It seems there is never enough space in the kitchen. However, it might not actually be a space issue. There are some design choices that can make even spacious kitchens feel smaller than they really are. Here are the common kitchen-shrinking mistakes, and how to reclaim the roomy, welcoming feel your kitchen deserves.
1. Dark Colors Create Visual Weight
If your kitchen is already on the small side, try to avoid using dark colors on your walls and cabinets. They can make a space feel like it’s closing in on you.
"Darker colors are going to make the space feel smaller in general, just because they absorb more light and they don't reflect as much," said Heather Mastrangeli, Interior Designer for Innovatus Design.
Do this instead: Choose lighter cabinet colors that expand visual space. If you love wood tones, consider lighter options like maple or oak with natural finishes. “Don’t be afraid of color,” Mastrangeli said. “Color is going to help lead your eye around the kitchen, which is going to help make it feel larger, even if it's a smaller space.”
2. Poor Lighting Placement Shrinks Usable Space
Poorly placed lighting can actually make your kitchen feel closed-in and uninviting.
"Lighting has to be thoughtfully planned out for it to work effectively in the kitchen," Mastrangeli said. "Using can lights in all your walkways is great until you need to work at the counter, because then you are creating shadows on your workspace."
Do this instead: Layer lighting with under-cabinet fixtures, strategic ceiling lights, and decorative pendants that draw the eye throughout the space. “You can have a dark kitchen and make it still feel bright, warm, and spacious, as long as the lighting is dialed in and correct.”
3. Islands Where They Don't Belong
Almost everyone wants an island these days, but not every kitchen has the space for one.
"A lot of people are trying to put islands where they don't belong," Mastrangeli said. "If you can't achieve 42 to 54 inches between countertop to countertop, then it's most likely not going to be the most comfortable working space."
Do this instead: Consider a rolling cart or counter-height table that can be moved when needed, or a slide-out countertop option that can be tucked away when not in use. You'll gain prep space without permanently shrinking your floor area.
4. Too Many Small Appliances
When every small appliance lives on your countertops, you've effectively shrunk your working area and created visual heaviness.
"It’s easy for people to put smaller appliances on the counter. But, if they’re not getting a lot of use, then that zone is taken up and can’t be used for anything else. It’s better to have more usable space," Mastrangeli said.
Do this instead: Be ruthless about what deserves permanent counter space. Store seldom-used items in cabinets or pantries, and try to avoid single-use appliances and tools.
5. Oversized Refrigerators Stealing Floor Space
A refrigerator that sticks out too far can dominate your kitchen and disrupt traffic flow.
"One thing that comes up a lot when I'm designing and talking with clients is how far the refrigerator might stick out," Mastrangeli said. "A lot of people are surprised to find out a counter depth fridge is still going to stick out past their counter."
Do this instead: Consider counter-depth or even fully integrated refrigerators that sit flush with cabinetry.
6. Poorly Planned Appliance Doors
How appliances open can affect your kitchen's functionality and perceived space.
"It’s easy for people to overlook how the dishwasher opens, for instance, and how that open door can impact your flow around the kitchen," Mastrangeli said.
Do this instead: Consider how appliance doors will affect usable space when open. Place dishwashers where their open doors won't block walkways or work areas. For tight spaces, consider dishwasher drawers or models with specialized hinges that require less clearance.
7. Choosing Bulky Cabinets
Oversized cabinetry is great for storage but can quickly overwhelm a smaller kitchen. Heavy-looking cabinets placed all the way up to the ceiling can make a kitchen feel cluttered and cramped.
Do this instead: Opt for sleek, streamlined cabinets. Consider open shelving or glass-front cabinets to create depth and the illusion of more space.
8. Multiple Competing Colors Creating Visual Chaos
When your cabinets, counters, backsplash, and flooring all feature different, competing colors, the space feels busy and smaller.
Do this instead: Create a cohesive color scheme with variations in tone rather than completely different colors. This creates visual flow that expands the space.
A spacious-feeling kitchen doesn’t always require knocking down walls. Making a few key design choices can transform your kitchen into a more inviting, open space.
Michael Letendre
Michael Letendre is a writer for NewHomeSource and Builder Magazine.