The world’s population count is continually on the rise, meaning that many homes in Britain (and across the globe!) are being built with smaller and smaller square footage. This important factor should be taken into consideration when thinking about the design of modern solid wood kitchens, therefore; and with this in mind, we are pleased to provide a collection of small kitchen design tips and decorating ideas to help you capitalise on the space you have available.

LAYOUT

The favoured layout concept for an efficient and functional space, the kitchen work triangle provides guidance on creating a kitchen that is easy to navigate, and is ideal for kitchens of smaller proportions.

Depending on where doors are situated within your kitchen, you may prefer to opt for a U-shaped kitchen, galley kitchen or L-shaped kitchen with a kitchen island. The proportions of the room will help to dictate which of these layouts is most suitable, but don’t forget to consider all the options before making your decision.

KEY FEATURES

If your kitchen needs to combine a dining area, too, we recommend incorporating a breakfast bar. Extend wooden worktops with an overhang or add an elevated breakfast bar worktop so that bar stools can be tucked away underneath. This enhances your kitchen with a casual dining area that occupies very little floor space – as well as providing room for work or study – instead of cluttering the room with unnecessary kitchen furniture.

We also suggest installing twin-bowl Belfast sinks if yours is a kitchen of modest proportions. These double ceramic sinks have ample bowls, which means that – when you’re in a hurry – you can stash used dishes in one bowl (leaving the other bowl free for washing-up when you have the time), ensuring that your kitchen is free of clutter even when work surfaces are in high demand.

CLEVER CABINETS

We offer a wide range of kitchen cabinets that can help you make the most of your space. For instance, our collection of high-quality full-height cabinet units encompasses a huge variety of storage options, particularly the spacious Blum™ Space Tower (an impressive pantry cupboard with four generous drawers).

To make the most of the available room in smaller kitchens, it is essential to take advantage of wall space: so don’t forget to explore our range of wall cabinets (including our practical bridging units). Cabinets are available with open shelving and with solid oak cupboard doors, allowing you to combine the two looks and create a kitchen style that is completely unique.

We also stock a collection of specialist cabinetry, which comprises a variety of units to house appliances, sinks and wicker baskets.

STORAGE SOLUTIONS

Our collection of cabinetry is completed with a complementary range of wirework storage solutions. From pull-out basketsand corner carousels to our full-height soft-close larder, there are plenty of different ways to ensure you make the most of every inch of cupboard space.

DESIGN

To keep small kitchens looking bright, fresh and uplifted, we recommend using a design scheme that is not too busy in terms of colour and pattern, and that incorporates a variety of polished and gloss surfaces to bounce natural artificial light back into the room (rather than absorbing it). When it comes to reflective surfaces, our glass and stainless steel splashbacks and stainless steel door handles are an excellent choice, producing a design that is both modern and stylish.

In order to create a look that is calm and unobtrusive, neutral colour palettes are advised, and white or cream hues are a wise choice for the predominant colour. Paints like Farrow & Ball’s All White or New White are perfect for this purpose, and will only serve to further enhance the light and airy feel of the space. Pale blue can also be recommended, with a shade such as Farrow & Ball’s Parma Gray, which has a formal yet fresh feel.

This look is best complemented with wooden work surfaces in paler shades, which will have an uplifting effect. Surfaces such as our elegant maple worktops, pale ash worktops, bright beech surfaces or traditional oak countertops would be especially well suited to smaller kitchens.

If you’re looking for more kitchen design inspiration, why not peruse our Pinterest page, or have a scroll through our Instagram account?