6. Artwork or Framed Prints

If the space is a blank wall or narrow vertical area, artwork can be surprisingly effective.

Consider:

Food-themed prints
Minimalist line art
Vintage kitchen posters
A framed recipe

This works especially well in kitchens with neutral color palettes.

7. Decorative Lighting

Lighting can transform a small, awkward area into a focal point.

Ideas include:

A small sconce
LED strip lighting
Under-shelf lighting
Accent lighting inside open shelving

Light draws attention—and when done right, it makes the space feel intentional rather than accidental.

Functional But Unexpected Uses for Small Kitchen Spaces

Some of the best solutions are the ones you didn’t initially consider.

8. Charging Station

A small space near an outlet can become a discreet charging hub.

Use it for:

Phones
Tablets
Smart home devices

Add a drawer or shelf to hide cords and keep things tidy.

9. Cookbook Nook

If you love cooking, a dedicated cookbook space is both practical and charming.

Stack books horizontally
Use vertical dividers
Mix in decorative objects for balance

Cookbooks add color and personality to a kitchen.

10. Pet Feeding Station

For pet owners, a small floor-level space can be perfect for:

Food and water bowls
Treat storage
Built-in drawers for pet supplies

This keeps pet items out of walkways and creates a tidy, designated area.

When the Space Is Near the Floor

Low spaces are often overlooked, but they can be incredibly useful.

11. Rolling Carts or Bins

A rolling cart can slide into a small gap and be pulled out when needed.

Great for storing:

Potatoes and onions
Cleaning supplies
Recyclables

Choose a cart that matches your kitchen’s style for a seamless look.

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.