Many kitchens feel smaller than they actually are. The issue isn’t always the square footage; it’s how the space is designed and used. Even large kitchens can seem cramped if certain design mistakes are made. Fortunately, a full remodel isn’t always necessary to improve the perception of space. Here are seven common issues that make kitchens feel smaller, along with simple fixes.
Countertop Clutter: The Biggest Offender
One of the quickest ways to make a kitchen feel cramped is to leave too many appliances and items on the countertops. While convenience is tempting, excessive clutter limits usable workspace.
Why it matters: Countertops are for preparing food, not storing unused gadgets. A clear counter feels more spacious, even if the kitchen is small.
Interior designer Candis Stratton points out that people often keep appliances on the counter even if they rarely use them. The solution is simple: store away items you don’t use daily to maximize workspace.
Poor Lighting Shrinks the Space
Dim or poorly placed lighting can visually shrink a kitchen. Dark corners and shadows make the room feel smaller and less inviting.
Why it matters: Light expands perception. A well-lit kitchen feels open, while a dark kitchen feels closed in.
Stratton notes that unlit back counters appear to disappear. Upgrading to brighter bulbs, adding under-cabinet lights, or installing pendant lights over work areas can dramatically improve the feeling of space.
Overbearing Wall Cabinets
Heavy upper cabinets can visually overwhelm a kitchen, especially smaller ones. The eye needs space to rest, and a solid wall of cabinetry creates a claustrophobic effect.
Why it matters: Visual weight impacts perception. Dark colors and solid cabinets make a room feel heavier and smaller.
Jaclyn Szerdi Morrison of Jewel Toned Interiors suggests replacing some upper cabinets with open shelving, glass-front doors, or eliminating them altogether for a more open impression.
A Poorly Planned Layout Causes Chaos
A badly designed layout is a common and often expensive problem. If movement through the kitchen is awkward or restricted, the space will always feel cramped.
Why it matters: Functionality dictates how we feel in a space. A well-planned kitchen flows naturally, while a poorly planned one feels frustrating and small.
Stratton recommends considering traffic flow during renovations. Ensure people can move freely through the work triangle without obstacles.
Conflicting Zones Create Bottlenecks
Each kitchen has zones for food prep, cooking, and cleaning. When these zones overlap, the space feels chaotic and cramped.
Why it matters: Clear zones mean smoother workflow. When everything is crammed together, the kitchen feels smaller and more stressful.
Szerdi Morrison explains that poor zoning creates bottlenecks. Widening clearances between zones, especially on islands, can significantly improve the feeling of space.
Forcing an Island Into a Small Kitchen
An island that doesn’t fit is worse than no island at all. Narrow clearances and improper circulation make the kitchen feel even smaller.
Why it matters: An island should enhance space, not restrict it. A poorly sized island creates more problems than it solves.
Chasity Centeno suggests ensuring at least 42 inches of clearance around the island. If you can’t accommodate three stools comfortably, skip the island altogether.
Unorganized Cabinets and Drawers Amplify Clutter
Disorganized cabinets and drawers create the illusion of less space. Rummaging through cluttered storage reinforces the feeling of a cramped kitchen.
Why it matters: Organization is key to maximizing perceived space. When everything has a place, the kitchen feels more spacious and functional.
Stratton recommends using drawer and cabinet organizers to keep items tidy and accessible. This makes the kitchen easier to use and feel larger, no matter where the changes happen.
Ultimately, making a kitchen feel bigger is about maximizing functionality and minimizing visual clutter. By addressing these common design mistakes, even small kitchens can feel spacious and inviting.
