6 things you should never put in a small kitchen, according to designers

We're big believers that no matter the size of your space, you shouldn't have to compromise on luxury and style. But there are a few things you should never put in a small kitchen if you want it to be functional and aesthetic.

There are so many beautiful small kitchen ideas that come highly recommended by interior designers, but what about the things you shouldn't include? A more compact space comes with its challenges, so tailoring your design is key for a successful scheme.

So, what should you be avoiding? From decor to larger furniture pieces, these are the things you should never put in a small kitchen if you want it to be functional and aesthetic.

6 things you should never put in a small kitchen

Every space is different, and the requirements of the space change from household to household. But there are a few things designers say should be avoided in every small kitchen to perfect that balance of creating a design that's a practical cooking space but also feels characterful and homey.

1. Deep cabinets and appliances

Starting with the bones of your small kitchen, you should never fill your space with oversized cabinets and appliances if you don't have the space for them. It takes up so much room and will make your space look even smaller than it really is.

'One of the biggest mistakes in a small kitchen is using bulky, oversized cabinetry or freestanding units that take up too much space. Deep appliances – like an American-style fridge – can dominate the space and make it harder to move around,' says Fiona Ginnett, co-founder at HØLTE.

'Instead of heavy cabinetry, try a mix of open shelving and slimline cupboards to keep things feeling light and open. Pull-out pantry drawers, integrated appliances, and under-counter storage can help you maximise every inch without making the kitchen feel boxed in,' she suggests.

This will depend on your kitchen layout, though. Fiona notes that a galley is usually preferable in long, narrow kitchens over a U-shaped design to increase light. 'You can break up a galley layout with a peninsula or mix up the depth of your cabinets to create zones. This makes the kitchen feel more open while still giving you loads of storage,' she adds.

2. Full-sized dining furniture

Small kitchens often still have space for a cozy dining area, but you should never put a full-size dining table and chairs in your space. It will take up far too much space and impede the flow and function.

Be more considerate about the style of dining options you introduce. If you've only got a small corner to work with, consider adding a dining nook. 'Instead of traditional dining chairs, consider a built-in bench that blends into the cabinetry and doubles as extra storage,' Fiona suggests.

Alternatively, if you don't have space for a dedicated dining area, opt for a more informal seating design instead. 'Slimline stools at a breakfast bar are another great way to save space,' she adds.

3. An oversized island

No one can deny the appeal of a kitchen island. Centering your kitchen design while adding storage and surface space, it seems like the perfect addition to your small space. But forcing one in where it doesn't fit is a huge mistake.

'Kitchens need to be as functional as they are beautiful, and sacrificing floor space to fit an island will just give an awkward, uncomfortable look. The importance of walkway space should be a key consideration. When designing your layout, always leave a metre of walkway space on either one or two sides of your countertop, island, or peninsula counter,' advises kitchen designer Tom Howley.

There are plenty of alternatives to an island that give you the functional benefits without overcrowding your small kitchen. 'Instead of an island, consider incorporating wall-mounted or tall cupboards to maximise storage. Slimline or pull-out units can also help keep everything accessible without taking up too much space,' suggests Charlie Smallbone, founder at Ledbury Studio.

'If a central feature is still desired, a narrow peninsula or a compact breakfast bar can provide additional surface area without disrupting movement. To prevent the space from feeling too heavy, materials like fluted glass or open shelving can help create a lighter, airier feel while still offering practicality,' he adds.

4. Countertop decor without function

We love to add character and personality to a small kitchen, but countertop decor that has no function is something you should never put in a small kitchen. It clutters up your kitchen countertops and makes cooking and cleaning a much more difficult chore.

Anything you display on your counters should double up as a functional piece – it could be a pair of wooden cutting boards layered and leaning against a wall, a beautifully-designed ceramic fruit bowl, or even elevated canisters and oil cruets for a more luxurious look.

By making the most functional items in your kitchen decorative, you can create a more personalized scheme without creating clutter and reducing your prep space. And if there are some purely decorative pieces you want to include, consider wall art or curated shelving displays instead.

5. Too many upper cabinets

Just as you should never put bulky furniture and appliances in a small kitchen, there's a particular focus on heavy upper cabinets, especially when every wall is filled with them. They might add storage, but they are probably ruining your space.

'Large, deep upper cabinets can make a small kitchen feel closed in and heavy. They often block natural light and create a more claustrophobic environment, especially in tight spaces,' says Melissa Bowers, founder at M.A. Bowers Inc.

'Instead, consider open shelving or glass-front cabinets. These create the illusion of more space while still providing storage. A well-styled open shelf with everyday essentials can be both functional and visually light, enhancing the kitchen’s overall aesthetic.'

6. Oversized kitchen lighting

When it comes to things you should never put in a small kitchen, remember to consider the smaller features as well. Scale is so important, so choosing the right-sized kitchen lighting fixtures will make a huge difference.

'Avoid oversized pendant lights or bulky chandeliers in a small kitchen. While lighting is essential for ambiance, large fixtures take up valuable visual space and can make the kitchen feel even more cramped,' says Guillaume Coutheillas, founder and creative director at frenchCALIFORNIA.

'Opt for sleek, recessed lighting or under-cabinet LED strips. These provide plenty of illumination without overwhelming the space, maintaining an open and airy feel. If you love the look of decorative lighting, consider a slim, linear fixture that complements the scale of the room.'

From larger considerations like the style and size of your cabinetry to smaller fixes like decor and lighting fixtures, avoiding these things is key to creating a small kitchen that balances style and function in a compact space. It's also worth knowing the things to never put on your kitchen countertops and what makes a small kitchen look cheap if you want to ensure your bijou schemes feels elevated.