Sometimes “too many cooks in the kitchen” can literally mean the kitchen is too small for the cooks.

But, “a compact space doesn’t mean culinary dreams should be discarded,” says kitchen designer Toni Roberts of Kitchen Architecture Ltd. Here’s how to make a small kitchen space as big as possible:

LAYOUT

When designing a small kitchen, layout is vitally important says Roberts. “The secret is understanding the dynamics of a kitchen’s workflow.”

She calls it “activity zoning.” Where will each task be done and what does each part needs in terms of storage, shelving, draws and lights? But also when might it be used by people at different times of the day? These are all questions to ask to ensure a small kitchen is as functional as possible.

Interior designer Nicola Manning suggests the best layout for a small kitchen is a galley style, which normally features two parallel walls with the kitchen benches, cabinets and storage on either side.

“This means you don’t have any awkward corners to work with and gives you full access to all part of the kitchen,” she says.

A one-wall kitchen is compact and space-saving but it can lack in bench space. Install a kitchen island trolley on wheels, it will provide the extra bench space needed for food prep and can be rolled away and stored when it’s not being used.

STORAGE AND SHELVING

“Every centimetre of a small kitchen must be utilised to it’s full extent,” says Manning.

She suggests taking overhead and full height cupboards all the way to the ceiling. Use the toe-kick space under the cupboards as storage for platters or trays and full extension internal drawers within cupboards maximise quantity of storage.

Shelving could be your key to keeping clutter off the bench. Even if it’s just a simple shelf or ledge on the wall, it’s the perfect spot for all those frequently used items that tend to hang around on the bench; oil, salt and pepper, tea canisters, herbs and spices.

THE BENCH

“Most would think to fill a small kitchen design with as much bench space as possible,” says Roberts. “But it’s more about proportions and the intended functionality.”

When Roberts designs small kitchens she usually ensures there are at least two bench zones for food prep and plating up and an additional zone for drink making.

Manning suggests using a sink that has accessories such as a chopping board that can fit over top, or simply a sink cover to increase bench space.

An induction stove is also a better option than a gas stove as it provides more flat surface that can be used as bench.

Keeping bench space clear is vital when you don’t have much space to begin with, so Manning suggests building the microwave into the wall instead of having it sit on the bench. Incorporate a knife block into a cutlery drawer so there isn’t need for a knife block on the bench either.

And while we’re tucking things away, it’s best to create an ‘appliance garage;’ a cupboard that houses the toaster, kettle, coffee machine and blender on the bench, but has doors to hide it away if need be.

COLOUR

Light colours will make a space feel bigger and making your cabinetry and walls the same colour will create a visually larger space.

“The only caution is that this might create a soulless kitchen,” says Roberts. “Balance this risk with the use of texture and colour.”

LIGHTING

Choose a lighting layout that will make the ceiling feel taller and the corners of the room softer, this will create the illusion of more space.

“Natural and auxiliary lighting will give the appearance of space and openness,” says Roberts.