18+ Clever Design Tricks to Make Your Kitchen Feel Bigger

Transforming a small kitchen into a spacious and inviting area is all about smart design choices. With the right approach, you can make even the tiniest kitchens feel more expansive. Here are over 18 tricks to maximize space and make your kitchen feel bigger.

Use a Low-Contrast Color Scheme:

Opt for a low-contrast color palette that blends shades harmoniously, creating the illusion of more space. Soft tones, such as light greys, whites, or pastels, can make the walls and cabinets flow seamlessly, making the kitchen feel larger and more airy. Avoid harsh contrasts between cabinets and countertops, which can break up the flow and make the space feel cramped.

Lead the Eye Up:

Draw the eye upwards to create a sense of height and spaciousness. Vertical storage, tall shelves, or even painted lines extending from floor to ceiling can help create the illusion of more height. This simple visual trick can make the kitchen feel less boxed in and more expansive.

Small Kitchen Ideas for Open Plans:

In an open-plan kitchen, try creating a seamless flow between the kitchen and adjacent living areas. Use matching flooring or low-profile furniture that doesn’t break up the visual space. Incorporating open shelves or minimalist designs will help avoid a crowded look while maximizing the sense of openness.

Best Finishes for a Small Kitchen:

The finishes you choose can play a significant role in making your kitchen feel bigger and more spacious. High-gloss or reflective materials, like polished countertops or glass backsplashes, can bounce light around the room and create the illusion of space. Matte finishes can also work well, as they absorb light and create a soft, tranquil atmosphere.

Eliminate Clutter:

Clutter is one of the most significant space stealers in any kitchen. To make your kitchen feel bigger, keep countertops clear and store frequently used items out of sight. Use organized drawers and smart storage solutions to keep appliances, utensils, and cookware neatly tucked away.

Place Tiles Horizontally:

Install tiles horizontally to create the visual illusion of a wider space. Horizontal lines draw the eye across the room, making the space feel more expansive. This simple yet effective design trick can transform the appearance of your small kitchen instantly.

Paint It White:

White is the ultimate color for making spaces feel bigger and brighter. It reflects light, creating a sense of openness. Painting walls, ceilings, and cabinetry in white can significantly enhance the feeling of space in even the smallest kitchens.

Connect to the Outdoors:

Incorporate large windows or glass doors to connect the kitchen with the outdoors. Natural views and access to outdoor spaces can make the kitchen feel bigger by extending its boundaries visually. Consider adding a garden window or a window seat to enhance this effect.

Add Accessible Storage:

Smart storage solutions, such as pull-out cabinets, lazy Susans, or overhead racks, can help keep everything organized and easily accessible. By utilizing every inch of available space, you can avoid overcrowding and maintain a clean, spacious feel in the kitchen.

Stretch the Floor Space:

Use furniture and storage pieces that elevate off the ground, such as floating cabinets or wall-mounted shelves. This creates more visible floor space and gives the kitchen an airy, open feel. The less cluttered the floor area, the more expansive your kitchen will appear.

Replace Cabinet Doors with Glass:

Swap solid cabinet doors for glass-front ones to make the kitchen feel larger. Glass doors allow light to flow through the cabinets, giving the space an open, airy vibe. They also help create a more seamless look by maintaining visual continuity between the kitchen’s interior and the surrounding space.

Carve Out Storage Space:

Maximize every nook and cranny for storage. Add under-cabinet drawers, pull-out shelves, or use the space above the refrigerator for extra storage. Clever storage solutions can free up counter space and reduce visual clutter, making the room feel more expansive.

Consider a Minimalist Hood:

Choose a minimalist range hood that doesn’t overwhelm the kitchen with its size. Sleek, simple designs can contribute to the sense of openness. A low-profile hood or even a downdraft vent will help keep sightlines clear and make the space feel more open.

Embrace Natural Light:

Natural light is one of the best ways to make a kitchen feel bigger. Incorporate as many windows as possible, and consider adding a skylight or larger sliding doors. The more natural light that enters the room, the larger and airier it will feel.

Small Kitchen Ideas with Slender Furnishings:

In a small kitchen, opt for slender, streamlined furnishings instead of bulky pieces. Choose sleek dining chairs, slim stools, and compact tables that don’t take up too much visual space. Keeping furniture minimal allows more room for movement and enhances the feeling of spaciousness.

Widen a Small Kitchen with Stripes:

Stripes can visually expand a narrow kitchen. Consider painting horizontal stripes on the walls or using striped flooring to make the space appear broader. This design trick works well to create the illusion of width in a small, compact kitchen.

Get Creative with Small Pantry Storage:

In a small kitchen, your pantry storage can play a crucial role in maintaining order. Use creative solutions like pull-out pantry drawers, corner shelves, or even slim, vertical cabinets to make the most of limited space. Keep items organized and accessible without taking up too much visual real estate.

Appliance Garage for Small Kitchen:

An appliance garage can be a game-changer for small kitchens. Store your larger appliances, like mixers or toasters, in a dedicated, hidden space to keep counters clutter-free. By tucking these items out of sight, your kitchen will feel more organized and spacious.

Final Thoughts:

Creating the illusion of a bigger kitchen doesn’t require major renovations. With clever design tricks, you can maximize your space and make your kitchen feel larger and more inviting. From using a low-contrast color scheme to embracing natural light, these small changes can have a big impact on how your kitchen looks and feels. Start implementing these tips today to enjoy a kitchen that feels spacious and functional, no matter its size.