15 Ways to Maximize Your Extra-Narrow Cooking Space

Most kitchens have extra, unused wall space, often to the side of upper cabinets. Maximize these corners by installing simple open shelves to create additional storage for items that might otherwise clutter your counters. In narrow cooking quarters, every inch counts!

Portable shelves offer extra storage in extra-small nooks and crannies. Invest in space-saving styles like this modern, stacked corner option designed for a kitchen countertop. Cook N Home 2-Tier Corner Storage Shelf, US $27.

When used properly, lighting can make a space seem larger than it is. Consider installing a classic white subway tile backsplash – not only will it add modern flair, but it will allow light to bounce off of it, making the room seem brighter in an instant.

Don’t use precious counter space to store large pots and pans. Instead, invest in a stylish pot rack with a built-in shelf that can be easily installed on unused wall space or even hung from the ceiling. And if you’re worried about your cooking utensils being on display, simply work with them as part of the decor. Enclume Copper Bookshelf Pot Rack, $948.

Invest in a compact bar cart that will look fashionable in any space. A cart on wheels can also be relocated as needed, such as this chic brass find that can just as easily serve as a living room side table.

Always have a stack of stools on hand in your slender cooking space. They can serve as extra seating for guests, or even double as cocktail tables when entertaining. And the best part? When you’re done using them, just stack and store them away! Marius Stool in Black, $7 each.

Struggling to find extra cabinet space to store your cookbook collection, or even non-food related reads? Amplify your decor with an in-wall storage nook for displaying colourful paperbacks. Bonus: it doubles as an art installation.

Focus on function with a fashionable cart on wheels. Not only can it serve as an extension of your counter (aka a mobile kitchen island) but various designs also offer extra cabinetry and shelving. As with any good decor, invest in a unit that blends into your space or acts as a stylish statement piece. Terrell Kitchen Island, $228.

When decorating a narrow kitchen, don’t be afraid to embrace your creative side (that means you, DIYers). Come up with thoughtful solutions that suit your space, such as building makeshift furniture that can serve dual purposes. In this instance, the designer created an island countertop with a plank of wood, which hides a bulky radiator and also works as a breakfast bar.

Make use of the extra space beside your fridge by installing a customizable slide-out pantry with built-in shelving. Use the unit to store spices and other non-perishables, freeing up tons of counter and cabinetry space. The best part? No one will know it’s there! Sliding Pantry with Non-Slip Baskets, available through designers.

A bistro dining set is the perfect stand-in for a bulky table that takes up precious real estate. Consider purchasing a table for two, with character and style to enhance your space. This nook, styled by Stockholm’s Cristian Lind, features an antique bistro set with a marble tabletop – perfect for a casual-meets-chic kitchen.

Mirrored surfaces are one of the best ways to visually expand a tiny space. In a kitchen, opt for reflective upper cabinetry doors. The light bouncing off the mirrors will offer the illusion of a wider room, while giving the space sleek and modern appeal.

A counter-height table can have multiple purposes in a narrow kitchen: it can be used as a buffet space for entertaining, a dining table for everyday meals, or even a countertop while cooking. Placing the table against a wall will also clear up hallway space. Prosser Counter Height Dining Set, $186 per 3-piece set.

If you have room for a kitchen island, make sure it’s one that’s packed with storage solutions. Consider purchasing a unit with shelving and cabinetry to store formal dinnerware or other lesser-used pieces. Plus, open shelves are the perfect place to display cookbooks and other stylish finds.

Don’t underestimate the storage potential of cabinetry doors. The interior side can serve a variety of functions, from a hanging spice rack (find this one here) to a peg board with hooks for storing utensils to a magnetic board for kitchen essentials. The options are endless, so put on your DIY hat and get creative!