small kitchen design ideas

Do you want to make your kitchen work for you, inside and out? When designing small, you can still think big to maximise tighter areas and get the most out of your kitchen space!  Here are a few short and sweet tips from this small wonder of a kitchen…

All access storage

It’s often what’s on the inside that counts, so incorporating internal storage is a savvy way to turn the organisation up a notch!  From corner rotating baskets through to pantry pullout baskets and cutlery inserts for drawers, you can give everything its own place while making those hard to reach everyday items completely accessible. Keep your benchtops (and stress levels) clutter free – your benchtop space is important real estate in your kitchen, especially in a smaller one, so you don’t want it to go to waste!

Two in one

Using a modular or cut to measure benchtop as a table extension for a dining or study nook is a great way to maximise your space, and create zones and layers in your kitchen. And, what’s better, mixing timber-look surfaces (such as our premium laminate cashew nut benchtop) into a design also adds texture, warmth and flair.  It’s a win win!   

Keep it light

When it comes to your colour scheme, keeping it light and bright is a good way to make a space feel bigger and more open.  You can create a soft colour pallet with dusty grey white pepper doors and panels, while still bringing in visual interest thanks to marble and stone-look benchtops. Sweet and simple.

Check out our inspiration gallery for more kitchen designs and spaces to spark your inspiration! s

ideas on designing a small kitchen

Designing a small kitchen can be challenging, as it requires careful planning and consideration of limited space. Not to mention, it's essential to stick to a budget while also reflecting your personal style and preferences. This is why our team at kaboodle is here to help share some ideas so you can maximise every square inch of your kitchen, no matter how small it may be. 

• Use a monochromatic colour scheme:
  A consistent colour palette helps make the space feel cohesive and less cluttered. Choose light or bright colours to create a sense of openness.

• Consider a galley layout:
  A galley layout can be a great space-saving solution in a small kitchen. It involves two parallel countertops with a walkway in between, maximising the use of the available space.

• Choose multi-functional pieces:
  Look for furniture or appliances that can serve multiple purposes, such as an island with built-in storage or a microwave that doubles as a convection oven.

• Lighting:
  Lighting is crucial in a small kitchen as it can help to create the illusion of more space. Installing under-cabinet lighting can brighten up the work area and make it easier to see what you're doing. Pendant lights above the kitchen island or sink can also be a stylish and practical addition.

• Maximise storage:
  Utilise all available space with clever storage solutions, such as pull-out pantry shelves or built-in spice racks. Hang pots and pans from a ceiling-mounted rack to free up cabinet space. 

• Embrace open shelving:
  Open shelves can make a small kitchen feel more open and airy. Use them to display your favourite dishes, glasses, or cookbooks.

get started on your small kitchen design today

Creating a functional and stylish small kitchen is possible with the right planning and tools. At kaboodle, we're here to help you turn your small kitchen into a beautiful and efficient space with our range of flat pack kitchen products. Our range includes cabinets, handles, door panels, customised open shelves and more, all designed to help you maximise every inch of your kitchen. Whether you're a DIY enthusiast or new to home improvement, we have the tools and resources you need to achieve professional-quality results. Browse our website or visit Bunnings Warehouse to find the perfect small kitchen solutions for your home.

Small kitchen design FAQs

What is the best layout for a small kitchen?

Cooking and cleaning in a small kitchen can sometimes be frustrating, but when you redesign your kitchen with kaboodle, you’re able to transform it into a functional space that works for the whole family. Some of the most popular kitchen layouts for small homes include the single-wall, galley or L-shaped kitchen, but which you choose will likely depend on how your home is set up.

How do I layout my small kitchen?

When planning a small kitchen layout think sensible. With limited space, your main objective is to maximise the functionality of the kitchen and eliminate dead, unused space. High ceilings? Consider floor to ceiling cabinets. Space for a pantry? Double its size for double the storage. With kaboodle, you can customise your kitchen to suit the unique needs of your family. If you're struggling to visualise how your new kitchen will look, use our 3D planner or check out our inspiration gallery for more ideas.

What color cabinets are best for a small kitchen?

If you have a small kitchen, lighter colour cabinets are going to help reflect light in the space, making it appear larger. While white cabinets are the most popular choice for small kitchens, they are by no means the only option. We recommend steering clear of black and navy cabinets, as they can often shrink the space, however light greys and neutral browns and creams are fair game. Before selecting the colour of your cabinets, consider the accent colours you will use around the space as this can make your decision a little easier.

What are the advantages of having a small kitchen?

With small kitchens, there are some clear advantages, including:

• The chance to create a more efficient design that can be accessed by simply turning around instead of walking several metres.

• Less expense on the overall cost for building materials, as the quantities are smaller. 

• The ability to DIY, and with kaboodle flat packs, you are able to easily purchase the materials you need for your kitchen remodel.