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Small Kitchen? Here’s How to Make It Look Bigger

Not everyone has the luxury of a spacious kitchen, but that doesn’t mean you can’t create the illusion of more space. At Better Kitchen Facelifts (BKF), we specialise in transforming kitchens of all sizes, helping homeowners maximise their space with smart design choices. If you have a compact kitchen, here are some expert tips to make it feel bigger, brighter, and more functional.

1. Choose Light Colours

Light colours naturally make a space feel larger by reflecting light instead of absorbing it. Opt for white, soft greys, or neutral tones for cabinetry, benchtops, and splashbacks.

2. Streamline Your Cabinetry

Minimalist cabinetry designs with flat-panel doors and handle-less options create a sleek, uninterrupted look that visually expands the space. Shaker-style doors can also work well, provided they have a light finish. Consider choosing cabinets with a vertical grain or subtle texture to draw the eye upward and create the illusion of height.

3. Streamline Benchtops

Thicker benchtops can make a kitchen look bulky. Instead, opt for a slim benchtop like 20mm thick stone or laminate. If you prefer a thicker benchtop, a 33mm max thickness is ideal for maintaining a balanced, lightweight appearance.

4. Opt for Open Shelving or Glass Cabinet Doors

Solid upper cabinets can sometimes make a small kitchen feel closed in. Instead, consider open shelving or glass-fronted doors, which provide storage while keeping the space visually light. Just be sure to keep items neatly arranged to maintain a clean, uncluttered look.

5. Maximise Natural and Artificial Light

Lighting plays a huge role in making a kitchen feel more spacious. If possible, let in as much natural light as you can by keeping window treatments minimal. For artificial lighting, install under-cabinet LED strips, recessed ceiling lights, and pendant lights to brighten up the space evenly.

6. Keep the Benchtops Clutter-Free

A clean, uncluttered benchtop makes a kitchen feel more open and spacious. Store small appliances in cabinets, use organisers for cooking essentials, and adopt a ‘less is more’ approach when styling your kitchen.

7. Opt for a Monochrome or Cohesive Colour Scheme

Too many colours or patterns can make a small kitchen feel chaotic. Stick to a cohesive palette with subtle variations in tone to create a seamless and spacious look. A monochrome scheme with variations of white, grey, or beige can help the kitchen feel more expansive.

8. Use Mirrors or Mirrored Splashbacks

Mirrors work wonders in small spaces, reflecting both light and the surrounding area to give the impression of depth. A mirrored splashback is a stylish and functional way to achieve this effect while making the kitchen feel twice as large.

Final Thoughts

A small kitchen doesn’t have to feel cramped. With the right design choices, you can create a space that feels bigger, brighter, and more practical. At Better Kitchen Facelifts, we specialise in transforming compact kitchens into highly functional and visually stunning spaces.