Small kitchen inspiration: Big cooking in a few square meters
Do you live in a small space but dream of a kitchen that feels like a loft? Good news: with the right tricks, even a 6 m² kitchen looks and functions like a professional living space. Below you will find proven tips divided into four categories: optical space hacks, smart storage, functional appliances, and atmospheric styling. You can experience all examples in person at the kitchen showrooms in Villa ArenA. Get your tape measure ready, let's get to work!
1. The foundation of a small kitchen
When furnishing a small kitchen, everything revolves around visual tranquility. The fewer interruptions, the larger the small space appears. Especially when you have limited space, it is essential to make the right choices regarding materials and colors.
The power of white & gloss
High-gloss fronts reflect up to 30% more light than matte lacquer (Journal of Environmental Psychology). This makes the kitchen appear deeper and brighter.
Handleless design
A flat front without handles forms a single calm wall. According to Uswitch trend research, 60% of Dutch people now opt for this minimalist look.
Long horizontal lines
Replace narrow cabinet doors with wide drawers (80–120 cm). The horizontal lines literally make the space appear wider.
Floating elements
An island on legs or a bar with an open base allows the floor to flow seamlessly, making the kitchen look “lighter.” Perfect for a so-called broken-plan interior.
At specialists such as Brugman Keukens & Badkamers, Bruynzeel Keukens, and Tulp Keukens, you will find countless layouts showing how to perfectly tailor a new kitchen to a compact space.
2. Smart storage solutions for small kitchens
Small kitchen inspiration includes a smart plan for your belongings. After all, you want to store as much as possible without the countertop becoming cluttered.
Tall cabinets up to the ceiling
Stop using that wasted space on top of the cabinets. By choosing tall cabinets that reach the ceiling, you immediately create extra storage space for items you need less often. Stores like Mandemakers Keukens and Keuken Coach are masters of this type of custom solution. Full-height cabinets utilize the unused 30–40 cm above your kitchen cabinets. Ideal for the gourmet set or Christmas dinnerware.
Making smart use of corners
Use carousel cabinets or smart drawer systems from KeukenConcurrent or Keukensale to utilize every centimeter.
The plinth drawer
Make optimal use of the plinth under your cabinets at I-Kook or Superkeukens. This is the ideal spot for baking trays and serving trays. This way, you gain up to 0.5 m² of extra storage space.
3. Appliances that fit your kitchen
Technology never stands still. Nowadays, you don't have to compromise on functionality when furnishing a small kitchen.
1.5-sink + cutting board
A large sink with an integrated cutting board creates workspace above the sink.
Boiling water tap
Scrap the kettle and gain counter space. This is already standard in 25% of new Dutch kitchens.
Built-in extractor hood
BORA downdraft cooktops keep sightlines open and save cabinet volume above the stove.
Slimline appliances
Consider 45 cm wide dishwashers or combination ovens. All-rounder, half footprint.
At Kvik, you will find working displays from BORA and Quooker. Ask the advisor how to smartly integrate piping and ventilation in a mini-kitchen.
4. Inspiration for small kitchens: Styling & Lighting
The right layout for a small kitchen is completed with the right atmosphere.
Alternating closed cabinets with open shelves creates an airy effect.
Lighting
Good task lighting under the upper cabinets ensures you can cut safely and makes the small kitchen appear visually deeper.
Ready to furnish your small kitchen?
Have you been inspired by this small kitchen inspiration? Furnishing a small kitchen starts with good advice. Visit Villa Arena, where our experts from Hello Kitchen and Keuken Kampioen, among others, will be happy to help you with a plan that fits your home and wishes exactly. Bring your floor plan with you and discover how we turn your limited space into a dream kitchen!