Best Maharashtrian Kitchen Design Ideas: Incorporating Traditional and Modern Elements

Once, a client asked me if I could fit a traditional Maharashtrian grinding stone, a modular countertop, and an indoor herb garden into her 60 sq ft city kitchen. At first, I thought she was joking — but that tiny project taught me how small spaces can ignite massive creativity. In today’s post, I’m excited to share my 5 favorite Maharashtrian kitchen design ideas, inspired by real projects I’ve done and little tricks I’ve learned over the years. Small space really does mean big possibilities! I even mapped the first concept using a room planner to visualize the layout before any tools touched the walls.

Tip 1: Keep the Traditional Masala Rack

I always advise keeping a masala rack in open view — it becomes both a functional spice hub and a splash of color. A sturdy wooden rack fits perfectly with traditional Maharashtrian aesthetics. The only challenge? Dust. Make sure it’s positioned away from open windows or invest in sliding glass covers.

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Tip 2: Paati and Ukadiche Modak Station

In many homes, festival food prep zones are essential. Creating a small foldable “paati” (low seating platform) with storage underneath is a game changer. I once designed one over a concealed floor drawer; surprise — it worked brilliantly. For this layout, I relied heavily on a free floor plan creator to get the exact folding mechanism right without wasting precious inches.

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Tip 3: Copper Utensil Display

Copper pots and pans are iconic in Maharashtrian kitchens. Hanging them on a wall-mounted rail gives that warm, rustic glow while keeping them accessible. The downside? They need frequent polishing, but it’s worth it for the charm they bring every single day.

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Tip 4: Integrated Idli/Dhokla Steamer Shelf

I once had a client who baked more dhokla than she boiled rice. We gave her an integrated shelf above the counter dedicated to steaming equipment. This design kept her workflow smooth and saved cabinet space. Getting it right was all about proportions, which I perfected using a kitchen layout planner that simulated clearance space for easy lifting.

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Tip 5: Multi-Functional Breakfast Counter

Small flats in Pune often need the breakfast counter to double as a prep station. I love using butcher block tops here for durability. The only challenge is keeping it clutter-free since it’s so accessible — a hidden vertical storage helps a lot!

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FAQ

Q1: What is unique about Maharashtrian kitchen design?

Maharashtrian kitchens blend traditional cooking tools like paati and masala racks with modern modular elements, celebrating both heritage and efficiency.

Q2: Can these designs fit in small apartments?

Yes, many Maharashtrian homes already operate in compact spaces, so these ideas are perfect for urban apartments.

Q3: How do I maintain copper utensils?

Use a mix of lemon and salt to gently scrub, then rinse and dry thoroughly. Clean regularly to avoid tarnish.

Q4: Is it expensive to add a breakfast counter?

Not necessarily — laminated or butcher block tops are relatively affordable and durable options.

Q5: Where can I plan my kitchen layout online?

You can try tools like Coohom’s planners to visualize and adjust measurements before starting actual work.

Q6: How do I protect my masala rack from dust?

Use glass doors or position it away from high airflow areas.

Q7: Do Maharashtrian kitchens use open shelves?

Yes, especially for quick access to spices and utensils, though it requires regular cleaning.

Q8: Are foldable paati platforms sturdy?

When built with proper hinges and hardwood, they’re surprisingly durable — I’ve seen many last over a decade.