5 Kitchen Design Ideas to Transform Small Spaces: From my own remodeling adventures: creative kitchen solutions that actually workElena HartwellSep 24, 2025Table of ContentsIdea 1: Open Shelving + Vertical StorageIdea 2: Multi-Functional IslandIdea 3: Light + Reflective SurfacesIdea 4: Hidden AppliancesIdea 5: Compact Work TriangleFAQTable of ContentsIdea 1 Open Shelving + Vertical StorageIdea 2 Multi-Functional IslandIdea 3 Light + Reflective SurfacesIdea 4 Hidden AppliancesIdea 5 Compact Work TriangleFAQFree Room PlannerDesign your dream room online for free with the powerful room designer toolStart for FREEOne time, a client asked me to design a kitchen with *zero* upper cabinets because she feared they would "watch her" while cooking. At first, I thought it was a joke—but it pushed me to rethink storage in a small space. That’s when I realized tiny kitchens can spark the biggest creativity. Today, I’ll share 5 kitchen design ideas from my projects, so you can make the most of every inch.Idea 1: Open Shelving + Vertical StorageOpen shelves instantly lighten the visual weight and make a kitchen feel bigger. I often pair them with vertical pantries that go all the way to the ceiling. It’s not just pretty—it forces you to keep things tidy. You do need to dust more often, but if you’re okay with that, it’s worth it. I once used room planner tools to visualize exactly how many shelves we could fit without overwhelming the space.save pinIdea 2: Multi-Functional IslandIn small kitchens, an island can double up as prep station, dining spot, and storage hub. I love adding deep drawers for pots and a pull-out spice rack on the side. The challenge? You’ll have to measure carefully so circulation isn’t blocked. And remember—wheels can make an island mobile, perfect for adjustability in tight layouts.save pinIdea 3: Light + Reflective SurfacesGlossy cabinet finishes, glass backsplashes, and under-cabinet lighting work wonders to bounce light around. It’s almost like cheating on space. However, fingerprints do show more easily! For one downtown loft project, I tested layouts with a free floor plan creator before committing to the built-ins, which saved us from a costly error.save pinIdea 4: Hidden AppliancesPanel-ready dishwashers and refrigerators blend seamlessly into cabinetry, making the kitchen look clean and uncluttered. Just make sure ventilation requirements are met—especially for ovens. I’ve even hidden microwaves in deep drawers for clients who hate the sight of them.save pinIdea 5: Compact Work TriangleEven in tiny kitchens, the sink, stove, and fridge should form a comfortable work triangle. The trick is adjusting distances so you’re not bumping into yourself. I’ve seen huge improvements using kitchen layout planner simulations to find the perfect fit for each client’s cooking habits.save pinFAQQ1: How can I make my small kitchen look bigger?Use light colors, reflective surfaces, and open shelving to give an airy feel. Good lighting is essential.Q2: Is an island possible in a tiny kitchen?Yes, but design it to be mobile or narrow for better traffic flow.Q3: What’s the most space-saving storage option?Vertical cabinets or tall pantry walls maximize unused air space above eye level.Q4: Are glossy cabinets high-maintenance?They do show fingerprints, but they reflect light beautifully and are easy to wipe down.Q5: How can I hide appliances?Use panel fronts matching your cabinets; check ventilation requirements first.Q6: Does layout really affect cooking ease?Absolutely—research from NKBA shows efficient work triangles reduce cooking time and fatigue.Q7: Can I mix open shelving with closed cabinets?Yes, just balance them to avoid a cluttered look; closed cabinets hide less aesthetic items.Q8: Are online kitchen planners reliable?Many are accurate if dimensions are entered precisely, but always verify with on-site measurements.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