There’s no single right way to design a kitchen, but there are definitely plenty of wrong ways—especially when you're working with limited space. A small kitchen can be both a challenge and an opportunity, depending on how you approach it.
If you’re facing a tight layout, it's essential to collaborate with a skilled kitchen designer. A good designer doesn’t just create beautiful spaces—they solve problems and help you make the most of your area. With the right guidance, even the smallest kitchen can become functional, stylish, and enjoyable to use.
Many people imagine small kitchens as cramped, cluttered, and uncomfortable. But that doesn’t have to be the case. When designed thoughtfully, a small kitchen can be elegant, efficient, and surprisingly versatile. This week, we reached out to the Laurysen design team to get their insights on working with small spaces. They shared some of their best tips, tricks, and real-life experiences.
### 1. Use Space Wisely: Wael Bakr
Wael Bakr is all about practicality. As an architect by training, he focuses on creating kitchens that are not only visually appealing but also highly functional. For him, the goal is to maximize usability in every square inch.
In smaller kitchens, he believes that combining elements can save space without sacrificing performance. For example, a microwave built into the range hood or compact appliances that don’t compromise on quality are smart choices. His philosophy is simple: a small kitchen may not do everything a large one can, but it should still work just as well.
### 2. Plan Thoroughly: Stephen Hnatyshyn
Stephen Hnatyshyn emphasizes the importance of clear communication. Before starting any project, he always asks homeowners exactly what they need and want. This helps avoid overloading the space with unnecessary features.
He knows that in small kitchens, compromises are inevitable. But he encourages clients to focus on what matters most and build around that. By prioritizing key elements, you can create a space that feels complete, even if it’s not perfect.
### 3. Stay Realistic: Kenysha Manery
Kenysha Manery reminds us that not everything is possible in a small kitchen. She advises homeowners to set realistic expectations from the start. For instance, islands are usually out of the question unless the space is at least 12’x12’. That’s because you need room for movement and storage.
Her advice is to understand the limitations before getting too excited. While small kitchens can be beautiful, they also require careful planning and smart design choices.
### 4. Focus on Essentials: Aviva Ben-Choreen
Aviva Ben-Choreen believes that the kitchen’s main purpose is to support food preparation. She encourages clients to prioritize the essentials first—like countertops, storage, and efficient layouts—before adding extra features.
She often sees people trying to pack too much into a small space, which leads to clutter and inefficiency. Her message is clear: less is more, as long as the basics are covered.
### 5. Dream Bigger, Think Smaller: Heather Tardioli
Even though space is limited, Heather Tardioli believes that big ideas can still work in small kitchens. It just takes creativity and a bit of flexibility. She suggests looking for innovative solutions that make the most of the available space.
Her goal is to help clients achieve their dream kitchen, even if it means scaling things down. The key is to find a balance between style and functionality.
### 6. Maximize Storage: Kimberly Silcox
One of the biggest challenges in small kitchens is storage. Kimberly Silcox recommends thinking vertically instead of horizontally. Tall cabinets, wall-mounted shelves, and custom storage solutions can make a big difference.
She works closely with her clients to understand what they’ll actually be storing. This helps her design storage systems that are both practical and efficient.
### Bonus: Don’t Forget the Look
While aesthetics shouldn’t come at the expense of function, they still matter. A well-designed kitchen should look good and feel great. However, small kitchens may need more light or clever design choices to feel open and welcoming.
Remember, many of the most stunning kitchens you see online are actually larger spaces. So, while beauty is nice, your priority should always be a kitchen that works for you.
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