February 14, 2022

We can all agree that clutter and chaos are two things you do not want in your kitchen. With Google searches of “kitchen space hacks” increasing 100% in the past 12 months, utilizing small spaces is becoming increasingly popular.

At Wren Kitchens, here are our go-to tips for making the most out of a small kitchen space.

Prioritize Appliances 

There are many different appliances to choose from, so it’s important to prioritize and make a decision about what your clients really need. Many appliances occupy a sizable area, so if they are wanting a big fridge with lots of storage space, they might have to sacrifice room elsewhere in their kitchen.

Alternatively, consider built-in appliances, as they are a great way of saving space while keeping the kitchen looking sophisticated and stylish.

Don’t Create Clutter

Storage is your best friend when it comes to controlling clutter. To maximize space, you want to minimize mess – having a well-organized storage system can help with this. Pull-out shelves and cutlery inserts are both ways in which you can control clutter in your clients’ kitchens. They are more than worth the investment when perfecting the space in a cramped kitchen.

Keep the Color Scheme Simple

Another great way of enhancing the kitchen space is to control the color scheme. Keep it simple and use color palettes such as bright whites, soft grays and blush nudes. Neutral colors such as these naturally reflect the light and make even the smallest rooms feel bigger. When choosing the color scheme, make sure it complements both the countertops and appliances, and avoid clashes.

Don’t Skimp on Lighting

Similar to the effect of color on a kitchen, lighting can have a huge impact on the room. Try to illuminate the kitchen the best you can, as the more light, the bigger the space will feel. There are plenty of different lighting options to choose from to enhance the space, including atmospheric feature lighting and integrated task lighting.

Make a Statement

The devils is in the details! When designing a kitchen, why not choose a strongly patterned floor? It adds the “wow” factor to the design as well as an impact on how big the room feels. If you’re looking for something more subtle, there are endless amounts of statement accessories and small appliances to work with, like eye-catching colored toasters or even a retro-inspired radio. These will add heaps of personality to the kitchen when done right.

Don’t Waste Space

If space is something your client is lacking, it goes without saying…don’t waste it! Being creative with your design can do huge favors when it comes to making more space. For example, if there are corners on the kitchen countertops that aren’t being used, why not turn them into storage space?

It’s also key to use the walls wisely. Consider hanging crockery pieces on the wall, which can create a stylish feature in the kitchen – and it’s great for saving space.

—By Darren Watts, design director, Wren Kitchens