Does your kitchen feel like more of a hassle than a help? If you’re always struggling with cluttered benchtops, limited storage, and a layout that makes cooking harder than it should be, you’re not alone.
Many Aussies have small kitchens, but that doesn’t mean they can’t be functional and stylish. With smart design choices, clever storage solutions, and simple DIY upgrades, you can turn your kitchen into a space that works for you.
How to renovate a small kitchen
Here are some of the best ways to make your kitchen functional and affordable.
Evaluate Your Kitchen and Set a Practical Budget
Start by examining your kitchen space before starting any improvement work. Does your kitchen space have storage problems or bad lighting, plus a strange design? Your analysis of kitchen problems will show you where to direct your focus.
When you know what to fix, you can create your spending plan. Be honest about what you can afford and put your money towards upgrades that will give you the most value for every dollar spent. Some budget-friendly ideas include:
- Flat pack cabinetry – an affordable way to create custom storage that fits your space.
- DIY benchtop upgrades – a simple swap can completely refresh the look of your kitchen.
- Clever storage solutions – pull-out racks, wall cabinets, and drawer organisers can help keep everything tidy and within reach.
Doing some DIY tasks will help you reduce your costs further when you choose to handle specific aspects of the work, and DIY Flatpacks has all DIY cabinetry you might need to rebuild your small kitchen on a budget.
Design an Efficient Layout for Easy Movement
The layout design determines everything in a compact kitchen space. The kitchen work triangle concept involves smooth movement between refrigerator and stove and sink areas to maximise efficiency.
If your space feels cramped or inefficient, consider one of these layouts that work well in small kitchens:
- Galley Kitchen – Fits well in narrow spaces with its cabinets and appliances arranged on opposite walls.
- L-Shaped Kitchen – Uses two connected walls to create a room that is easy to navigate.
- Single-Wall Kitchen – A smart, space-saving choice for small homes and apartments.
Although a large kitchen island is not feasible, some additional bench space is still possible. If a full-sized island doesn’t fit, consider a compact alternative like a small island for a small kitchen or a benchtop extension.
Maximise Your Storage with Smart Organisation
Using your space wisely makes organising a small kitchen easier. Instead of adding more cupboards, focus on better storage solutions for what you already have.
- Think vertically – Install shelves and hanging rails above your benchtop to provide easy access to utensils and pots and spices.
- Keep drawers organised – Use dividers to organise your drawers because this prevents cutlery and cooking tools from becoming messy.
- Improve pantry access – Pull-out shelves installed in pantries allow easy access to all food items, thus preventing items from getting forgotten at the back.
- Make furniture do more – A foldable table can be used for meal prep and dining while saving space when not in use.
Flat pack cabinets are a great way to customise your storage while staying on budget. Whether you need extra shelving or a small, functional island, DIY Flat Pack has customisable options to suit any kitchen.
Upgrade Your Kitchen with Affordable DIY Improvements
You don’t need a full renovation to give your small kitchen a fresh, modern look. A few affordable, DIY-friendly updates can make a huge difference in how your kitchen looks and feels. Here are some easy ways to update your kitchen on a budget:
- Repaint your cabinets – A new colour and updated handles can completely change the look of your kitchen.
- Add a peel-and-stick splashback – A quick and inexpensive way to bring in some personality and texture.
- Upgrade your benchtop – Swap out your existing surface for a custom DIY benchtop that fits your kitchen perfectly.
- Replace old lighting – Switching to energy-efficient fixtures will brighten up your kitchen and improve its look.
DIY upgrades help you update your kitchen on a budget while letting you add your own style.
Brighten and Expand Your Space with Colour and Lighting
The right colours and lighting can make a big difference in how your small kitchen looks and feels. Proper lighting combined with suitable color tones transforms a space into a larger and brighter area that feels welcoming.
White and beige, along with soft grey tones, reflect light, which enlarges the kitchen's appearance.
The installation of under-cabinet lighting provides better lighting to your benchtops without requiring additional floor space for meal preparation.
If you want to add depth, consider mirrored or glossy splashbacks, which help bounce light around and give the illusion of extra space.
Get Custom DIY Flat Pack Cabinets and Benchtops for Your Kitchen
If you’re searching for an affordable way to make the most of your small kitchen, our flat pack solutions at DIY Flat Packs are the perfect fit.
Our custom DIY benchtops are a great way to increase prep space while giving your small kitchen a fresh, modern look. Whether you're exploring small kitchen ideas or searching for small kitchen designs that maximise space, our DIY-friendly benchtops and cabinets offer a stylish and practical upgrade.
Start transforming your kitchen today with our flat pack cabinets and benchtops. Browse our range here and find the perfect fit for your space!