5 Small kitchen ideas: how to transform a tiny space

Kitchens need personality just as much as any other room in your home, and that’s even truer for small kitchens – they have to feel inviting, as you’re likely to spend a couple of hours in them every day. When it comes to small kitchen ideas, displaying your dinnerware is a win-win. Not only does it add style, but it also saves cupboard space, which can be used for more functional pieces like Tupperware and smaller electrical appliances. Invest in dinnerware that’s easy on the eye, like this zebra terracotta bowl or hand-painted terracotta salad bowl, and stack them on a display shelf that’s easy to reach. If you’ve got a coffee machine, a shelf above with unusual malachite espresso cups, or murrine glasses, will make your morning coffee routine even easier.

Smart storage solutions are the easiest way to transform a small room, and a worthy small kitchen idea for anyone struggling for space. Keep kitchen loose ends out of your bottom drawer and put them in a trinket box on your windowsill instead – this Ottoman storage box will add colour to your room and free up drawer space for your more frequently used items. If you have the counter space, a colourful woven bread basket is another good option, especially for those who usually fill a valuable cupboard shelf with their carbs. For even smaller kitchens, pick counter storage containers that are stackable, to conserve space.

Rugs are an easy way to elongate your space, whether that’s lengthways or widthways. Pick your longest length, and lay a handmade monochrome rug in the same direction. That way, guests’ eyes will be drawn along its line, creating the illusion of a bigger space. Rugs are an affordable way to add colour too, and because it’s low down, it won’t risk making your space feel smaller – even a bold red Moroccan rug like this one can be an effective small kitchen idea in a more pared-back space.