Big impact small kitchen design ideas

Not all Christchurch homes feature expansive open-plan spaces for modern kitchen designs and social areas. If your kitchen is small and you’re looking to renovate but aren’t sure how to plan the design, don’t worry. Even with a compact footprint, your kitchen can be transformed into a stylish and highly functional space. At Finesse Joinery, we believe that size doesn’t matter—what matters is smart, efficient design.

Why does kitchen design matter so much in small kitchens?

Designing a kitchen, regardless of its size, is a complex task. Kitchens are typically more intricate than other rooms due to the need to integrate plumbing, gas, and electricity while also considering layout, fixtures, appliances, and storage. For small kitchens, these complexities are amplified. A poorly designed kitchen can significantly restrict your enjoyment and functionality of the space, making it crucial to get the design right the first time.

A well-thought-out kitchen design not only maximizes space but also enhances the aesthetic appeal and functionality of the kitchen. This is particularly important in small kitchens where every inch counts. A good design can make a small kitchen feel larger, more open, and more inviting.

Overcoming Small Kitchen Challenges: Tips from Finesse Joinery’s Kitchen Design Christchurch Team

1. Opt for Built-In Appliances

Integrated appliances are a fantastic solution for making small kitchens look larger. By hiding appliances behind custom cabinets, you create a streamlined look that helps maintain a sense of space. The style of the cabinet doors dictates the overall aesthetic, allowing integrated appliances to work seamlessly in both traditional and modern kitchen designs.



For example, a kitchen with white cabinets and a stainless steel refrigerator can look sleek and cohesive when the refrigerator is hidden behind a cabinet door. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also creates a more open and uncluttered look, which is essential for small kitchens.

2. Let There Be Light

Lighting plays a crucial role in making small kitchens feel bigger. Maximizing natural light is the best way to create a bright and open atmosphere. Arrange your kitchen layout to take full advantage of any windows or skylights.

If natural light is limited, smart kitchen lighting design can achieve a similar effect. Use spotlights rather than low-hanging pendant lights to minimize visual interruption. Install lights under cabinets to illuminate worktops for task lighting while making them dimmable for ambiance. This layered lighting approach ensures that the kitchen is well-lit for various activities, enhancing both functionality and aesthetics.

3. Open Shelves and Glass Bespoke Cabinets

While closed cabinets and pantry cupboards are excellent for maintaining a tidy kitchen, they can sometimes make small kitchens feel even smaller. In a compact kitchen, the goal is to create a bright and open space.

To achieve this, use closed cabinets for lower cupboards and opt for open shelves or glass-fronted cabinets for higher storage. This design combination adds a touch of luxury with different materials and light-reflecting options, which help brighten even the darkest corners. Open shelves provide easy access to frequently used items, while glass-fronted cabinets give a sense of depth and openness.