Tiny-Kitchen Ideas for Tiny Living
Ideas on how to make the most of your small kitchen space.
The tiny-house movement is both a social and architectural movement promoting simplified living in small homes. With these tiny homes come tiny kitchens in need of practical furnishings which can be a little daunting when you don’t know where to start. Whether you follow this movement or merely have a cramped kitchenette, our tiny-kitchen ideas offer both space-saving hacks and stylish inspiration.
What Is a Kitchenette?
Before you can understand what a kitchenette is, you’ll need to know what it isn’t. Though sizes may vary, a full kitchen is a separate room that contains most, or all, of the standard kitchen appliances, including: a dishwasher, a full-size fridge, an oven, a stove, and a microwave. A tiny kitchen is more compact and usually opens up into a larger area like a living room. This reduced size necessitates space-conscious amenities and appliances to make the most of your kitchenette.
Tiny-Kitchen Ideas
Make It (Multi)functional
Saving space means taking stock of your kitchenware. Single-purpose appliances take up unnecessary space without being as economical as multipurpose ones. Ask yourself if you really need that ice cream maker or how often you use that panini press. In the name of efficiency, consider investing in practical, multifunctional items that will be used frequently. Here are some no-fail, multipurpose kitchen appliances that are sure to make the most of your space.
Dutch Oven:
Forget that 16-piece pot and pan set – a Dutch oven is the way to go. This multifunctional kitchen essential is capable of performing so many tricks that you’ll wonder what you ever did without it. Thanks to its even heat distribution, it’s perfect for braising meat, making soup, and even baking bread. Dutch ovens hold plenty of water for boiling hearty pasta portions, and because they’re so pretty, you can even serve your meal right out of the pot.
Air Fryer:
The air fryer is a great alternative to a full convection oven. It’s space-saving and cooks quicker than a regular oven. You can cook all kinds of foods in the air fryer, including frozen meat, homemade fries, vegetables, and even some smaller desserts like cookies and apple fritters. An air fryer is a great choice if you’re looking for fried food without all of the calories. Just a thin coating of oil is enough to perfectly crisp your favorite meals. The cooking basket has a nonstick coating which makes cleanup a breeze. If your small kitchen doesn’t include an oven, an air fryer is the perfect investment.
Multi-Cooker:
If you’re looking for a true all-in-one, the multi-cooker is for you. It may be small in size, but it can perform a multitude of functions while taking up very little real estate. A multi-cooker is your one-stop appliance for stovetop cooking. It can handle baking, steaming, roasting, or even sautéing. Whether simply cooking rice or preparing to sous vide fish, with a clever appliance like this, you won’t even need an oven.
Tip!
Invest in mini versions of your primary appliances to meet your needs without overcrowding your kitchenette. Opt for small-scale versions like an induction plate with two burners instead of four, a mini fridge, and (if need be) a washer-dryer combo. And if you simply can’t live without your dishwasher, the countertop model is ideal for you.
When considering small-kitchenette ideas, space is your biggest commodity, so make sure to use it wisely. Shelves make up for the lack of countertop space, so take advantage of any bare space on your walls.
Floating Shelves:
Gone are the days of bulky ledges. Free up floor space and add an updated element with floating shelves. With a range of stylish colors and designs to choose from (and hanging brackets that are invisible once mounted), a floating shelf is a modern storage option.
Tiered Shelves:
If one shelf is simply not enough, tiered shelves are a convenient compromise. The multiple racks are especially helpful if you’re battling to pare down your kitchen contents. With so many options to choose from, you can make your decision based on your kitchen aesthetic. Choose pipe-style frames for a more industrial look or geometric designs for a modernized feel.
Accent Shelves:
These are perfect if you like displaying your favorite items. Just because you’re saving on space doesn’t mean you can’t show off your beautiful china and crystal glassware. Family heirlooms don’t need to collect dust at the back of a cupboard when you have a gorgeous array of shelves to choose from.
You will want to avoid taking up more room than necessary in a small apartment kitchen. There are a lot more ways to take advantage of the vertical space in your kitchen than with shelves.
Pot Hangers:
Pot hangers are no longer only found in industrial kitchens. Any home cook worth their salt will know that pots are the biggest culprit when it comes to taking up room that could be used for something else. A pot hanger will stow them out of the way but keep them readily accessible, preventing the need to rummage through a cupboard next time you’re cooking. Whether you choose to hang it on a wall or overhead, you'll be simplifying your culinary experience. For a true farmhouse style, invest in copper pots and pans to display proudly.
Magnetic Knife Strips:
Instead of occupying drawer and counter space by storing your knife sets or knife blocks, easily free it up with the installation of a magnetic knife strip. Since knife strips provide open-air storage as opposed to an enclosed wooden knife block, magnetic knife strips are hygienic and easy to clean. Opt for a strip with a strong magnet to keep your knives in place and show off your cutting-edge collection while simplifying your cooking routine with the ease of access.
Spice Racks:
Store your seasoning more effectively with a mounted spice rack. Though there are many ways to organize your seasonings in drawers, mounting them instead will allow you to see the labels more clearly. Spice your food efficiently without needing to rummage around in search of your perfect condiment.
Mounted Glass Holders:
If you think we’re done with storage space, you’re mistaken! Glassware tends to be bulky, especially when you have more than one collection. Mounted glass holders not only take advantage of the space beneath your cupboards but also ensure your wine glasses are readily accessible for your convenience.
Visual clutter occurs when items of all different colors and sizes occupy surface space, making it feel messy. It’s possible to utilize your storage space well but still have a cluttered feel due to visual clutter. Restore order and visual balance with these tiny-kitchen ideas.
Baskets:
Decorative storage baskets come in two materials – wicker and wire. Wicker is great if you want to go more rustic. You aren’t just limited to one style. Wicker baskets come in different colors, shapes, and patterns, and some include hinged lids or cotton liners. Wire baskets are great when it comes to storing produce. There are many freestanding and tiered options that give you more storage while taking up the same amount of space as a single basket. Though they take up storage space, baskets help to organize loose and miscellaneous items which would otherwise create visual clutter.
Storage Jars:
Just because you’re saving space doesn’t mean that you can’t express your personal style. For an eye-catching effect, you can line your shelves with textured glass storage or quirky cookie jars. Fill the glasses with interesting and unusual foods, spices, or sweets to create a striking effect
Carts:
A kitchen cart is an ideal, multifunctional piece of furniture. It is similar to a kitchen island because it offers both counter space as well as shelf storage below. Kitchen islands are installed or mounted into the floor, making them a permanent feature. Carts are more versatile, whether wheeled or not, because they are lightweight and can be moved to wherever best suits your space. To clear up space, use the cart to display your storage jars and baskets in one place rather than on counters. Select wisely to create uniformity and harmony to keep from creating visual clutter.
Create additional space by installing cabinets.
Cabinets:
Cabinets provide additional storage space for crockery and appliances. To create the a spacious feeling, choose cabinets with glass panes which can emulate windows, creating an open feeling. Learn to stock them efficiently so they don't appear overpacked. Store the items that you use more frequently toward the front so that you aren’t awkwardly reaching over less-used items to get what you need.
Pantry Cabinets:
A pantry is a great addition if you are unable to install cabinets. Better still is the combination of a pantry cabinet and microwave shelf. Available in quaint colors and designs, this dual-functioning furniture will easily free up space in your kitchenette. Plus, they're not overly bulky!
When considering small apartment kitchen ideas, remember that furnishing a smaller area is cost-effective. A tiny kitchen allows you to spend just a little more on your choice finishes while remaining in budget. You can stretch your dollar without compromising on quality and allow your decor to create the feeling of space.
Bright Backsplash:
When painting your kitchenette, lighter colors will produce a feeling of openness and make it feel bigger. Installing a bright backsplash will give a dramatic effect. Tiles come in a myriad of colors and designs, allowing you to create a bold focal point.
Wallpaper:
Painting is easy but can be quite simplistic. If you don’t have ample wall space but want to make a statement with a more textured or patterned background, wallpaper is the way to go. Wallpaper can be easier on the pocket, allowing you to easily add a little pizzazz. Peel-and-stick wallpaper doesn’t require the same investment in painting tools, thus saving you money and time.
Under-Cabinet Lighting:
Bringing light into a space can be done with more than just ceiling fixtures. Under-cabinet lighting will chase away any shadows with a stylish flair. These are even more effective in a tiny kitchen to provide a more expansive feel. Under-cabinet lighting is a simple addition, particularly if you opt for a plug-in or battery-powered option. If you would like something a little more permanent, consider the hardwired option if your budget allows for it. Choose dimmable lights if you want the additional perk of setting different moods or easily changing up the look in your kitchen.
