Small kitchens can be a design challenge—not just because of a lack of storage and counter space, but also because they can look cluttered and chaotic. As a New Yorker, I know the struggle of truly teeny kitchen spaces and how difficult it can be to design around such a small footprint. To solve your design woes, we spoke to some designers about what trends they’re seeing for small kitchens in 2026 that can help you streamline and upgrade your own space.
Vertical Storage Space
Credit: Photo and design by Third Coast Interiors and Ayr Custom Cabinetry
Adding more vertical storage to a small kitchen is not only practical, but it can also be stylish. Even if you can’t afford to add on to existing cabinets, you can get closed storage (like pretty baskets with lids) for linens, or just store your most prized servingware on top of your cabinets. I do this in my own (rented) apartment, and it brings me joy to see my splatterware and vintage ceramics when I’m in the kitchen.
Jamie Miller, sales and design lead at Ayr Custom Cabinetry, says that, with limited space, it makes sense for design to go vertical and be hidden. He says that utilizing all cabinets and building cabinets that hide appliances keeps your small kitchen uniform, giving it the illusion of more space. “Floor-to-ceiling (storage) really does work to draw your eye up and create the appearance of a larger, taller room,” says Manny Kavouklis, president of CMK Construction Inc.
Try breaking up all those cabinets by sprinkling in a little “jewelry” in the form of interesting hardware and/or fluted glass (like in this project by Ayr Custom Cabinetry and Third Coast Interiors).
Panel-Ready Appliances
Credit: Photo by Adam Potts Design, Design by Kimberly Oxford Interiors
In a recent trip to the Kitchen and Bath Industry Show (KBIS), I found more than ever that appliances are coming panel-ready—that is, able to have fronts installed to blend into cabinetry. “In compact spaces, visual noise magnifies quickly,” says Kimberly Oxford of Kimberly Oxford Interiors. “Fully integrated, panel-ready appliances are becoming less of a luxury and more of a necessity. They allow the cabinetry to carry the visual weight of the room and create a seamless envelope, which in turn makes the kitchen feel larger.”
“Designers are creating a way to hide all of your storage, such as an appliance garage, pocket doors, an integrated refrigerator, and a cabinet that closes completely flush,” says Rich Kingly, an interior designer and renovation expert at Driveway King. “This will help to remove visual distractions, which make small kitchens appear smaller than they actually are.”
Decorative Cabinet Inserts
Credit: Photo by Katie Charlotte Photography, Metal Inserts by Modern Metal, Design by J. Banks Design
Annie Kantor, founder and director of design for Modern Metal, says that cabinet inserts (decorative panels you can use instead of glass) are trending for 2026.
“They work incredibly well for compact kitchens because they allow you to introduce new, compelling, and even personalized design to your space, without expanding your actual cabinet footprint,” she says. “It’s about leaning into what you do have to work with, and making those elements impactful design moments. It’s also a popular choice for homeowners seeking a design update, without the commitment of an entire renovation—a trend you’ll come across anytime there’s economic uncertainty in the air.”
Tight Color Palettes
Credit: Photo by Jennifer Jones, Design by Niche Interiors
“Minimal palettes are trending right now, especially in smaller kitchens,” says Jennifer Jones, principal designer of Niche Interiors. “By limiting the amount of materials and finishes in a space, a kitchen automatically appears more expansive. In the same vein, we are seeing slim, modernist hardware that almost disappears, taking the place of chunky statement knobs and pulls.”
Built-Ins
Credit: Photo by Heather Talbert, Design by Jennifer Kole of Jenami Designs
“One small kitchen trend I’m particularly excited about for 2026 is the use of built-ins to bridge the kitchen with adjacent areas,” says Jennifer Kole of Jenami Designs. “In my designs for smaller spaces, I incorporate built-ins to link two rooms together. This approach keeps the open space cohesive, making a smaller kitchen feel significantly larger while providing a more intentional, designed look.” Plus, it gives you a spot to store treasured cookbooks, prized ceramics, and other pieces you don’t want to put away in closed storage.
Soft, Warm Colors
Credit: Photo by Jacob Snavely, Design bY Marissa Stokes
“We love using soft hues like putty, mushroom, taupe, and clay in small kitchens,” says Marissa Stokes of Marissa Stokes Interior Design. “These tones make compact spaces feel warm, inviting, and layered without overwhelming them,” she says. “I’m especially excited about this shift toward warmer palettes and how beautifully these colors pair with natural wood and marble, adding depth without creating visual clutter.”
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