12. Built-In Bench or Stool Storage
In kitchens with eat-in areas, a small nook can house a built-in bench or stools that tuck away neatly.
Creative Uses for Awkward Corners
Corners are notorious for being difficult, but they also offer unique opportunities.
13. Corner Shelving
Floating corner shelves are perfect for displaying:
- Mugs
- Bowls
- Small plants
- Decorative objects
They soften sharp angles and make the most of otherwise unused space.
14. Lazy Susan Cabinet Inserts
If the space is inside a corner cabinet, rotating shelves improve accessibility and eliminate wasted depth.
Making the Space Multi-Functional
Sometimes, the best solution combines function and style.
15. Message Center or Chalkboard
A narrow wall can become a family command center.
Use it for:
- Notes
- Grocery lists
- Schedules
- Inspirational quotes
Magnetic boards or chalkboards are especially popular.
16. Towel and Apron Storage
Hooks or rails can turn a slim wall into a practical storage area for:
- Dish towels
- Aprons
- Oven mitts
This works well near the sink or oven.
Custom Solutions: When Off-the-Shelf Doesn’t Work
If your space is truly unique, a custom solution might be worth considering.
17. Custom Cabinetry or Shelving
Custom doesn’t always mean expensive. A local carpenter or cabinet maker can often design a simple solution that fits perfectly.
18. Built-In Trash or Recycling Pull-Out
Even a small gap can house a slim waste or recycling system, keeping bins hidden and accessible.
What Not to Do with a Small Kitchen Space
Sometimes knowing what to avoid is just as important.
Avoid:
- Overcrowding the space
- Using bulky furniture
- Ignoring proportions
- Adding something purely because it’s trendy
- Leaving it empty without intention
An unused space should look deliberate, not forgotten.
How to Decide What’s Right for Your Kitchen
If you’re still unsure, ask yourself:
- What do I need more of—storage, function, or style?
- Will I use this daily, weekly, or occasionally?
- Does this solution match the rest of my kitchen?
- Will it still work for me in five years?
The best choice is one that supports how you live, cook, and move through your space.
Final Thoughts: Small Spaces Have Big Potential
That little space in your new kitchen might feel like an inconvenience now, but it’s actually an opportunity—a blank canvas waiting for intention.
Whether you turn it into a storage solution, a design feature, or a personal touch that reflects your lifestyle, the right choice can elevate your entire kitchen. Small spaces often end up being the most memorable ones, precisely because they require creativity and thought.
So take your time. Live with the kitchen for a bit. Pay attention to how you move through it and what you wish you had more of.
Chances are, that little space already knows what it wants to become.
