Even in a good-sized kitchen, it can be hard to find a place for everything. In a small kitchen, it can feel downright impossible. These storage and organization ideas, culled from our archive of tiny kitchens we love, will make you realize your small-space storage issues aren’t really so big after all. Here, 10 solutions for maxing out storage in a mini kitchen.
Above: In addition to the open pantry that was DIY’d by the homeowners using ash wood, they managed to fit two Ikea wall cabinets on top of each other to the left of it, and turn the leftover space above into a cabinet of its own. See Tricks of the Trade: 7 Small-Space Storage Tips from Emil Eve Architects. Photograph by Mariell Lind Hansen, courtesy of Emil Eve.
Above: Appliances don’t have to take up an inordinate amount of space. This tiny plywood kitchenette fits an electric stovetop and a fridge and microwave, both hidden behind cabinet fronts. See A Family House in Porto Restored, Traditional Tile Included. Photograph by José Campos.
5. Source a folding table that has storage too.
Above: The Table Plus from UK-based Magnet Kitchens offers an extra work or dining surface and includes storage space. The leather pockets are handy for stashing mail and magazines.
6. Think like a puzzle maker.
Above: Here’s what you can’t see in this image: A tiered set of built-ins under the range pulls out to reveal a cutting board, silverware drawer, a produce storage bin (with ventilation), and a deep hatch for extra pots and pans; next to that is an under-counter refrigerator, a pullout trash can, and a slim spice rack. For a GIF that shows the drawers pulled out, see The Secret Apartment: A Hyperefficient Moscow Flat with Stealth Storage (and a Hidden Kitchen). Photograph by Polina Poludkina.
7. Move in a restaurant-grade kitchen island.
Above: You can source inexpensive stainless steel islands and kitchen carts, both great for extra storage and counter space, from restaurant supply stores. This one came from Bowery Restaurant Supply, in New York City. See Designer Lena Corwin at Home in Fort Greene. Photograph by Brian Ferry.
Above: The grid of cabinets in this airy Berlin kitchen offers a ton of built-in storage but doesn’t feel heavy. It “feels more like an existing wall than massive cabinets,” says designer Lea Korzeczek. See Kitchen of the Week: A Poetic Apartment Kitchen by Studio Oink. Photograph by and courtesy of Studio Oink.
10. Consider sliding doors.
Above: The narrow passage between the island and wall in this Melbourne, Australia, kitchen made normal doors a near impossibility. Sliding doors solved this small-space problem. See Kitchen of the Week: A Seventies Overhaul by Hearth Studio. Photograph by Christo Crocker.
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