Having a small kitchen doesn’t mean you have to compromise on flavour, creativity, or efficiency. In fact, many professional chefs started out in cramped spaces, learning how to make the most of every centimetre. With a few smart choices and the right tools — like a reliable Smeg microwave — you can transform even the tiniest kitchen into a space that feels organised, stylish, and functional.
Start by Rethinking Your Space
The key to cooking in a small kitchen isn’t having more space — it’s using it better. Look at your layout and identify areas that could serve multiple purposes. For example, a benchtop can double as prep space and storage if you use stackable containers or magnetic spice racks. Hooks under cabinets can hold utensils, and slim rolling trolleys can fit perfectly between appliances.
When every item has its place, cooking becomes easier, faster, and more enjoyable. You’ll spend less time searching for things and more time actually enjoying the process.
Invest in Space-Saving Appliances
Compact, multifunctional appliances are game-changers in small kitchens. Instead of cluttering your benchtop with separate gadgets, focus on tools that can handle more than one task.
Here are some examples:
- Combination appliances: Look for ovens that can also grill, steam, or air fry.
- High-quality microwaves: Modern models can reheat, bake, and defrost evenly, saving both space and time.
- Slimline dishwashers or fridges: These give you the convenience of larger units without taking over your kitchen.
A thoughtfully chosen appliance setup lets you cook more efficiently without needing a full-sized chef’s kitchen.
Keep Only What You Use
One of the most overlooked secrets of cooking in a small space is simplicity. You don’t need a drawer full of specialised gadgets to create great food — just the essentials. Keep versatile tools that you reach for daily: a sharp chef’s knife, a sturdy chopping board, quality pans, and heatproof dishes that can go from oven to table.
Decluttering also improves your workflow. When your kitchen feels spacious and organised, it’s easier to stay calm, focused, and inspired to cook.
Prep Like a Pro With Smart Organisation
Professional chefs often use a system called “mise en place,” which means “everything in its place.” It’s about prepping ingredients before you start cooking so the actual process feels smooth and effortless. You can apply this even in the smallest kitchen by:
- Chopping vegetables and storing them in small containers ahead of time
- Using stackable bowls or jars to keep pre-measured ingredients handy
- Cleaning as you go to keep benches clear and clutter-free
These small habits create order — and order brings confidence, especially when space is tight.
Choose Cookware That Works Harder
When every piece of equipment needs to earn its spot, look for items that serve multiple purposes.
- Cast-iron pans can go from stovetop to oven.
- Glass containers can double as mixing bowls and storage.
- Collapsible colanders and nesting mixing bowls save space when stored.
By choosing adaptable cookware, you’ll have more flexibility to experiment with recipes without overcrowding your cupboards.
Make Lighting and Colour Work for You
A small kitchen can feel open and inviting with the right visual touches. Bright, even lighting makes prep work easier and creates the illusion of more space. Under-cabinet LED strips or a soft pendant light above the counter can instantly elevate the feel of your kitchen.
Stick with lighter tones for walls and benchtops to keep things airy, and add small accents — like wooden utensils or a pop of colour in your dishware — for warmth and character.
Use Smart Cooking Techniques
When space is limited, efficiency is everything. Batch cooking, one-pan meals, and quick recipes become your best friends. Try preparing grains, proteins, and sauces in advance, so you can mix and match throughout the week without constantly cleaning up.
Appliances like a combination microwave or convection model let you cook quickly while preserving flavour and texture. You’ll find that you can whip up impressive meals without needing a dozen burners or a restaurant-sized oven.
Create a Space You Love Spending Time In
A small kitchen shouldn’t feel restrictive — it should feel personal. Display your most-used utensils within reach, hang a few plants near the window, or add a compact bookshelf for your favourite cookbooks. When you love how your space looks, you’ll naturally enjoy using it more often.
Cooking like a chef isn’t about how much room you have — it’s about how you use it. With the right setup, a few clever tools, and a touch of organisation, your small kitchen can easily become the most creative and rewarding space in your home.
