From studio flats in major cities like London and Birmingham to heritage-listed cottages in the countryside, Brits are no strangers to compact kitchens. Preparing meals in small spaces can be a challenge but with the right approach, it can also be a joy. Below, we cover some handy tips on how to make a small kitchen look bigger.
1. Embrace a bright and breezy colour palette
Bright colours can instantly change the look and feel of your kitchen. And yes, they can have a big impact on how spacious your room feels. Neutral colours like white, cream and champagne are wonderful if you’re looking for ideas on how to make a kitchen look bigger and brighter. And we’re not just talking about walls. White furniture can help open up your space and create a sense of airiness.
Painted in a crisp shade of white, the Florence kitchen dining furniture collection feels fresh and breezy. The range is inspired by classic Victorian homes and features clean lines and elegant silhouettes. Many people shy away from white as it has a reputation for showing dirt and grime, especially in high-traffic rooms like the kitchen.
We bust this myth by using premium-quality paint designed to withstand everyday wear and tear. We also finish every piece with a protective topcoat to ward off scuffs, scratches and stains.
2. Opt for light countertops
Light countertops are a tried and tested way to create the illusion of space in small kitchens. As well as benches, keep this tip in mind when choosing kitchen tables.
Opting for light woods such as acacia over dark timbers like stained oak, mahogany and walnut is an easy tip for how to make a kitchen look bigger.
3. Invest in furniture with hidden storage
From dining tables to breakfast bars, furniture with hidden storage is a clever way to make a small kitchen look bigger. For example, the Florence white kitchen island doesn’t just feature built-in drawers and cupboards. You’ll be delighted by hidden details like a pull-out cutting board and plank-style storage shelves.
Furniture with slide-out baskets is another tip for how to make a kitchen look bigger. The Florence sideboard with 2 drawers and 4 baskets is a great example. Instead of cluttering up open shelves, use wicker baskets to stash items out of sight. This is a great way to embrace “faux minimalism” and make your space feel larger.
4. Say goodbye to clutter
Clutter can quickly build up in the kitchen and have a big impact on the overall feel of your space. Dedicating a few hours to decluttering can be a fantastic way to get rid of defunct items and free up space.
We’re huge fans of the KonMarie method, which encourages you to keep items that spark joy and speak to the heart. Home organisation shows have gained serious traction over the past few years and offer great tips on how to make a kitchen look bigger. If you’re looking for inspiration, simply log into Netflix and check out shows like The Home Edit and The Minimalists.
5. Be intentional
In a small kitchen, you have to be intentional about your furniture and décor choices. For example, be sure to factor both form and function into your decision-making process.
With that in mind, dining tables with extendable leaves are a great way to streamline your space and make the most of every inch. Similarly, space-saving dining benches vs chairs that tuck neatly under the table are a great choice.
6. Add mirrors
Mirrors don’t traditionally belong in kitchens. However, if you’re wondering how to make a small kitchen look bigger, adding a mirror is one of the oldest and most effective tricks in the book.
In addition to mirrors, you can also incorporate reflective surfaces into your kitchen. We’re talking glass tiles, mirrored splashbacks, high-gloss cabinets and stainless steel appliances.
7. Follow the natural shape of the space
Galley kitchens are common in the UK and while they’re charming, they can be a headache to furnish. Wondering how to make a narrow kitchen look wider? Removing wall-hung cabinets and replacing them with open shelving is a great way to make a narrow kitchen feel more spacious. The horizontal lines will complement the natural shape of the space and make your kitchen feel wider.
Adding a freestanding white breakfast bar is another great way to open up a narrow kitchen. You’ll also unlock more counter space and benefit from extra storage.
Looking for more inspiration on how to make a small kitchen look bigger? Browse the full white Florence collection online and reimagine how your kitchen looks, feels and functions. Or browse 14 clever ways to unlock extra kitchen storage on our blog.
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