10 Small Kitchen Cabinet Ideas for Maximum Space: My Favorite Small Kitchen Cabinet Tricks From 10+ Years of Design Experience

Once, a client asked me if we could fit a full-size wine fridge, a dishwasher, and a built-in oven in her six-square-meter kitchen. I laughed nervously… but we did it. That project taught me that small spaces are not constraints—they’re catalysts for creativity. In this article, I’ll share 10 small kitchen cabinet ideas I’ve refined over the years, each tested in real homes and tight spaces.

1. Use Vertical Cabinets

When floor space is scarce, go up. Tall cabinets can store everything from dry goods to small appliances. The challenge is making sure the top shelves are still accessible. I often suggest a slim rolling ladder for a touch of charm and practicality—like solving storage and style in one go. In one project, we even used a room planner to visualize just how tall we could go without overwhelming the space.

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2. Glass-Front Doors

Glass-front cabinets open up the visual field, making a small kitchen feel bigger. The bonus? You’re subconsciously motivated to keep them tidy. The downside is obvious—you can’t hide your mismatched mugs anymore.

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3. Pull-Out Pantry

Skinny vertical pull-outs can house spices, oils, and condiments in a very tight footprint. I love integrating them next to the refrigerator for a seamless flow.

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4. Under-Cabinet Drawers

Most people forget the toe-kick area. Drawers under lower cabinets are perfect for storing trays, baking sheets, or even pet bowls. They make every centimeter count.

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5. Corner Carousel Units

Corners often become dark, unreachable caves. Carousel or “Lazy Susan” systems bring items into the light, maximizing every inch of awkward space. In one reno, we planned it using a free floor plan creator so the rotation clearance was spot on.

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6. Open Shelving Above Sink

For small kitchens, upper cabinets can feel heavy. Open shelving over the sink breaks up the solidity and puts frequently used items within easy reach. The only catch: dust is real—so I advise storing only items you use daily.

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7. Slim Island with Storage

Yes, an island can work in a small kitchen—if it’s narrow and multi-functional. One side for prep, the other side as extra cabinet space. Bonus points if it’s on wheels.

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8. Multi-Depth Cabinets

Not all cabinets need to be the same depth. Shallow uppers for glassware, deeper lowers for cookware. It creates dimension while adapting to different storage needs.

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9. Fold-Out Counter Extensions

Sometimes you just need a little more prep area. A fold-out section that tucks back under the countertop is brilliant. It’s a bit of a compromise—you gain workspace only when you’re not cooking something messy.

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10. Integrated Appliances

Hide the microwave or fridge behind matching cabinet fronts for a clean, streamlined look. This trick works wonders for making tiny kitchens feel calm instead of cluttered. We nailed this look in a project planned on a kitchen layout planner, ensuring every hidden appliance had proper ventilation.

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FAQ

1. What are the best small kitchen cabinet colors?

Light neutrals like white, cream, or pale gray make a small kitchen appear larger. Reflective finishes also help bounce light around the room.

2. How do I maximize storage in a small kitchen?

Use vertical space, consider multi-functional furniture, and add clever storage like toe-kick drawers and pull-out pantries.

3. Are open shelves better than cabinets for small kitchens?

They can make a space feel larger, but they also require regular cleaning. It’s best to mix both for style and practicality.

4. Can tall cabinets make a kitchen feel cramped?

Only if they’re too bulky or poorly balanced with lighter elements. Glass doors or open shelving can visually break up the height.

5. What is the average cost of replacing small kitchen cabinets?

Depending on material and labor, it can range from $2,000 to $8,000. Custom designs are usually pricier.

6. Should I go for custom or prefab cabinets?

Custom cabinets optimize every inch, great for odd spaces. Prefab is faster and budget-friendly but may waste space in tight layouts.

7. What’s the easiest upgrade for outdated cabinets?

Paint and new handles can refresh cabinets instantly without a full renovation. A high-quality paint ensures durability.

8. How deep should upper cabinets be in a small kitchen?

Typically 12 inches is standard to keep the workspace open. Source: National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA) cabinetry guidelines.