Small kitchen with an island: practical elegance with a custom design
The island in a small kitchen must combine aesthetics, practicality, and versatility. It’s an ideal solution for incorporating multiple functions into a compact space. It can provide additional storage, compartments for small appliances, and a convenient snack counter for quick meals or casual gatherings.
In modern home architecture, aesthetics and functionality are increasingly intertwined, reflecting the deep desire to create highly personalized living spaces that respond to real needs—even when space is limited. The small kitchen with an island perfectly represents this new design mindset: it’s a growing trend that enhances even the most compact environments.
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Minimum dimensions for a kitchen with an island
When planning to introduce an island in a small kitchen, it is essential to define the right proportions to maintain harmony in the space. The minimum area to accommodate a kitchen with an island ranges from 10 to 15 square meters, depending on how the island is configured. It’s also important to consider the distance between the island and the surrounding cabinets, which should be at least 90–100 cm to allow movement and the smooth opening of doors and drawers.
The island itself should have a minimum depth of 60 cm if designed solely as a worktop, but it can extend to 90–120 cm if a cooktop or sink is added. The same rule applies to the length: a practical work surface needs at least 90 cm but can reach 150–200 cm to accommodate different configurations. These dimensions ensure not only a comfortable usability but also greater freedom when preparing everyday meals.
Finally, paying close attention to the placement of doors and windows will help optimize the use of space. Enhancing natural light will make the room feel larger and brighter, making even a small kitchen feel welcoming and airy.
Smart architectural solutions
To make the most of a small kitchen, intelligent and custom-made solutions are essential. Internal drawers and pull-out corner units help optimize every available corner, making everything more accessible and organized.
For even smaller spaces, a wall-mounted island makes the most of an available wall while still offering the charm of this configuration. In contrast, a freestanding island adds dynamism but requires open space on all four sides.
Another option is to design the island with an integrated table—an excellent solution that brings food preparation closer to the area where meals are shared in a warm and unique way.
Lift-up wall units and internal island storage systems are additional space-saving options. Equipped panels and open shelves also help keep the most-used utensils within easy reach without cluttering the visual space.
Tall units and essential furniture: optimize without overloading
When space is limited, it's essential to carefully select furniture that provides storage while maintaining visual clarity. Equipped tall units are an excellent solution, integrating appliances like ovens and refrigerators with spacious pantries to make the most of vertical space.
Choosing tall vertical modules helps expand the space visually, maximizing storage while avoiding a crowded atmosphere. Tall units with pull-out systems are especially functional, allowing easy access even to items stored in high or deep sections.
A well-designed kitchen does not need numerous tall units, but rather a few smart, versatile ones. Keeping things essential is key to creating a space that, while compact, remains elegant, harmonious, and highly functional.
Essential appliances
In a compact kitchen with an island, appliances must be chosen carefully to maximize both practicality and design. Combined refrigerators, induction cooktops, multifunction ovens, and slim dishwashers (45 cm) are practical choices that ensure usability without compromising space. At the same time, their placement should facilitate daily tasks and support the user’s pace and needs.
Where to store dishes, pots and utensils
Proper internal organization is crucial to make the most of available space. The use of organizers and pull-out internal drawers ensures efficient use of vertical space and easier access to frequently used utensils.
These smart solutions not only improve functionality but also add a refined, modern design touch, emphasizing the simple and practical elegance of a contemporary kitchen.
Aesthetics and materials: stylistic consistency, even in small spaces
The choice of materials and finishes is crucial in small spaces. Every detail must be carefully considered to maintain stylistic consistency, avoiding superfluous elements and favoring cohesive aesthetics.
Decorating surfaces with continuous materials avoids visual breaks, adding elegance and uniformity. Likewise, integrated handles or push-pull systems maintain a clean and linear design—ideal for modern styles.
Bright materials, soft textures, and neutral or light colors enhance the perception of space and create a sense of harmony and lightness. On the other hand, bold colors and distinctive accents add strong character, creating a striking design that immediately catches the eye, regardless of the kitchen’s size.
Lighting: functionality and atmosphere
Accurate and well-designed lighting is essential in a compact space. Adjustable spotlights or LED strips under the wall units ensure targeted lighting for work areas, enhancing comfort and safety.
Accent lighting, such as pendant lamps above the island, enriches the space with a sophisticated touch. Additionally, maximizing natural light and selecting colors for surfaces help visually shape the space’s volume.
Conviviality and identity: even a small kitchen can be welcoming
A small kitchen with an island can be a true place for gathering and togetherness. It’s not the size that determines hospitality, but the attention to detail and custom design that reflects personal style and habits.
Even in the most compact spaces, it’s possible to embody the idea of everyday beauty, elevating genuine moments of sharing and social interaction. Custom design becomes the key ally, transforming dimensional constraints into opportunities for style and harmony, meeting real needs without compromising on elegance.
This is exactly what Berloni’s design is based on. We design through a personal and open dialogue with the goal of fulfilling every desire, never accepting compromises. Book an appointment at one of our ateliers to receive a consultation with our designers.
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