10 Smart Kitchen Storage Ideas for Tiny Kitchens: Creative space-saving hacks from my 10+ years in interior designLena MorettiSep 24, 2025Table of Contents1. Use Vertical Space2. Pull-Out Pantry3. Under-Cabinet Hooks4. Fold-Down Counter Extensions5. Deep Drawer Dividers6. Over-the-Sink Cutting Board7. Multi-Level Shelves Inside Cabinets8. Rolling Kitchen Cart9. Toe-Kick Drawers10. Corner Carousel ShelvesFAQFree Room PlannerDesign your dream room online for free with the powerful room designer toolStart for FREEOne time, a client asked me to fit a full-sized double-door fridge, a washing machine, and a six-seater dining table into her 5-square-meter kitchen. Yep, I laughed too — until I realized she was dead serious. That project taught me that small kitchens aren’t a design limitation; they’re a creativity booster. Over the years, I’ve come to love these challenges, and today I’m sharing 10 kitchen storage ideas that have worked wonders for my clients and even in my own home. If you’re redesigning, tools like the kitchen layout planner can be a lifesaver in the early stages.1. Use Vertical SpaceWalls are prime real estate in small kitchens. Install open shelves, magnetic knife racks, or even a hanging pot rail. Just watch out for visual clutter — stick to a consistent color scheme for items on display so it looks intentional, not messy.save pin2. Pull-Out PantryA slim pull-out cabinet can slide between your fridge and wall, or next to the oven. It’s surprisingly spacious for spices, oils, and canned goods. The downside? You’ll start hoarding spices you never use, because, well, you have the space.save pin3. Under-Cabinet HooksAdd hooks beneath cabinets for mugs or utensils. This keeps counters clear and uses otherwise wasted space. Make sure to measure mug height — I once hung them too low and they clinked against the counter every time I grabbed one.save pin4. Fold-Down Counter ExtensionsPerfect for extra prep area without committing to a permanent surface. These fold away when not in use. Just check your wall strength before mounting — I’ve seen one collapse mid-chop (no one was hurt, except the onion).save pin5. Deep Drawer DividersDrawers keep things more accessible than cabinets. Add dividers for pans, lids, and baking trays. This tip saved my client hours of searching and helps maintain sanity in a morning rush.save pin6. Over-the-Sink Cutting BoardA custom board that fits right over your sink adds workspace and hides dirty dishes when guests arrive early. I often pair this with designs drafted using a free floor plan creator to get the fit just right.save pin7. Multi-Level Shelves Inside CabinetsStackable shelves double your storage in tall cabinets. They’re inexpensive but can wobble if overloaded — choose sturdy ones to avoid the leaning tower of plates.save pin8. Rolling Kitchen CartA cart offers both storage and mobility. It can live in the kitchen or roll away when you need space. The trick is choosing one that matches your decor so it looks like it belongs, not like you borrowed it from the garage.save pin9. Toe-Kick DrawersThe space beneath lower cabinets can hide shallow drawers for trays or baking sheets. Installation can be tricky in older kitchens, but it’s a smart way to squeeze extra storage from nothing.save pin10. Corner Carousel ShelvesIf you have a corner cabinet, installing a lazy Susan or swing-out shelf makes every inch reachable. I’ve modeled these layouts in a 3D floor planner to help clients visualize the rotation and accessibility before installing.save pinFAQ1. How can I make my small kitchen feel bigger?Use light colors, glass cabinet doors, and consistent materials to create an open, airy feel. Minimizing clutter is key.2. Are open shelves practical in a small kitchen?Yes, but only if you can keep them organized and dust-free. They’re best for items you use daily.3. What’s the best storage for pots and pans?Deep drawers or a hanging rack work well. Choose based on your ceiling height and style preference.4. How do I add counter space without remodeling?Try fold-down extensions, rolling carts, or over-the-sink boards for instant workspace.5. What’s a budget-friendly storage upgrade?Adding hooks, magnetic strips, or stackable shelves inside cabinets is quick and affordable.6. Is it worth hiring a designer for a small kitchen?Yes, especially if you want to maximize storage. According to NKBA, professional planning can improve functionality by up to 40%.7. Can I use floor-to-ceiling cabinets?Absolutely. Just keep a step stool handy and store less-used items up high.8. Should I replace cabinet doors with drawers?If budget allows, yes. Drawers offer better access and organization for most small kitchen layouts.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