Small Kitchen Worktop Solutions and Design Tips

Small kitchens don’t have to be synonymous with cramped and uninspiring spaces. With the right design choices, materials, and a dash of creativity, you can make the most of every square inch!

The main issue that arises with a smaller kitchen is the lack of space for a functional worktop. Well, our kitchen worktops solutions and design tips will guarantee that and so much more. From the right material selection to space optimisation tricks, there are many ways to fit a smart worktop into your small kitchen.

Keep reading to find out how.

Material Selection

When it comes to designing a small kitchen, one of the most crucial decisions you’ll make is selecting the right worktop material. That’s true; certain materials can make your kitchen look even more cramped! Here are some aspects to factor into your choice.

• Durability and Maintenance: Every inch of space matters in a small kitchen. Go for materials that are known for their low maintenance and durability. The material should also be resistant to stains, scratches, and heat.
• Optimal Size and Thickness: Of course, the size and thickness of the worktop also make a major difference in a small kitchen. While thicker worktops may seem more luxurious, thinner worktops have a minimalistic finish. A thinner, smaller worktop may be the best option in a limited space.
• Recommended Materials: When it comes to smaller kitchens, we recommend compact laminate worktops. They’re durable, easy to maintain, and available in thin profiles. You can also go for stainless steel, creating the illusion of a bigger space with its reflective nature.

Space Optimization

Decorating a small kitchen is all about making smart storage and organisation choices. Here are a few space optimisation tips that’ll help you make the most of the limited space.

• Vertical Storage: When you’re short on square feet, vertical storage can be your best bet. In a small kitchen, wall-mounted floating shelves are a more open and airy pick than closed cabinets. You can also use pegs and hooks to hang pots, pans, utensils, and cutting boards.
• Under-Cabinet Solutions: Make the most of your lower cabinets with pull-out trays. Now, you won’t have to rummage through the back of the cabinet to find a pot. You can also install magnetic strips inside cabinet doors or on the splashback to store knives and utensils.
• Fold-Down Worktops: The worktop is one of the main components that take up space in a kitchen. Since you can’t eliminate them entirely, you can find options that can be temporarily folded away. Once it’s time to cook, you can pull them down for easy access!
• Mobile Kitchen Islands: Mobile kitchen islands are a space-saving marvel. These are perfect for homeowners who want an additional worktop but whose kitchen has no more space. Once you’re done using it, you can store it in a different part of your home.

Design Tips

The right design choices can make your small kitchen look and feel so much bigger. Keep these tips in mind when you’re short on culinary space.

• Light Color Schemes: A light colour scheme in your small kitchen can make a major difference. If your kitchen’s surfaces are glossy and bright, they’ll reflect light throughout the room and make it appear bigger. Consider glossy white cabinets or a polished quartz countertop.
• Open Shelving: While most kitchens have closed, wall-mounted cabinets, open shelving is better for those with limited space. It makes your cooking space appear more airy while making use of the vertical area. Plus, it gives you a chance to display your favourite dishware and cookware.
• Minimalistic Design: Keeping the space clutter-free is the best way to make it seem more open and airy. The key is to focus on clean lines, simplicity, and functionality. For example, you can add cabinets with concealed handles for hidden storage.
• Multi-Functional Furniture: In a small space, it’s not functional for a piece of furniture to just have one purpose. Invest in multi-functional furniture, such as drop-leaf tables and convertible islands, to maximise your small kitchen’s versatility.
• Clever Organization: Using clever organisation tactics is a foolproof way to maximise your limited space. Invest in storage solutions like lazy Susans, pull-out pantries, and drawer dividers. You’ll be surprised at how much space they help you save.
• Visual Illusions: While you can’t actually make your kitchen bigger, you can make it look that way. Mirrors and reflective surfaces can give the illusion of a bigger kitchen. You can even install mirrored splashbacks and glass cabinet doors.

Appliances and Fixtures

The right appliances and fixtures in a small kitchen can help maximise space and functionality. Keep these factors and tips in mind when making your choice.

• Compact and Integrated Appliances: Compact appliances are a must for small kitchens, such as a compact dishwasher or a counter-depth fridge. These options will fit into the corners of your small kitchen without compromising on quality.
• Single-Bowl Sink: A single-bowl sink is another practical choice for a limited space. You can opt for a deeper bowl to compensate for the lack of secondary sinks.
• Space-Saving Faucets: Faucets take up more space in your kitchen than you think. Opt for wall-mounted or pull-down faucets to save space and eliminate the need for additional faucets.
• Under-Counter Appliances: If your kitchen doesn’t have room for full-sized appliances, you can even invest in under-counter ones. You’ll find fridges, freezers, and wine coolers that fit under your counters and save tons of square footage.
• Wall-Mounted Pot Filler: If you’ve compromised on a smaller sink to fit into your limited space, you’ll probably find it hard for it to fit bigger pots. Invest in a wall-mounted pot filler above your stove top to avoid the trouble of holding a big pot under the faucet.

Conclusion

Believe it or not, you can have a small kitchen and still enjoy features like a functional worktop and extra storage. Now that you’ve read our solutions and tips, you can transform your cramped space into a culinary sanctuary. So, call up your contractor and share your ideas to let him make the most of your kitchen space!