Small Kitchen, Big Flavor: Organizing for the Home Cook with A “Too Small” Kitchen
If you love to cook but your kitchen is barely bigger than a closet, you’re not alone. Tiny kitchens are common—but they don’t have to limit your creativity, your meals, or your sense of calm.
I’ve worked with many clients who find deep joy in cooking, but who feel constantly overwhelmed by overflowing drawers, cluttered countertops, and the ever-growing collection of spices, gadgets, and pans they actually use.
And here’s what I always say: you don’t need a big kitchen to feel like a confident, joyful cook. You just need a smart, intentional space that works for you.
Here’s how I approach organizing small kitchens for passionate home chefs:
1. Start with the “Essentials, Not Extras” Mindset
When space is tight, every item needs to earn its place. Ask yourself:
Do I use this regularly?
Do I love using it?
Is it a duplicate or overly specialized?
You may not need three sets of measuring cups or that spiralizer you used once in 2017. But if your grandmother’s mixing bowl makes you feel grounded and happy when you bake, I say keep it.
2. Think Vertical and Visible
Tiny kitchens rarely lack wall space—they just don’t use it wisely.
Add magnetic strips for knives and metal tools
Hang a pegboard or wall rail for utensils or small pans
Install open shelves for frequently used items (and display them beautifully!)
Seeing your tools at a glance reduces frustration and decision fatigue.
3. Zone Like a Pro
Even in a small kitchen, creating zones helps:
A prep zone with cutting boards, knives, mixing bowls
A cooking zone with spices, oils, and utensils
A cleaning zone with dish supplies and towels
A baking zone (if you bake) with flours, sugars, and tools
This approach saves steps, and your sanity.
4. Use Containers That Work for You
No two cooks are the same. If stacking containers stresses you out, use pull-out baskets. If you're visual, go for clear bins or labeled jars. If you're tactile, use open bins that are easy to grab and go.
Function over aesthetics - always.
5. Make Room for Ritual
This is one of my favorite tips: carve out one little nook, drawer, or shelf just for you. A favorite cookbook, a tiny salt cellar, a candle, a handwritten recipe from someone you love. Your kitchen should feel yours, no matter how small.
A small kitchen doesn’t mean you’re limited; it means you’re invited to be more intentional. With a little creativity, some thoughtful editing, and smart systems, even the tiniest kitchen can become the heart of your home.
And as someone who helps people organize all kinds of spaces, I can tell you: it’s not about how much room you have, it’s about how supported you feel in the space you’re in.
If you're ready to reimagine your kitchen (no renovation required), I'm here to help you make it work beautifully for the cook you already are.
Happy Cooking!
Merrie
