Small kitchen ideas: Turning your storage dilemmas around

If you’re searching for small kitchen ideas to transform a tiny space into a more workable modern one, then chances are making the most of storage – and creating more – is high on your agenda too. Here are some handy small kitchen ideas to maximise storage when space is tight: 

Maximise cabinetry: As far as small kitchen ideas go, this one sounds pretty obvious – more cabinetry equals more storage space, but there’s a little more to it than that. When designing the layout and cabinetry fit-out for small kitchens, think about the allocation of cupboards versus drawers and what you’re going to store there too (drawers are a handy way to create more storage space and often an easier to organise option too), plus don’t forget to add handy overhead cabinetry to any bare wall space.

Hooks and Shelving: These handy little items will make working in small kitchens that little bit easier. Some small kitchen ideas: add hooks and holders to inside under-bench cabinet doors or pantry doors; mix up open shelving on bare walls with overhead cabinetry; work floating shelving under overhead cabinetry too (just be wary not to over-clutter). And if there are too many small kitchen ideas swirling around in your head, don’t fret - just wait til after your kitchen is installed to look for the perfect places to install additional hanging space or shelving. They’re easy extras to seamlessly add to your new kitchen design. 

Expert ideas:  If you’re stuck for small kitchen ideas, after new advice or just at a stalemate as to what to do next then calling in the experts can be a good idea. A kitchen designer has years of experience working with various kitchen spaces (including small kitchens) and will have knowledge of the latest tricks and trends to inspire your space, plus help you turn around any storage dilemmas. 

Clever corners: When it comes to small kitchens, it’s a good idea to make the most of all your storage options – and that means not letting cabinetry corners go to waste. Our small kitchen ideas for maximising storage and making those hard-to-reach spots easier to access include: adding a lazy susan to corner cupboards, opting for corner drawers with a pull-out system or a pull-out space-saving system behind cabinet doors.  

Keep it slim: Small kitchen ideas need to extend to appliances too. Best for small kitchens are slimline fridges, ovens and other appliances too. While the over-sized oven and double fridge might be tempting, they’re unlikely to work well in a small kitchen space, and even if you do factor them in to your kitchen design chances are they’ll be taking up your precious bench and working space. 

+ Melbourne clients wanting advice on their next home renovation and more small kitchen ideas can contact The Makeover Group on 1300 768 464 or see www.themakeovergroup.com.au

Richard Armstrong is a Director of Melbourne firm The Makeover Group. He has more than a decade of home-renovation experience, including kitchen design and build. Richard has helped hundreds of clients create their dream kitchen space.