28 Things You Should Never Put In A Small Kitchen, According To Interior Design Professionals
Step into the delightful chaos of small kitchen living—where storage is sacred, and one wrong move can turn dinner into disaster. Think tight quarters where every drawer matters and counter space is more precious than gold.
In this bite-sized battleground, some items just don’t make the cut. We’re talking space-hogging appliances, décor choices that baffle, and tools better suited for a food truck than your 6×6 cook zone.
Get ready to laugh, cringe, and possibly declutter as we dive into 28 things that have no business in your tiny kitchen kingdom.
1. Oversized Refrigerators
Ever tried squeezing a grand piano into a broom closet? That’s the oversized refrigerator in a small kitchen for you! While it might seem tempting to have that massive fridge to store your grocery hauls, it ends up devouring precious space.
A petite kitchen demands nimble solutions, and a gigantic fridge isn’t one of them.
Opt for streamlined or under-counter models that keep your kitchen looking spacious and stylish. Remember, less is more, and a smaller fridge can still serve you with icy cold treats without elbowing out your cooking space.
Designers insist that in the realm of compact kitchens, size matters, and bigger isn’t always better. A sleek appliance can be a functional piece of art in your cooking corner!
2. Bulky Kitchen Islands
Ah, the kitchen island, a symbol of modern culinary luxury. But in tiny kitchens, it’s like bringing a sumo wrestler to a ballet recital. Bulky islands restrict movement, making cooking and socializing awkward. Their grandeur is undeniable but misplaced in such snug spaces.
Instead, consider a mobile or foldable island that can tuck away or be moved when not in use. These flexible options maintain the illusion of space while still providing a prep area.
So, wave goodbye to those cumbersome islands and welcome a more fluid and functional kitchen layout that dances to the rhythm of your culinary artistry. It’s about finding that perfect balance!
3. Large Dining Tables
Imagine hosting a dinner party where guests have no place to sit because the dining table eats up the entire kitchen! Large dining tables, while offering ample seating, are the arch-nemeses of small kitchens. They make the space feel congested, turning meal times into a seating musical chair.
For a more harmonious vibe, opt for extendable or drop-leaf tables that adjust to your needs. These tables provide flexibility without overwhelming the room.
Remember, in a small kitchen, it’s all about maximizing space and comfort. A table that adapts to your lifestyle is the smarter, more space-savvy choice!
4. Excessive Wall Cabinets
Who knew that walls could feel claustrophobic too? Excessive wall cabinets can transform your cozy kitchen into a claustrophobic cavern. While storage is essential, too many cabinets can eat up visual space, leaving the room feeling heavy and closed in.
Instead, embrace open shelving or glass-front cabinets to create an airy, open feel. These transparent solutions offer storage while keeping things light and visually appealing.
It’s a delicate dance between form and function, but by reducing the cabinet chaos, you can create a breezy, inviting kitchen space that feels as vast as your culinary ambitions!
5. Dark Paint Colors
Dark and mysterious might work for a thriller novel, but in a small kitchen, it spells disaster. Deep colors absorb light, shrinking the space visually and making it feel boxed in. Unless you’re aiming for a cave-like experience, it’s best to steer clear of moody hues.
Instead, opt for light, bright colors that reflect light and open up the room. These shades bring a sense of airiness and brightness, making your kitchen feel larger and more welcoming.
So, let there be light! In the realm of small kitchens, brightness is your best friend, turning cramped into cozy with just a brushstroke.
6. Heavy Window Treatments
Imagine blocking a scenic view with a massive billboard – that’s what heavy window treatments do to small kitchens. Heavy drapes and elaborate curtains block natural light and can make a space feel dim and closed off, stealing away the sense of openness.
Opt for sheer curtains or blinds that let in the sunlight while providing privacy. These lighter options keep the atmosphere bright and airy without sacrificing style.
A well-lit kitchen is a happy kitchen, so let the sunshine in and watch your small space transform into a cheerful, inviting hub for culinary creativity.
7. Too Many Appliances
Ever felt like you’re navigating an obstacle course in your own kitchen? That’s the magic of too many appliances on your countertop. While gadgets are tempting for their convenience, they quickly eat up precious space, leaving you nowhere to chop or whisk.
Instead, prioritize multi-use devices or stow away items that aren’t used daily. This approach creates a tidy, efficient workspace where you can unleash your culinary skills without dodging blenders and toasters.
In small kitchens, it’s the art of minimalism that wins the day. By curating your collection, you’ll keep your counters clear and your mind focused on cooking creativity.
8. Decorative Clutter
Decorations are the spices of a home, but too much in a small kitchen can lead to chaos rather than charm. Decorative clutter turns your culinary space into a visual jumble, leaving little room for function.
Choose a few statement pieces or functional decor that complements the kitchen’s style without overwhelming it. The key is to create balance and harmony, allowing both beauty and utility to coexist.
In the symphony of a small kitchen, let every element play its part without overpowering the melody. A little restraint goes a long way in crafting a space that’s both picturesque and practical.
9. Garish Lighting Fixtures
Ever felt like an extra in a Broadway show while making breakfast? That’s what happens when garish lighting fixtures take center stage in a small kitchen. Oversized or overly ornate lights can overwhelm the space, turning it into a theatrical display rather than a functional area.
Opt for recessed lighting or sleek pendants that offer excellent illumination without stealing the spotlight. These subtle solutions provide the perfect glow while keeping the focus on your culinary creations.
Remember, in a cozy kitchen, lighting should enhance, not overshadow. It’s all about illuminating your space with grace and elegance, not razzle-dazzle!
10. Massive Dish Racks
Imagine trying to park a bus in a bicycle lane – that’s a massive dish rack in a small kitchen for you! While they promise to hold every plate and bowl, they monopolize counter space, leaving little room for actual cooking.
Choose compact or foldable dish racks that can be tucked away when not in use. These space-saving solutions ensure your kitchen remains functional and clutter-free.
Big isn’t always better in the compact kitchen game. By opting for efficient, space-savvy dish racks, you’ll keep your kitchen as neat and nimble as a master chef’s domain.
11. Outdated Appliances
Imagine cooking with relics from the past – outdated appliances in a small kitchen are like dinosaurs at a tech convention. They’re often bulky and inefficient, gobbling up space while underperforming.
Instead, invest in modern, energy-efficient appliances that offer the same function in a more compact form. Sleek designs and updated technology mean you can enjoy all the benefits without sacrificing space.
In the ever-evolving world of kitchen gadgets, staying current ensures your culinary haven stays trendy and functional. Out with the old, in with the new – your small kitchen deserves nothing less!
12. Non-Functional Decor
Decor that doesn’t do double duty is like a chocolate teapot – delightful but impractical. In a small kitchen, non-functional decor occupies precious real estate, leaving less room for essential activities.
Instead, focus on decor that enhances functionality, like magnetic spice racks or stylish utensil holders. These items not only beautify your space but also serve a purpose, maintaining efficiency.
Functionality is the key to harmony in a compact kitchen. By choosing decor that works as hard as you do, you’ll create a space that’s as productive as it is pleasing to the eye.
13. Oversized Cookware
Giant pots and pans in a small kitchen are akin to elephants in a dollhouse. They consume space and make storage a juggling act. While tempting for those grand feasts, they’re unnecessary for day-to-day meals.
Consider investing in multi-functional cookware that’s stackable or space-saving. This approach keeps your cabinets from overflowing and your counters clear for action.
In the world of compact kitchens, it’s about cooking smarter, not bigger. Streamlined cookware solutions make for a tidy, organized space where creativity can flow as freely as your culinary ambitions.
14. Excessive Cutlery
Ever played a game of ‘Find the Fork’ in your own kitchen? That’s the joy of excessive cutlery. While having options is nice, too much flatware creates clutter, making it hard to find what you need.
Pare down to the essentials, keeping only what you use regularly. A tidy drawer with organized cutlery is a joy to use and a breeze to maintain.
In small kitchens, simplicity reigns supreme. By decluttering your utensil collection, you ensure efficiency and ease, letting you whip up meals without the hunt for that elusive spatula.
15. Gigantic Spice Racks
Picture a library of spices towering over your kitchen – sounds dreamy? Not in a small kitchen! Gigantic spice racks become space hogs, leaving little room for other essentials.
Opt for compact spice storage that can fit in a drawer or a slim wall-mounted rack. These solutions keep your spices accessible without overwhelming the space.
Smart storage is key in a petite kitchen. By downsizing your spice display, you maintain a tidy, uncluttered environment that’s as flavorful as the dishes you create.
16. Obtrusive Pot Racks
Ceiling-mounted pot racks might be a chef’s dream, but in small kitchens, they’re a spatial nightmare. They hang overhead, cluttering the visual field and making the room feel cramped.
Consider wall-mounted racks or cabinet organizers that utilize space without intruding on the room’s openness. These alternatives keep your pots handy while preserving the kitchen’s aesthetic.
In cramped quarters, every inch matters. By choosing unobtrusive storage solutions, you ensure your kitchen remains as open and inviting as it is functional.
17. Large Trash Cans
Imagine fitting a king-size bed into a studio apartment – that’s a large trash can in a small kitchen! They dominate floor space, making it hard to maneuver.
Opt for compact, under-sink trash solutions or slim bins that fit snugly in a corner. These choices keep your kitchen organized without sacrificing usability.
In small spaces, efficiency is key. By choosing the right-sized waste bins, you maintain a clean, clutter-free environment that’s ready for any culinary adventure.
18. Massive Coffee Makers
Ah, the allure of a café-grade coffee maker! Yet in a small kitchen, it’s the barista that overstays its welcome. These machines can monopolize counter space, leaving little room for prepping meals.
Consider compact or multi-functional coffee makers that fit neatly into your kitchen’s scheme. These alternatives allow you to enjoy your morning brew without compromising your workspace.
In the battle for counter space, size matters. By opting for smarter, smaller coffee solutions, you keep your kitchen efficient and ready for all culinary endeavors.
19. Elaborate Backsplashes
An elaborate backsplash can be a showstopper, but in a small kitchen, it might stop the show altogether. Busy designs draw the eye and can make the room feel chaotic and smaller than it is.
Choose simple, elegant tiles that harmonize with the kitchen’s aesthetic, providing a stylish yet understated backdrop. This approach keeps the focus on the overall design rather than a single element.
Elegance thrives in moderation. By selecting a subtle backsplash, you ensure your small kitchen remains cohesive and inviting, a place where style and function meet seamlessly.
20. Inappropriate Flooring
Heavy, inappropriate flooring in a small kitchen can weigh the space down, making it feel enclosed and smaller than it is. These choices can darken the room and detract from its openness.
Opt for light, durable materials that reflect light and enhance the room’s spaciousness. These choices create a warm, inviting atmosphere where culinary magic can unfold.
Flooring in a compact kitchen should enhance, not hinder. By choosing wisely, you keep the space open and welcoming, ready to support all your cooking adventures.
21. Oversized Rugs
Oversized rugs in a small kitchen are like wearing clown shoes to a ballet – they overwhelm the space and make it feel smaller. They can dominate the room, drawing attention away from essential elements.
Opt for smaller, low-profile rugs that define areas without encroaching on them. This choice keeps the kitchen cozy without sacrificing style.
In the world of compact kitchens, it’s the details that matter. By choosing appropriately sized rugs, you maintain an open, inviting environment where style and function harmoniously coexist.
22. Overly Intricate Decor
Intricate decor can be enchanting, but in a small kitchen, it often translates to clutter. These details can overwhelm the space, making it feel busy and chaotic instead of cozy and inviting.
Choose simple, elegant decor that complements the kitchen’s design without overpowering it. This approach keeps the focus on functionality and aesthetics.
In small spaces, less is often more. By simplifying decor, you ensure your kitchen remains a serene, stylish sanctuary that inspires culinary creativity.
23. Massive Wine Racks
A massive wine rack in a small kitchen might seem luxurious, but it’s akin to bringing a wine cellar into a closet. It occupies valuable wall space, leaving less room for essentials.
Opt for compact, wall-mounted racks or under-cabinet solutions that store your bottles without monopolizing space. These choices keep the kitchen functional and accessible.
The art of wine storage in small kitchens is all about balance. By choosing smart solutions, you maintain a space that’s as ready for entertaining as it is for everyday cooking.
24. Large Wall Clocks
A large wall clock can be a statement piece, but in a small kitchen, it’s more like a loud shout in a whispering gallery. It takes over the wall, reducing space for other decor.
Choose smaller, stylish clocks that blend with your kitchen’s theme. These options keep the focus on functionality while adding a touch of elegance.
In the symphony of small kitchen decor, every note matters. By selecting the right-sized clock, you create a harmonious environment where time and style keep perfect rhythm.
25. Overstuffed Pantries
An overstuffed pantry in a small kitchen is like a game of Tetris gone wrong. It’s hard to find what you need, leading to frustration and food waste.
Streamline your pantry by keeping inventory in check and storing items in transparent, stackable containers. This approach ensures you know what you have and need.
In small kitchens, organization is key. By maintaining a tidy pantry, you create an efficient space that supports your culinary efforts without the chaos of overstocked shelves.
26. Excessive Open Shelving
Open shelving can showcase your wares, but too much of it in a small kitchen can lead to chaos. Clutter becomes a visual burden, making the space feel disorganized and busy.
Balance is key – use open shelves sparingly to display select items while keeping the overall look cohesive and tidy. This approach maintains functionality without overwhelming the space.
In small kitchens, every shelf tells a story. By curating your display, you keep the narrative clear and engaging, ensuring your kitchen remains both stylish and practical.
27. Bulky Corner Cabinets
Bulky corner cabinets might seem like a practical storage solution, but in a small kitchen, they can become a burden. These cabinets often take up significant space, making the kitchen feel cramped. Opt for sleeker, more streamlined designs that enhance the room’s openness.
In small kitchens, every inch matters. Corner cabinets with excessive depth can hinder movement and make the area feel boxed in. Prioritize open or floating shelves to minimize visual clutter.
Consider using the space for a cozy breakfast nook or a compact pantry. This approach adds both functionality and charm without overpowering the area.
28. Intricate Ceiling Fixtures
Intricate ceiling fixtures might add elegance, but in a small kitchen, they often dominate the space. Their complexity can overwhelm the room’s simplicity, making it feel smaller than it is. Choose minimalist lighting that complements the kitchen’s scale and ambiance.
Opting for subtle fixtures helps maintain a clean, airy feel. Intricate designs can cast shadows and create visual noise, detracting from the kitchen’s functionality.
To enhance lighting without clutter, consider recessed lights or pendant lamps. These options offer style and practicality, ensuring the kitchen remains a pleasant and efficient space.
