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5 things that will make your small kitchen look much bigger

By CASACOR Publisher

Submitted at Apr 1, 2026, 10:00 AM

08 min de leitura
5 things that will make your small kitchen look much bigger

(Gustavo Bresciani/Divulgação)

Having a small kitchen doesn't mean giving up comfort, beauty, or practicality. With a few strategic choices, it's possible to completely transform the perception of the space, making it feel larger, more organized, and more pleasant day to day. The sense of spaciousness doesn't depend only on the actual size of the project, but also on factors such as lighting, colors, organization, and even the type of furniture used.

kitchen accessory

(Becca Tapert/Unsplash/Divulgação)

The good news is that you don't need a complex renovation to achieve this effect. Small changes are enough to create a lighter, more functional look — essential for those who use the kitchen frequently. Below, check out five practical solutions that make all the difference.

1. Go for light, uniform colors


Tour the apartment - with a sea view! - of architect Rodrigo Cardoso. In the photo, a kitchen with a sideboard and a slatted wall.

(Luiza Schreier/Divulgação)

Colors play a fundamental role in the perception of space. Light tones such as white, beige, soft gray, and off-white reflect light better and create the feeling of a more open project. In a small kitchen, this strategy helps avoid a "cramped" look.

No demolition, a 185 m² apartment gets a wine cellar and a walk-in closet. Design by Vivian Reimers. In the photo, a kitchen with a breakfast nook and white cabinetry.

(Luiza Schreier/Divulgação)

Moreover, keeping a uniform palette — both in the cabinets and on the walls — contributes to a more continuous, less fragmented look. The fewer harsh contrasts, the greater the sense of spaciousness. If you want to add personality, opt for small pops of color in decorative objects or utensils.

2. Invest in good lighting


Without tearing down walls, a 185 m² apartment gets a wine cellar and a walk-in closet. Design by Vivian Reimers. In the photo, the kitchen with a breakfast area and botanical wallpaper.

(Luiza Schreier/Divulgação)

A well-lit kitchen instantly feels larger. Whenever possible, make the most of natural light, avoiding blocking windows with heavy curtains or tall furniture. If natural lighting is limited, complement it with well-distributed points of artificial light.

Sliding doors and an open layout showcase the view in this 232 m² apartment. Design by Paula Neder. In the photo, a galley-style kitchen integrated with the breakfast area.

(André Nazareth/Divulgação)

Light fixtures under cabinets, ceiling spots, and LED strips are excellent allies. Besides being functional, these resources create visual depth and highlight specific areas, such as the countertop, contributing to a more welcoming and spacious project.

3. Use custom or compact furniture


Various plants bring nature into this 80 m² apartment. Design by Ana Cano. In the photo, a kitchen with green cabinetry.

Projeto de Ana Cano. (Lilia Mendel/Divulgação)

In small kitchens, every centimeter counts. That's why custom cabinetry or multifunctional pieces are great allies. They let you make better use of the spaces, including corners that would normally be wasted.

Renovation enhances the original structure of a 68 m² apartment in Brasília. Project by Bloco Arquitetos. In the photo, a kitchen with yellow cabinetry.

(Júlia Totoli/Divulgação)

Cabinets up to the ceiling, for example, increase storage capacity without taking up more floor area. Drop-leaf tables, countertops that fold down, or compact appliances help keep circulation free — an essential factor for conveying a sense of space.

4. Reduce visual clutter


Apartment gains airiness with neutral décor and fluid circulation. Project by Sabrina Salles. In the photo, kitchen with white cabinetry.

Projeto de Sabrina Salles. (Julia Novoa/Divulgação)

Excess of items in sight can make any project seem smaller than it really is. In the kitchen, that includes scattered utensils, packages, appliances, and even too many decorative items.

Signature design and bespoke millwork are highlights of this 250 m² apartment. Project by Fernanda Medeiros. In the photo, a kitchen with a breakfast nook and orange tile.

(Luiza Schreier/Divulgação)

The tip is to prioritize organization and leave only the essentials visible. Use organizers inside, standardized jars, and closed cabinets to keep everything in place. The cleaner the visual composition, the lighter and larger the kitchen will appear.

5. Opt for reflective surfaces


A carioca home filled with contemporary design and charming millwork. Project by Claudia Infante. In the photo, a kitchen with subway tiles.

(Gustavo Bresciani/Divulgação)

Materials that reflect light help visually expand the space. Glass, stainless steel, glossy finishes, and even finishes with a slight sheen are great choices for small kitchens.

A light, relaxing atmosphere sets the tone for the décor of this 90 m² Rio apartment. Design by Ricardo Melo and Rodrigo Passos. In the photo, a kitchen with patterned flooring and blue cabinetry.

(Raiana Medina/Divulgação)

A backsplash with a satin finish or cabinets with slightly glossy doors, for example, are enough to create this effect. Mirrors can also be used carefully, especially on strategic walls, to double the sense of depth.

CASACOR Publisher is an exclusive content-creation agent, developed by the CASACOR Technology team from the knowledge base of casacor.com.br. This text was edited by Yeska Coelho.