Renovating a small kitchen can be a daunting task, but the results are almost always worth the effort. Even minor upgrades like new cabinet hardware or a fresh coat of paint can make a big impact in a petite space. For major overhauls, there are smart design tricks to make the most of every square inch. Here are 11 inspiring before-and-after small kitchen remodels.
Open UpClosed-In Kitchens
Many older homes have small, closed-in kitchens that feel cramped and dated. One of the best things you can do is knock down walls to create an open floor plan. This allows natural light to flow in, makes the space feel larger and creates better traffic flow.
Take this galley kitchen for example. The wall between the kitchen and dining room was removed to open up the space. The peninsula was extended to create more prep space and additional cabinets were added. By knocking down the wall, the small kitchen was transformed into a bright, airy space. The open layout also improves visibility, making it easier to interact with family and guests while cooking.
Introduce Islandsto Add Storage and Seating
Islands are a great way to expand counter and storage space in a small kitchen. They also provide an area for casual dining and entertaining. Adding an island often requires some furniture rearrangement to allow enough room to walk around it. But gaining the extra function is worth it in most floor plans.
This compact kitchen was dramatically changed with the addition of a storage island. It provides a place to sit along with much needed counter area and cabinets. The white finish keeps it light and airy. Open shelving adds handy space to store dishes within easy reach. The result is a highly functional kitchen optimized for space.
Rethink Awkward Layouts
It’s not uncommon for older kitchens to have choppy layouts with dysfunctional work triangles. Rethinking the floor plan can drastically improve functionality. Evaluate the existing layout to identify problem areas causing bottlenecks or unclear workflow. Then look for ways to realign things.
Notice how the old layout in this kitchen had the stove on an island that interfered with the main workflow. By putting the range on the perimeter and adding a Peninsula, the work triangle was optimized. The peninsula serves as a useful surface for food prep and casual dining. Opening up the wall into the living area completed the transformation.
ReplaceCabinets for Clean, Updated Look
Over time, kitchen cabinets suffer wear and tear. Door hinges sag, drawers stick and finishes fade. Replacing cabinets can make a huge visual impact, especially in a small space. The key is selecting cabinetry to match your needs and style. Proper planning ensures you get the right mix of form and function.
These homeowners replaced their dated oak cabinets with crisp, white shaker style cabinets. They also had a matching white quartz countertop installed. The light color palette makes the petite kitchen feel fresh and bright. Glass cabinet doors on the upper cabinets keep it from feeling too closed in. The updated cabinets gave this small kitchen a total style reboot.
Add InterestingBacksplashes
Backsplashes protect the walls while also providing an opportunity to add visual interest through texture, shape and color. Keep in mind that bold patterns and large tiles can overwhelm in a small space. Mosaics, floating tiles and other small-scale looks are better suited to compact kitchens.
The limestone subway tile backsplash in this renovated kitchen adds tasteful texture and dimension. Paired with crisp white cabinetry, it enhances the clean, contemporary vibe. The backsplash tiles march all the way up to the ceiling, which makes the space feel larger. It’s a simple update that packs a lot of design punch.
InstallSpace-Saving Pullouts
Finding a place for everything, from pots and pans to cleaning supplies, can be a challenge in a small kitchen. One smart strategy is to incorporate pullout systems for base cabinets and drawers. They provide efficient use of every inch of existing storage space.
These clever pullout shelves offer easy access to items in the back that normally go unused. The shallow shelves are designed to hold an array of spices, oils and other essentials close at hand. Another set of pullouts in a base cabinet neatly organize pots, pans and baking sheets while maximizing vertical storage. Little upgrades like this optimize what’s already available.
Give Floorsa Facelift
Over time, kitchen floors take a beating and show significant wear. Replacing worn, outdated flooring is one of the easiest ways to revive a small kitchen. Consider materials that are durable, easy to clean and stylish like luxury vinyl plank, quartzite and porcelain tile.
The old linoleum in this dated kitchen made it feel dark and unappealing. By installing natural wood-look vinyl plank floors, it became cleaner and more inviting. The light planks help expand the space visually. They also provide cushioned comfort underfoot. It was a simple, budget-friendly flooring update with maximum impact.
Embrace Two-Tone Kitchens
Painting upper and lower cabinets in different colors is a big trend in kitchen design. It provides visual separation that makes the space appear larger. The color contrast also adds character and dimension. Just take care that the color combo doesn’t make the petite space too busy.
Black lower cabinets paired with white uppers is a classic two-tone look that works beautifully in small kitchens. It keeps the space light and airy up top while grounding it with the deeper color below. Accent colors like navy blue on the island add character without overwhelming the compact footprint.
Carve Out A Mini-Bar Area
For a small kitchen doing double duty as an entertainment space, carving out an area for a mini-bar is a smart move. This allows you to store and serve beverages and glassware without cluttering up the main kitchen zone.
This narrow galley kitchen got a mini-bar for entertaining, tucked beside the casual dining area. Open shelving provides easy access to bottles and barware. Below, a compact wine fridge and cabinet for glasses and mixers round out the functional setup. The mini-bar allows drinks to be prepared and served without disturbing the central work zone.
Concentrateon Kitchen Essentials
When renovating a tiny kitchen, focus on including essential elements like ample storage, durable countertops and high-function appliances. Resist temptations to overcrowd with non-essential decor or gadgets. Streamlining the design avoids clutter and creates a tidy, easy-to-navigate space.
This revamped kitchen exemplifies a fuss-free, form-follows-function approach. Cabinets provide abundant storage options. The countertops offer durable quartz surfaces to withstand heavy usage. Full-size stainless appliances deliver performance without consuming extra inches. The absence of unnecessary elements keeps the petite space feeling open and uncluttered.
Maximize VerticalStorage
In small kitchens, expanding storage options vertically utilizing walls, tall cabinets and shelving is key. This technique keeps items off the counters yet within easy reach. Custom built-ins work beautifully to take advantage of all the available height.
This tiny galley kitchen overcame its confined footprint with vertical storage solutions. Open shelving above the sink provides a spot for pretty dish displays. Custom cabinets make use of vertical real estate to house everything else needed close at hand. The white palette enhanced by natural wood accents keeps it light. Utilizing height compensates for the kitchen’s compact linear layout.
Improve Lightingfor Brighter Ambiance
Many outdated small kitchens suffer from poor overhead lighting that casts unflattering shadows and feels uninviting. Replacing old fixtures with adequate task lighting makes a big difference. Other enhancements like undercabinet lighting and natural light sources greatly improve ambiance.
Harsh fluorescent lighting left this small kitchen feeling more like an office. The updated lighting plan incorporated task lighting, undercabinet lighting and accent pendants over the peninsula. Opening the wall into the living area allowed lovely natural light to flood in. The combination resulted in a bright, welcoming ambiance perfect for enjoying morning coffee or chatting over meal prep.
Frequently Asked Questions About Small Kitchen Remodels
What is the average cost to remodel a small kitchen?
The average cost to remodel a small kitchen is $15,000 to $35,000, depending on factors like the scope of work and choices in finishes. Smaller cosmetic updates may cost as little as $5,000.
How do you optimize storage in a small kitchen?
Maximize vertical storage with wall cabinets, tall pantry units and open shelving. Add pull-outs and other organizational systems inside existing cabinets. Install multi-tiered countertop displays for fruits and spices. Use wall space for knife strips, pot racks and utility hooks.
What colors make a small kitchen look bigger?
Light, bright colors like white, soft yellow and pale blue make small kitchens look open and airy. Also utilize reflective surfaces like glass tiles or polished stone. Darker colors tend to close a space in, so use them sparingly.
Should small kitchens have an island?
Islands are extremely functional, but be sure you have enough clearance. Allow for at least 42 inches of circulation space around the island perimeter. An island should complement the workflow rather than obstruct it.
What flooring works best in small kitchens?
Durable and low-maintenance options like luxury vinyl plank, porcelain tile and quartzite work beautifully. Small-scale patterns enlarge the space. Glossy surfaces reflect light to brighten the room. Soft woods can also warm up a petite kitchen.
What backsplash tiles are best for small kitchens?
Small tile shapes like mosaics, penneys and mini-hexagons are ideal. Stick with light colors to keep the space airy. To expand a tight kitchen, run the backsplash to the ceiling. Avoid strong patterns that could overwhelm.
Should I open up the wall to my small kitchen?
Knocking down the wall between the kitchen and an adjoining room helps small kitchens feel more open and spacious. Be sure to address any structural considerations. Also evaluate how losing separation affects functionality.
What small appliances are essential for compact kitchens?
A standard refrigerator, dishwasher and stove or cooktop are must-haves. Consider a combo microwave/convection oven rather than a full-size oven to save space. An air fryer, instant pot and toaster oven provide multifunctional options.
How important is lighting in a small kitchen remodel?
Proper lighting is extremely important for both aesthetics and function. Ensure adequate task lighting over key work areas using pendants or recessed lights. Undercabinet lighting illuminates the counters beautifully.
Should I get rid of upper cabinets to open up a small kitchen?
Losing too much storage can make a compact kitchen dysfunctional. Consider reducing upper cabinet depth or incorporating glass-front uppers if the space feels too closed in. Open shelving also adds airiness while retaining space for dishes.
Conclusion
Small kitchens hold big potential thanks to smart design adaptations. Knocking down walls, adding islands and maximizing vertical storage are proven strategies. Clever upgrades like pull-outs, two-tone cabinetry and backsplashes also pack a lot of style into a modest footprint. With proper planning and inventive solutions, you can create a small kitchen that lives far beyond its size. The renovated spaces shared here reveal how to craft an efficient, beautiful kitchen no matter the square footage.