Small Kitchen Renovations in Sydney

10 Ways to Create Space in a Small Kitchen

July 29, 2019

Part of planning any kitchen renovation is looking at how things like storage, space, functionality and natural light can be maximised. But for smaller kitchens, these design elements become crucial in designing a kitchen that makes the most of every inch of space you have.

A small kitchen doesn’t have to mean you’re limited in design choices – in fact, there are many ways to create a functional, open-plan kitchen in even the smallest of spaces.

Here are our favourite design tips that have a big impact on small kitchen renovations in Sydney.

To maximise storage

Elongate cabinets

One of the most underutilised areas in small kitchens is the space above upper cabinetry.

Opt for full-length cabinets that stretch up to the ceiling – creating more space, and drawing the eye upwards. A simple folding step ladder kept in the pantry or alongside the fridge ensures that the higher shelves are easily accessible.

Create clever shelves

Strategically-placed shelves can not only help to declutter your benchtops but can become a design feature, too.

See how areas above the sink, above or adjacent to windows, above the fridge or above your cooktop could be transformed into additional storage with open or floating shelves.

Find new corners

In a small kitchen, every corner is a wasted opportunity for storage. For those undertaking small kitchen renovations in Sydney, your designer can help to create custom joinery to make good use of even the most awkward of corners.

Shelves and cabinets both work well in corners, but feel free to get creative with hooks and hangers. Pull-out cupboards can help to make these spaces more accessible.

Make splashbacks functional

Splashbacks are a golden opportunity to squeeze some extra functionality and space into your small kitchen.

Create more storage in your kitchen by incorporating hooks, shelves or railing into your splashbacks. A pot-filler is another splashback add-on that’s gaining popularity in small kitchens, meaning that the sink doesn’t necessarily have to be close to the cooktop.

To create the illusion of space

Go for minimalism

A minimalist kitchen design gives you a clean and open look, reducing visual clutter. Avoid too many decorative features and a mixed colour palette, which can make your kitchen look busy and amplify claustrophobia.

Change your windows

While they don’t add any extra space for you to work with, bay windows can create a more spacious feel and increase both natural light and ventilation to your kitchen.

Alternatively, you could get outward opening windows like casement windows, or tilt and turn windows, which create a similar illusion of space.

Conceal your kitchen

Concealed kitchens are a popular choice for small kitchen renovations in Sydney, where you want to compartmentalise your kitchen and living spaces.

Concealed kitchens can be built into walls and revealed with sliding or folding doors. They can also be concealed behind feature walls or custom cabinetry.

Try a one-wall design

One-wall kitchen design is gaining popularity, especially with the rise of apartment living. Opting for an elongated workspace rather than increasing the kitchen’s footprint with an island bench, one-wall kitchens make open-plan living achievable even in smaller homes.

To declutter

Fold your tables

While not for everyone, fold-out tables are a space-saving solution for small kitchens. By incorporating a folding table into your kitchen joinery, you’ve got an instant bench to work on while cooking. This packs away once you’re done, leaving you with more space to move around.

Remove the pantry

If your kitchen feels cramped, make room for your pantry or storage space in a nearby room or hallway. This is another way to make use of dead space, without any inconvenience.

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