter in the kitchen. You can continue the work surface using a folding tabletop or a bar counter.

Elimination of the hood to save space. Unfortunately, a lingering unpleasant smell will completely spoil the impression of even the most elegant kitchen. There is no way to do without a hood in a small room. Designers are advised to choose compact models. If necessary, the hood can be hidden behind the facade of the headset.

As you can see, a small kitchen is not a reason to be upset. With a competent and rational approach to the design of this room, you can get a comfortable and functional kitchen as a result.

Small kitchens (real photos)

If you are the owner of a small kitchen, you will be interested to see our photo gallery with 320+ photos of small kitchen examples from professional designers.

Small kitchen design: 89 photos of interiors, design tips

Can a cooking area less than ten square meters be comfortable? Definitely yes. With the help of a competent layout, a successful palette and properly organized storage, it is easy to create a miracle even for 4-5 square meters. m. In this article we give step-by-step instructions on how to create a functional and stylish design for a small kitchen, and show examples of real interiors.

5 rules for designing a small kitchen area and examples

1. Choose a style
– Scandi
— Modern
— Eco
2. Think over the layout
— Corner
— U-shaped
— Linear
3. Draw on a lifestyle
4. Create a palette
5. Organize storage
Sample projects
– 4 sq. m
– 5 sq. m
– 6 sq. m
– 7 sq. m

Even in a small kitchen design matters. In an effort to fit everything you need into a limited area, it is not necessary to sacrifice beauty – so first of all decide which style you like. It should match the overall design of the apartment and work to visually increase the space. We will analyze the options suitable for small sizes.

Scandi

Instagram @projection_design

This is the undisputed leader among all styles when it comes to typical apartments and small areas. First of all, thanks to the idea itself: a comfortable, cozy design that makes efficient use of every centimeter and does not cost a fortune to repair.

Scandi Master Markers

• Light Palette
• Predominance of wood texture
• Simple shapes
• Discreet decor
• Natural materials
• Functionality at the forefront

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photo

Instagram @troev43m2

Instagram @gulnaz_scandi_home

Instagram @thehousethatjenbuilt_

Instagram @projection_design

Instagram @ladybagrova

Instagram @littleavonhouse

Instagram @at_my_surrey_chalet

A classic Scandi kitchen looks like this: a white or light gray set, wood-like countertops, a small dining table with light chairs. Beautiful ceramics, wooden boards, fresh flowers in pots, wicker decorations are used as decor.

Modern small kitchen design

Instagram @interiors_dd

Modern aesthetics are difficult to sum up under one denominator – it is rather a set of styles that are opposed to the classics. It is based on reasonable minimalism, which involves the rejection of everything superfluous, non-functional.

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photo

Instagram @jenechka_kostenko

Instagram @b_plan_design

Instagram @interiors_dd

Instagram @yuliagolavskaya

Instagram @homeofno3

Common features of modern design include: simple shapes and clean lines; natural shades, pleasing to the eye; minimum decor; built-in multifunctional equipment; Lots of light and open space.

Eco

Instagram @cozy.happy.home

Visually, eco-style is often very similar to Scandinavian. They really have common features: natural colors, light palette, use of natural materials. But if the latter in Scandi interiors refers to recommendations (the same wood can be replaced with cheaper eco-friendly MDF), then in eco-style it is the basis of philosophy.

The use of wood, stone, clay, glass, natural fabrics (linen, cotton, wool) is encouraged. It is quite difficult to design an interior exclusively from natural materials – at least it is expensive. Therefore, as in Scandi, eco-friendly analogues can be used in realistic eco-design. The palette is dominated by shades of beige, white, brown, green.

Caring for nature is also evident in the little things: wooden boards instead of plastic ones, reusable storage containers, glass jars, etc.

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photo

Instagram @healthylifestyle_domi_

Instagram @houseofvandel

Instagram @fendaarquitetura

Instagram @sar. ahhome

Instagram @kseniia.interiors

Instagram @stalinka_v_danilovskom

Instagram @cozy.happy.home

Thoughtful layout works wonders: looking at the photos of some projects, it’s hard to believe that the area of ​​the room is only 6 or 7 square meters. There are many options for arranging furniture in the cooking area, but three are best suited for the interior of a small kitchen.

Corner

Instagram @hameleon_home

L-shaped arrangement is a versatile option for any room size. It is especially well suited for small spaces, as it allows you to use the space in the corner and get additional storage space and a work surface. In addition, the design of a small corner kitchen leaves the third wall free – you can place a dining group there.

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photo

Instagram @interiors_dd

Instagram @anna_unschikova

Instagram @priima_alena

Instagram @interiors_dd

Instagram @hameleon_home

Instagram @dusty_rose_blog

9000 2 Instagram @gimbalmewek

Another advantage of the L-shaped layout is that it allows you to create a regular working triangle. This is a scheme in which the main zones (refrigerator, stove, sink) are located at the tops of an imaginary triangle at a distance comfortable for a person. As a result, during cooking, everything will be at arm’s length and you will not have to take extra steps.

U-shaped

Instagram @interiors_dd

U-shaped arrangement is considered to be more suitable for medium and large rooms, since it involves three walls at once, but it can also be chosen for a small area. What is important to consider?

• In a typical kitchen, for example, in Khrushchev, with such a layout, there will definitely not be room for a dining table. Most likely, it will have to be taken out to the living room.
• You can replace the classic table with a bar or make it a continuation of the windowsill. The same design can also serve as the third side of the U-shaped layout, especially if the kitchen is combined with the living room and you need to zone the space.
• The sink can be placed by the window to enjoy the beautiful view while washing dishes. Or leave this area under the work surface – cooking in natural light is very convenient.
• Also, the space under the window can be used for the bottom row of cabinets to organize additional storage systems. If the area of ​​\u200b\u200bthe room is small, pay attention to compact models 30-40 cm deep.

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photo

Instagram @projection_design

Instagram @daria_sozykina

Instagram @small_blue_flat

Instagram @interiors_dd

Instagram @modernjunecleaver

Instagram @bagrova.design

9 0002 Instagram @xrushchevka

Linear

You can place the headset in one row on any area. Yes, there will be two or even three times less storage space. But if you do not cook often, and you also do not need to store a large amount of dishes and appliances, then a single-row headset will be enough.

Instagram @odnushka_v_oblakah

This layout is most often used in two cases.

• The room is very narrow, the second row simply does not fit.
• In a single space where you want to make the cooking area as invisible as possible, and give the main part of the area under the living room.

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photo

Instagram @mavladi.home

Instagram @std__design

Instagram @a_gorskaya

Instagram @projection_design

Instagram @odnushka_v_oblakah

Instagram @natalya.kuzikova

9 0002 The most difficult but inevitable stage for owners of a small apartment. If you have only 5-7 sq. m, then in any case it will not work to fit all the existing equipment on them.

Instagram @design.nika_march

But this does not mean that the cooking area will be inferior. To make it convenient for you, ask yourself a few questions.

• How much and how often do you cook at home?
• Do I need an oven or is a microwave enough?
• Is a dishwasher obligatory or can it be omitted?
• Is there a place in the bathroom for a washing machine?
• What other equipment must be?

Based on the answers, it will become clear which large items you can refuse, and which you cannot do without in this zone. It is fundamentally important for someone to have an oven and a large stove, for someone there is enough hob for two burners. If you need to store a lot of things, it makes sense to choose a mezzanine set under the ceiling. And if in everyday life you adhere to minimalism, then you can completely abandon the upper tier.

The minimum required set includes a stove (or hob), sink, refrigerator. Some refuse the hood – living without it is absolutely real if you do not cook constantly and a lot.

With proper planning, even in a small area, you can place the necessary minimum of furniture and appliances – manufacturers offer compact models especially for small footage. In the gallery below, we have collected examples of the design of small kitchens with a refrigerator or washing machine, a full-fledged stove and a microwave oven.

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photo

Instagram @interiors_dd

Instagram @sivkova_yana

Instagram @design.nika_march

Instagram @projection_design

Instagram @lena_zufarova

Instagram @interiors_dd

900 02 A small kitchen should be not only comfortable, but also cozy. And even better – to seem larger than it really is. Well-chosen colors will help with this.

Light

Instagram @kseniia.interiors

The easiest way to make a space visually larger is to use the most light range in its design. The undisputed leader is white, which adds light and air to the atmosphere, visually expands the boundaries. Best of all are white walls and ceiling, preferably of the same tone, so that the transition from one plane to another is not noticeable. The set can also be snow-white or a warmer creamy shade.

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photo

Instagram @valeria_hygge

Instagram @studio_milash

Instagram @_dom_s_kotikami

Instagram @kseniia.interiors

Instagram @afrodinette

Instagram @fariz_mamedov

Instagram @katuher

To make the room not look like a hospital ward, the abundance of light colors can be diluted with contrasting details.

• Black or wooden top
• Bright decor
• Flowers in a vase or potted plants
• Pastel furniture
• Interesting pronounced textures.

Dark

Instagram @lena_zufarova

A dark palette is rarely used in a small area – muted deep tones absorb free space, there is a risk that the room will look like a dark cramped box. But this does not mean that such a color scheme is a taboo for small spaces. To avoid an unwanted effect, dilute the dark palette with light colors or wood texture and use deep colors in doses. For example, you can take an accent black technique or decorate only the lower facades in dark colors.

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photo

Instagram @projection_design

Instagram @xoxodeco

Instagram @stalinka.1956

Instagram @kseniia.interiors

Instagram @lena_zufarova

Invoices are also important. Matte surfaces are less easily soiled, and on a dark gloss, all fingerprints and the slightest pollution will be visible. In addition, the matte texture reveals shades of brown, blue, dark green, gray, and purple better.

Bright colors

Instagram @historiskahem

Bright colors can also be taken as a basis. They invigorate, awaken appetite and generally cheer up. To make such an interior look harmonious, provide enough light in the room. The more natural light, the better, but you can make up for its lack with diverse light bulbs.

Like dark tones, bright shades are also best diluted with white – it will add air and balance the variety of active colors. So that your eyes do not get tired of them, choose the most natural, slightly dusty shades: mint instead of light green, egg yolk instead of acid yellow, peach or candy instead of pure pink, etc.

Instagram @ksenyamaltseva

Instagram @projection_design

Instagram @a_gorskaya

Instagram @projection_design

Instagram @historiskahem

this storage space? Yes, but a little. Therefore, on a limited footage, it is important to use every free centimeter.

Instagram @jdanova_at_home

Here are some ideas that will allow you to store more things even in a tiny kitchen.

• Use vertical surfaces. If there is a free wall, you can hang shelves, a shallow rack, roof rails, or even folding chairs on it.
• If you have an L-shaped layout, you can organize shelves in the corner, a circular storage box for dishes or a place for household items. At the top, put small household appliances, store boards or dishes.
• An additional tier near the upper cabinets will not only solve the problem of cleaning hard-to-reach places, but will also give a significant increase in usable area. Under the ceiling, you can store food supplies, dishes and small appliances that you do not use every day.
• The same can be done with the bottom tier – for example, turn the plinth into flat drawers.
• If you replace the standard dining table with a breakfast bar, the space underneath can be filled with drawers.
• Part of the equipment can be lifted up – for example, to build an oven or microwave oven into the headset. This will free up space for the work surface and lower drawers.

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photo

Instagram @chrisveithinteriors

Instagram @jdanova_at_home

Instagram @maxi_home

Instagram @livishome

@tonya. doma

4 apt. m

Let’s start with an example of a typical Khrushchev kitchen with an area of ​​4.5 square meters, where the owners did all the repairs without a designer.

Instagram @nadyko

Classic corner arrangement was chosen for the headset. On a small window sill, it was possible to place not only indoor plants, but also small appliances. The refrigerator was moved to another room, so there was enough space for a two-burner hob; hoods; ovens; dishwasher; microwave ovens.

Chips that we liked

• A small gap between the headset and the wall was rationally used. In it, the owners made shelves from plywood and organized a bottle holder.
• In order not to take up space on horizontal surfaces, the microwave was placed on a shelf, visually built into the upper tier of the headset.
• The space in the corner was given over to a shelving unit – a capacious storage system turned out.

Instagram @nadyko

Instagram @nadyko

Instagram @nadyko

Instagram @nadyko

Instagram @nadyko

m

This project is an example of how you can implement a U-shaped layout even on a small footage without being limited to the Scandinavian style. On 5 squares, there was enough space for a spacious headset, a large stove, an oven, a dishwasher, a microwave oven, a refrigerator, and a dining group.

Instagram @designer_vera_ganeeva

Features that we liked

• Tabletop by the window – you can eat while admiring the beautiful view, and there are additional drawers at the bottom.
• Built-in refrigerator, dishwasher and microwave oven that do not stand out from the overall design.

Instagram @designer_vera_ganeeva

Instagram @designer_vera_ganeeva

Instagram @designer_vera_ganeeva

Instagram @designer_vera_ganeeva

6 apt. m

In this project, the designers have made a very unusual layout. The main headset is placed linearly; if you look at the room from this angle, it seems that the entire cooking zone is limited to it. The interior is made in the best traditions of modern minimalism: a warm light palette, natural textures, hidden storage systems.

Instagram @homevcube_

But the opposite wall deserves special attention: it was possible to place the upper tier of cabinets, a built-in refrigerator, a dining table and even a sofa there. The latter, together with chairs, acts as a bright accent.

Instagram @homevcube_

Instagram @homevcube_

Instagram @homevcube_

Features we like

• Mezzanine cabinets that allow you to store all the necessary things.
• Almost all appliances are hidden behind the facades, resulting in a stylish minimalistic design.
• The doors of the upper tier on the right wall are glazed – together with internal lighting, this technique gives a feeling of lightness, the space does not seem overloaded.

Almost 7 sq. m

The area of ​​the premises is only 6.6 square meters. The designers were not afraid of experiments and designed the traditional interior with country notes. The dominant color is olive, it is refreshed by blotches of gray and white, and brown creates a harmonious pair.