How to Maximize Space in a Small Kitchen: 7 Ideas

We offer seven ideas to help you make more efficient use of your space.

Utilize the Window and Windowsill

You can store cookbooks, spices, jars of tea, and coffee on the windowsill—freeing up precious space in your cabinets. If you have houseplants on the window, hang them from the ceiling using planters, and use the freed space for a dish drying rack. Another solution is to install a glass shelf above the window, which can beautifully display glassware and other transparent dishes. This trick will impress your friends as a demonstration of your interior design talent.

Audit Your Drawers and Cabinets

Start by cleaning them out and discarding unnecessary items. Drawers are great for storing cutlery, jars of grains, and small kitchen tools (spatulas, whisks). If you're planning to update your kitchen furniture, look for units with multi-tiered pull-out drawers, making it easier to access pots and pantry items. If a full remodel isn’t in your plans, look for unused spaces. Many kitchens have a narrow, tall cabinet perfect for storing cutting boards, trays, or baking pans.

Use the Space Between Cabinets and the Ceiling

If your wall cabinets don’t extend to the ceiling, make use of the empty space above. Place a few decorative boxes there—those that came with appliances work well. Cover them with fabric or paper and decorate them to add a cheerful vibe to the kitchen. Use these boxes to store rarely used items, such as seasonal dishware, honey (if you buy it in bulk), or small appliances. This area can also serve as a shelf for books. If your kitchen design allows for textiles, add a curtain to conceal whatever you store there.

Install Hanging Baskets

If your cabinet shelves have enough height and you dislike stacking plates precariously, use hanging baskets to fill the voids. These are easy to attach and remove. They’re great for storing kitchen towels, mugs, cups, and saucers.

Make Use of the Stove When It’s Not in Use

If your kitchen is particularly small, you can create additional workspace on the stove. All you need are two large cutting boards to cover the burners and eight wine corks to serve as legs. Attach the corks with super glue and screws for stability. This DIY surface provides a practical area for prep work and can be partially removed if you need to use the stove.

Clear Countertops with Additional Shelves

Many people prefer to keep essentials within reach, resulting in cluttered countertops. This can make cooking challenging and the kitchen look chaotic (even if everything is neatly arranged). Slim, unobtrusive shelves installed above the counter, directly under the cabinets, can help. These shelves are perfect for organizing frequently used items, keeping them accessible but off the main workspace.

Add Storage Under the Dining Table

The space under your dining table often goes unused, becoming a haven for dust and forgotten items. If the table is in a corner and rarely moved, consider adding a small corner shelf underneath. To hide this storage area, cover the table with a large tablecloth.