Brandi Henson 
Function and style needn’t be mutually exclusive when designing a small kitchen. Use these inventive solutions to craft an efficient cooking space with both practicality and flair.
Removing wall cabinets altogether will give a room an open feeling. Blogger @agi_at_59 made her space feel even larger by using floating open shelving to store dishware and pantry staples, keeping everything looking streamlined and organized.
U-shaped design
U-shaped kitchen designs are usually associated with larger spaces, but they’re just as effective in smaller kitchens. Their three runs of cabinetry creates the traditional work triangle between refrigerator, sink, and stove while still allowing plenty of counter space and storage.
However, U-shaped kitchens can appear boxy in smaller spaces. To break up this monotony and add visual interest and alleviate its monotony, add varied cabinetry materials or a combination of open shelving and closed cabinets; shelving can then be used to display decorative objects, cookware or everyday items for visual reduction as well as keeping frequently-needed items within reach.
Add a peninsula or island to a U-shaped kitchen layout in larger spaces to increase workspace, enhance interaction among cooks while cooking, and bridge the gap between your kitchen and living areas. It can even become an eye-catching focal point!
Floorplan
An effective kitchen floorplan is an integral component of interior design. It serves as the cornerstone for everything else you do in a small space, so take time to carefully consider your options. Foyr Neo makes it simple for you to see which layouts work well in your space with its 3D rendering tool.
No matter the size or layout of the space available to them, many small kitchens still make great culinary centers. Designer Lynn Kloythanomsup used faux brick walls in this space-saving idea by creating rustic charm while saving installation costs.
A double galley layout makes the most out of limited spaces, maximizing functionality without feeling boxy. Avoid U shapes that cut into corner cabinet space, as these take away valuable floor space in small kitchens. Open shelves are an effective way of displaying dishware and pantry necessities when their contents are neatly organized on display shelves.
Work triangle
When designing a new kitchen, the work triangle principle can help maximize its use. First conceived by industrial engineer Lillian Gilbreth in the 1940s, this rule helps eliminate obstacles and move around quickly throughout your space.
Kitchen work triangles should not exceed 13 feet apart and feature unimpeded traffic flow between them. Cabinets, tables, or any partial-height obstacles should not protrude more than 12 inches into the triangle while full-height obstacles such as tall cabinets should not come between any points in it at any point.
The kitchen work triangle rule works in most spaces, although it may prove challenging in kitchens with islands. To achieve optimal results, work with an authorized Dura Supreme kitchen designer to customize your layout and traffic flow according to how you live your life at home. Utilizing the kitchen work triangle will also keep areas that require frequent washing together to reduce cross-contamination risk.
Storage
Cluttered kitchens can be the antithesis of stylish. When cupboards become crammed with unruly utensils, impulse-buy blenders and endless food storage containers it may be time for an interior design-led refresh – but don’t fret; it won’t take weeks or hundreds of dollars either!
Intelligent storage ideas ensure cupboards and any items stored on worktops look tidy, while choosing muted colors ensure your cabinets remain fresh for years. If you have high ceilings, try opting for glazed units to break up long banks of cabinetry; their clear fronts make your room appear brighter while storing items out of sight.
Modern kitchen designs often include an island for extra workspace. Open shelving adds style while serving as breakfast bar seating. Make use of awkward spaces by creating a DIY plate rack holding platters and bowls, perfect for any corner space in the room.
