small kitchen Layout
How to set up a small kitchen layout so you can transform your cramped kitchen into a functional, inviting space. Arrange your layout for better flow and organization so that every task is smoother and clutter-free.
Get Kitchen organization tips on organizing a small kitchen and making the most of your storage.
Not everyone is blessed with a large and open kitchen. In our first home, the kitchen was so tiny that only one person could be in there at a time.
I had to learn to be creative back then, finding areas to store our food and dishes that made the best use of our space.
Utilize Every Inch of Space
When dealing with limited kitchen space, it’s essential to make use of every available inch. This includes going vertical to the ceiling if you are able. Floating shelves are a good option and give you the freedom to put shelves as high up as you need to.
Look at the storage you have and double up where you can. Stacking shelf risers and under-shelf drawers can give you more room to hold plates and dishes.
You can also use cabinet doors for extra storage by installing hooks or magnetic strips to hold small items like measuring spoons or spice jars.
Another way to utilize every inch of space is by using multi-functional kitchen items. For example, a cutting board that also doubles as a strainer, or a collapsible colander that can be easily stored when not in use.
Small Kitchen Layout
Most kitchens, no matter the size, are set up in a triangular shape. The sink, stove, and refrigerator should form a triangle with enough space in between for easy movement.
Keeping with this layout, you want to organize each area to allow the task that happens there to be more efficient.
For instance, store pots and pans near the stove for easy access while cooking, and keep dishes and cutlery close to the sink or dishwasher to unload quickly after washing.
Kitchen Zones
To more efficiently organize a small kitchen it can be helpful to think of things in zones. Kitchen zones are locations where tasks happen, and the more tools you can keep in each zone, the more efficient your space will be.
Let’s look at tips for organizing each area efficiently so you can free up space on your counters and work areas.
#1. The Cooking Zone
The main task that happens in a kitchen is cooking, so let’s begin there. The main part of cooking is the stove, and the cabinets framing this area are best used to hold items that are meant for cooking.
- Pots and Pans
- Cooking Utensils
- Oils and Vinegar
- Spices and Herbs
- Cooking Sheets
Space Saving Tip: Hang a pot rack to hold pots, pans, and colanders, freeing up cabinet space for other storage. You can use a hanging rack setup or a pot shelf with hangers below that more easily fit in tight spaces.
#2. Food Prep Zone
The second part of the kitchen to think about is where you prepare food. The key areas here are the sink and counter space.
- Cutting Boards
- Knives
- Mixing Bowls
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Food Processor or Blender (if applicable)
Space Saving Tip: Use an over-the-sink cutting board to create extra counter space when needed, and store it away easily when not in use.
#3. Dishes, Silverware, and Glasses Zone
Next, let’s look at the area where you store and clean dishes, silverware, and glasses. Usually, this zone is near the sink and dishwasher.
- Plates, Bowls, and Cups
- Silverware and Utensils
- Drinking Glasses
- Dish Towels
Space Saving Tip: Use a dish rack or drying mat to allow dishes to air dry instead of taking up counter space with a dish towel.
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#4. Pantry/Food Storage Zone
Finally, we have the pantry/storage zone for all non-perishable items and extra kitchen gadgets that may not fit in other zones.
- Canned Goods
- Pasta/Rice/Grains
- Baking Supplies (Flour, Sugar, etc.)
- Small Kitchen Appliances (Toaster, Blender, etc.)
- Miscellaneous Gadgets (Can Opener, Pizza Cutter, etc.)
Space Saving Tip: Use stacking shelves or organizers to maximize vertical space in your pantry and cabinets.
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Make the Most of Your Space
Once you have your zones set up and streamlined, there are more things you can do to find more room in your small kitchen.
Remove Duplicates
Routinely go through your cooking tools and remove any duplicates. It is okay to keep multiples of an item you use often, such as a spatula or wooden spoon, but having seven sets of measuring cups is more than you can store.
Decluttering Tip: Kick off each month by sorting through your kitchen and identifying items you no longer need or use. Aim to donate 5–10 things, creating valuable storage space for the items you rely on most.
Keep Counters Clear
Countertops can quickly become cluttered and take up valuable prep space. Keep only essential items, such as a knife block or utensil holder, on the counter.
Decluttering Tip: Keep any small appliances you use weekly stored away in a pantry or closet. Only keep out things you use 5 times a week or more. Get space-saving tips on how to arrange appliances on a kitchen counter.
Rethink the Area Around Your Sink
The area around your sink can be a great place for storage.
- Add a tension rod underneath your sink to hang cleaning supplies.
- Install a door container to hold food wrap.
- Put drawers below the sink to hold dishwasher tables, sponges, and dish soap.
Space Saving Tip: Install hooks inside cabinet doors to hold dish towels, pot holders, or measuring spoons.
Keep Other Items Out of the Kitchen
To keep your kitchen streamlined, set a rule to keep non-kitchen items in another space. Things like mail, clutter, book bags, and purses can take up valuable counter space. Look to find another area to keep these items.
Organizing Tip: Create a command center on a door or hallway wall to organize papers, mail, schedules, and shopping lists. This simple setup keeps everything in one spot while freeing up precious counter space in your kitchen.
Go on a Storage Hunt
When looking for storage space in a small kitchen, you will want to think outside of the box.
- Hang a door organizer to hold oils, seasonings, and spices.
- A long floating shelf can hold cookbooks, baking dishes, or casseroles.
- Tiered shelving can triple the space you have on a counter.
- Magnetic shelves on a fridge can hold spices and oils.
- Lazy Susans can make better use of a corner in a cabinet.
- Hanging bags are great for holding potatoes, onions, or produce.
How to Store Pots and Pans in a Small Kitchen
Pots and pans can take up a lot of space in your kitchen cabinets. Here are some tips for storing them efficiently:
- Hang pots and pans on a pot rack installed over an island or stove.
- Use a lid organizer to keep lids neat and accessible.
- Stack pans in a drawer with adjustable dividers for easy access.
- Store large pots and pans in the oven when not in use.
- Utilize wall space by installing a pegboard to hang pots and pans on hooks.
- Install a pot lid rack on the inside of cabinet doors for easy access.
- Don’t be afraid to repurpose items, such as using a file organizer to hold baking sheets and cutting boards.
A well-organized small kitchen can transform how you cook, clean, and live in your space. By setting up a layout that is efficient, you’ll be amazed at how much more functional and enjoyable your kitchen can become.
Remember, it’s all about working smarter with the room you have—streamlining zones, creating storage solutions, and keeping clutter out.
Start small, keep refining, and soon, you’ll have a small kitchen layout that not only saves space but makes cooking a joy again.
