Make the most of a small kitchen with these clever ideas.

OPEN UP

Open shelving rather than wall-mounted cabinets makes Leane and Stuart Schabram’s kitchen, feel more inviting. These shelves are great to display pretty pieces of crockery and glassware. (designed by Union 3)

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LOOKING GLASS

Olivia Daleman of Olivia.d.interiors chose mirror for this splashback in her kitchen. Not only does it add glamour to the kitchen, the reflections make the room feel much bigger.

Clever tricks to maximise space in small kitchens

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WONDER WINDOW

Instead of a splashback, architect Tracy Levinson of Levco Architects incorporated a window into this kitchen, creating a sense of depth. As the window looks out to a courtyard, the room appears larger.

Clever tricks to maximise space in small kitchens - window

OUT OF SIGHT

Conceal kitchen appliances behind a raised counter. This one, designed by Lisa Clelland of Mangar Projects, has a lower level on the other side with a hob, so the cook can be part of the action and the cooking mess is hidden from view. (décor by Lisa Walters interiors)

Clever tricks to maximise space in small kitchens - out of sight

FROM ABOVE

These clever drop-down cabinets in Sharon and Leslie Mulraj’s kitchen, designed by Modlife Design and Manufacture, keep the counter clutter free. They glide open with a gentle touch ensuring that even delicate glassware can be safely stored in them.

Clever tricks to maximise space in small kitchens - from above

CENTRE STAGE

Instead of installing a bulky kitchen island in her compact kitchen, this homeowner transformed a small vintage cabinet into an island by adding a grey marble top. Its multiple drawers provide plenty of space for storing kitchen utensils and crockery.

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Clever tricks to maximise space in small kitchens - centre stage