I spend a lot of time in my kitchen, but recently, it's started to lack any homey appeal. It's a small galley with limited countertop space, so over time, any decor pieces have been moved elsewhere to prioritize the more functional needs.
But it's feeling cold and impersonal – something I really want to fix ASAP. I'm a big believer that your small kitchen ideas should be as cozy and characterful as other living spaces, but what's the best way to do it?
I've asked interior designers for their best advice on how to make a kitchen feel cozy, and their ideas have completely transformed the look and feel of my small scheme. Here's everything they suggested for a cozy update.
Easy ways to make a small kitchen feel cozier
For most of us, the kitchen is the heart of the home. They're important spaces that should be given the same attention as any other room – even more so if you have an open-plan kitchen. But there are so many easy ways to infuse warmth and character into your space without completely redecorating. And it's certainly worked for me.
1. Introduce curated open shelves
Whenever I speak to designers about small kitchen design, the most common piece of advice is to swap out a few upper cabinets for open shelving to open up the space and help natural light filter through the space.
But open shelving is also a great way to make a small scheme feel cozy and personalized – and it's all about curated displays. 'Adding personality to small spaces always makes for a win and makes them feel cozy,' says Sallie Lord, of GreyHunt Interiors.
'From adding a charming light over the sink to styling shelves with items that are functional but also tell a little story about you and what you love, you can create the perfect personalized, cozy kitchen,' she explains.
A wooden cutting board is the perfect way to make a small kitchen feel cozier – and the perfect addition to open shelving. The rich tones instantly add warmth to your space.
Vases are awkward pieces to store. There's never quite the right place for them. But a decorative design is the perfect addition to open shelving in a small kitchen. Stylish and easily accessible.
Canisters are always useful in a kitchen, but if you don't want them filling the small amount of counter space you have, why not display them on open shelving? This design is decorative and functional.
2. Layer different lighting styles
Adding a light over the sink isn't the only way to use lighting to create a sense of coziness. Designers are encouraging people to layer their kitchen lighting this year for a cozier design. And it's something I'm keen to add to my own space.
The only light in my kitchen comes from ceiling lights and windows. But to bring in a warmer, cozier atmosphere, I've taken their advice and introduced lamps to my kitchen.
It might have started off as a controversial kitchen countertop lighting trend, but no one can deny the difference it makes. I've added mine to cozy corners and on the windowsill, and it's made such a huge difference.
And, in the spirit of layering, I'm also looking at adding some under-cabinet lighting for the more functional needs of my space.
Lampscaping your kitchen is the perfect way to add a cozy ambience to your space. Opt for a smaller design like this one – rattan is timeless and adds a new texture to your design.
Wall lights are often found in small kitchens, especially older properties. So, why not elevate your fixtures to double up as wall decor? This ruffled shade adds a softer finish amongst paint and tiles.
Although under cabinet lighting is less glamorous, they're hidden out of sight so you can't see the actual fixtures. This set of three wireless, rechargeable lights is perfect for an easy fix.
3. Focus on fabrics
I'll admit, one feature I've really overlooked is the fabrics in my kitchen. Aside from a tea towel and oven glove hung from my oven, there's really no other textiles in my space. Unsurprisingly, it's something I need to change if I want my kitchen to feel cozier.
'I would begin by adding window treatments and upholstered chairs. Fabric always makes things cozier,' says interior designer Jamie Gauker. My kitchen window treatments are currently wooden, but swapping them for something softer will instantly warm up my space.
Similarly, I originally opted for black bar stools so they could almost hide seamlessly beneath my breakfast bar (in the hopes of giving the illusion of greater space), but I've finally replaced them with upholstered alternatives, and I love how they look!
Cafe curtains are the perfect kitchen window treatment to add coziness without completely blocking the natural light. This set of two in a floral design is a charming choice.
Something as simple as adding beautifully-designed tea towels can add a sense of coziness to a small kitchen. This floral print is a great example – it adds pattern and color without being too fussy.
Introducing upholstered counter stools doesn't mean you have to go for a large, chair-like design. A simple stool like this one with a soft seat cushion will make all the difference to the coziness of your scheme.
4. Elevate the finishing touches
Decor is always the finishing touch that ties a scheme together and gives it a more personalized feel. As I mentioned, the few decor pieces that once lived in my kitchen have been moved elsewhere, so it's the perfect time to rethink how I accessorize.
'Having an overall finished look will always create comfort. Wallpaper, rugs, cabinet hardware, lighting, and art all add finishing touches,' says Jamie. The layout and design of my kitchen don't allow for wallpaper, but rugs and art are easy pieces to introduce.
A runner has instantly brightened the dark kitchen floor tiles and added extra warmth underfoot. But it's the art pieces that have really added a more unique finish to my space. They've not only filled the empty wall space, but art has really become the talking point of the design.
You might not instantly think of art as a cozy addition, but it's all about giving your kitchen the same lived-in appeal as a living room or bedroom. A floral design like this works perfectly in your cooking space.
Here's one for the bakers. This fun cake illustration is the perfect way to add not only a sense of coziness but also some of your personality into your kitchen. Plus, the frame has a gorgeous texture.
If you prefer something more neutral, this fun 'cheers' design is a great choice. Offered with a natural wood or black frame, it's the perfect piece to hang above a breakfast bar or drinks trolley.
With so many beautiful ideas to transform your small kitchen from cold and uninviting to warm and cozy, there's no reason your space should feel impersonal. For me, adding a decorative lamp, laying a rug, and introducing personal art has made a huge difference to my small kitchen – I'm already spending more time in it outside of cooking!
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