10 Small IKEA Kitchen Ideas You’ll Love: Smart & Stylish IKEA Kitchen Inspirations for Small SpacesElena MooreSep 24, 2025Table of Contents1. Vertical Shelf Magic2. Roll-Away Kitchen Islands3. Under-Cabinet LED Strips4. Multipurpose Rail Systems5. Open Shelving with Color Play6. Sliding Pantry Solutions7. Fold-Down Dining Tables8. Mirror Backsplashes9. Compact Built-In Appliances10. Modular Storage BoxesFAQFree Room PlannerDesign your dream room online for free with the powerful room designer toolStart for FREEOne time, I had a client who wanted her 5-square-meter kitchen to feel “like a Paris café but also fit a full home bakery.” At first, I thought she was joking — but she was dead serious. That project taught me that small spaces can push your creativity to the limit, and honestly, IKEA pieces saved our day. Today, I’ll share 10 small IKEA kitchen ideas I’ve learned from over a decade of designing compact homes.1. Vertical Shelf MagicWhen floor space is tight, walls are your best friend. I often use IKEA’s wall-mounted shelving to store everything from spices to small plants. Just make sure you secure them properly — nothing wakes you up like a spice jar hitting the floor in the middle of the night.save pin2. Roll-Away Kitchen IslandsPortable islands can act as prep space by day and tuck neatly away by night. IKEA’s slim designs fit beautifully in micro kitchens, and pairing them with a room planner helps ensure they don’t block precious walkways.save pin3. Under-Cabinet LED StripsLighting transforms small kitchens. IKEA LED strips make counters feel spacious and luxe, yet they cost less than a dinner out. The tricky part is hiding the cords — but trust me, it’s worth doing right.save pin4. Multipurpose Rail SystemsThose stainless rails are not just for utensils. I’ve used them to hang mugs, herbs, even mini shelves. They can get cluttered fast though, so keep it curated.save pin5. Open Shelving with Color PlayOpen shelves can make a tiny kitchen feel airy. IKEA’s simple pine units look amazing painted in bold colors, especially when paired with clever layouts from a free floor plan creator.save pin6. Sliding Pantry SolutionsNarrow pull-out pantries fit into spaces you didn’t think usable. Ideal for small apartments, but remember — every extra feature adds to budget.save pin7. Fold-Down Dining TablesIkea’s wall-mounted drop-leaf tables are perfect for one-person breakfast nooks or extra counter space. Just make sure they’re mounted at the right height or you’ll forever bump your knees.save pin8. Mirror BacksplashesMirrors make small spaces feel double in size. A mirror backsplash behind your stove or sink can be dramatic, though you’ll need to wipe it often to maintain that flawless shine.save pin9. Compact Built-In AppliancesIntegrating a small dishwasher or oven into IKEA cabinetry keeps the look clean. I’ve used this approach in some of my more challenging kitchen layout planner projects with great results.save pin10. Modular Storage BoxesIKEA’s stackable storage boxes can live inside cabinets, under counters, or even on top of shelves. Label them well — otherwise, you’ll spend your mornings opening six boxes to find the coffee filters.save pinFAQ1. What is the best IKEA product for a small kitchen?Wall-mounted shelves and drop-leaf tables are game changers for tiny kitchens.2. Can IKEA kitchens be customized to fit odd spaces?Yes, IKEA cabinets come in modular sizes, and panels can be cut to fit. A good installer makes a big difference.3. How do I make a small IKEA kitchen look bigger?Use light colors, reflective surfaces, and proper lighting. Mirrors can also create a feeling of spaciousness.4. Are portable kitchen islands worth it?If you entertain or need flexible workspace, they’re excellent. Just ensure there’s enough clearance around them.5. Is open shelving a good idea in small kitchens?It works if you keep items minimal and organized. Otherwise, it can look cluttered fast.6. How much does an IKEA small kitchen cost?Costs vary widely. A basic setup can start around $1,500, excluding appliances and installation (source: IKEA US Pricing Guide, 2023).7. How to plan a small IKEA kitchen?Start by measuring your space precisely and using design tools. IKEA’s online planner or third-party tools can visualize the layout.8. What are the maintenance tips for an IKEA kitchen?Wipe spills quickly, tighten hinges regularly, and use gentle cleaners to protect laminate or painted surfaces.Start for FREEPlease check with customer service before testing new feature.Free Room PlannerDesign your dream room online for free with the powerful room designer toolStart for FREE