23 Small Basement Kitchen That Maximizes Every Inch

Transforming a tiny basement into a functional kitchen might feel impossible when you’re staring at those low ceilings and awkward corners.
But what if those challenging features could actually work in your favor?
With clever design tricks and smart storage solutions, even the smallest underground space can become a charming, hardworking kitchen that proves size doesn’t limit style.
Table of Contents
Modern Farmhouse: Small Basement Kitchen With Shiplap Walls and Compact Island

Picture your favorite HGTV reveal but in your basement—that’s the magic of shiplap walls paired with a petite island. This style brings Joanna Gaines energy to compact spaces, creating that coffee-with-girlfriends atmosphere even underground. White shiplap instantly brightens windowless areas while the island becomes your prep station, homework hub, and wine-tasting counter rolled into one.
Shop The Look:
- White shaker cabinets with brushed nickel hardware and matching compact island
- Round pedestal breakfast nook table in distressed white finish
- Windsor-style bar stools in natural wood (set of 2-3)
- Brushed nickel pendant lights with Edison bulbs
- Striped cotton runner rug in navy and cream (2’x6′)
- Mini pendant lights with clear glass shades
- Gingham cafe curtains or Roman shades in soft gray
- White ceramic canisters with wood lids for coffee and tea storage
- Framed vintage farm signs or floating shelves with mason jar displays
DIY Paint Transformation
- Shiplap perfection: Apply “Pure White” (Sherwin Williams) on shiplap walls to maximize light reflection and create that bright, airy farmhouse backdrop.
- Cabinet charm: Use “Alabaster” (Sherwin Williams) on cabinets for a softer white that won’t clash with shiplap but adds subtle depth.
- Island anchor: Paint your compact island in “Naval” (Sherwin Williams) to add personality and hide fingerprints from daily family traffic.
Budget Range: $8,000-$18,000 | Timeline: 2-3 weeks | Best For: Narrow basement spaces under 150 sq ft
Traditional: Every Inch Utilized With Floor-To-Ceiling Cabinetry in Basement Kitchen

Think of those gorgeous English manor kitchens on Bridgerton but sized for real life—where every cabinet door and drawer maximizes your square footage like a perfectly organized walk-in closet. This is storage goals meets timeless elegance, creating that “inherited from grandma but actually brand new” aesthetic your favorite home influencers obsess over.
Shop The Look:
- Shaker-style floor-to-ceiling cabinets in cream or sage
- Round pedestal breakfast nook table in distressed wood
- Windsor-back dining chairs with cushioned seats
- Antique brass pendant lights with glass shades
- Persian-style kitchen runner in burgundy and navy (2.5’x7′)
- Schoolhouse pendant lights with milk glass globes
- Gingham cafe curtains in soft blue or green
- Blue and white ceramic canisters with wooden lids
- Vintage-inspired copper pots displayed on open shelving
DIY Paint Transformation
- Cabinet magic: Benjamin Moore “Cloud White” OC-130 on all cabinetry creates that British countryside kitchen vibe while reflecting light in windowless basements.
- Island accent: Sherwin Williams “Rosemary” SW 6187 on a center island adds that heritage green that’s trending everywhere from Target to Pottery Barn.
- Wall backdrop: Benjamin Moore “Revere Pewter” HC-172 gives walls that perfect greige that makes white cabinets pop without feeling sterile.
Budget Range: $18,000-$35,000 | Timeline: 4-6 weeks | Best For: Narrow basement spaces under 150 square feet
Industrial: Exposed Brick Wall With Metal Bar Stools

That exposed brick wall is giving major Brooklyn loft energy—like your favorite coffee shop merged with a trendy restaurant. Metal bar stools against raw brick creates that perfect industrial-chic contrast we’re all pinning lately. This style works overtime, making compact basements feel intentionally designed rather than forgotten.
Shop The Look:
- Distressed wood kitchen island with black iron frame
- Reclaimed wood dining table with metal pipe legs
- Industrial metal bar stools with wood seats (set of 3-4)
- Black iron cage pendant lights or Edison bulb chandelier
- Vintage-style Persian runner rug in rust tones (2.5’x8′)
- Black metal pendant lights with exposed Edison bulbs
- Black metal blinds or no window treatment for authentic industrial feel
- Glass apothecary jars with metal lids for storage
- Vintage metal signs or floating pipe shelves with minimal ceramics
DIY Paint Transformation
- Accent wall drama: Paint one wall in “Iron Ore” (Sherwin Williams SW 7069) to complement exposed brick and create depth in windowless spaces.
- Cabinet revival: Use “Kendall Charcoal” (Benjamin Moore HC-166) on lower cabinets for that sophisticated industrial vibe that hides fingerprints.
- Ceiling trick: Apply “Urbane Bronze” (Sherwin Williams SW 7048) on the ceiling to embrace the moody industrial aesthetic while making low ceilings feel intentional.
Budget Range: $8,000-$18,000 | Timeline: 2-3 weeks | Best For: Narrow basement kitchens with existing brick walls
rie Style: Horizontal Wood Grain Cabinets With Geometric Tiles

That Frank Lloyd Wright aesthetic hits different in a basement kitchen—like wearing vintage band tees but making them look expensive. Prairie style brings those clean horizontal lines that trick your eye into thinking the space is wider (basically the design version of wearing stripes). Your friends will assume you hired someone from HGTV.
Shop The Look:
- Horizontal grain oak cabinets with elongated hardware
- Live-edge walnut dining table with steel base
- Mission-style leather and wood counter stools
- Copper or bronze geometric pendant fixtures
- Natural fiber runner with prairie-inspired patterns
- Amber glass Edison bulb pendants
- Bamboo roller shades with wood valance
- Stoneware storage jars with wood lids
- Geometric tile backsplash art or horizontal floating shelves
DIY Paint Transformation
- Ceiling lift: Benjamin Moore “Cloud White” OC-130 on the ceiling creates height while letting those horizontal wood grains be the star
- Accent wall: Sherwin Williams “Urbane Bronze” SW-7048 behind open shelving adds that earthy sophistication prairie homes are known for
- Trim detail: Benjamin Moore “Wrought Iron” 2124-10 on window frames echoes the geometric tile patterns without overwhelming
Budget Range: $15,000-$28,000 | Timeline: 4-5 weeks | Best For: Low-ceiling basements needing visual width
Coastal: Maximized Small Space With Light Colors and Open Shelving Below Ground

That beachy breakfast nook aesthetic you saved on Pinterest? Totally achievable in your basement. Light colors and open shelving transform underground spaces into airy retreats that feel like your favorite Hamptons coffee shop. It’s giving coastal grandmother meets millennial minimalism—perfect for morning smoothie bowls and wine nights alike.
Shop The Look:
- White shaker cabinets with brushed nickel hardware
- Whitewashed round pedestal dining table
- Natural rattan counter stools with white cushions
- White glass pendant lights or coastal-inspired chandelier
- Navy and white striped kitchen runner (2.5’x7′)
- Clear glass globe pendants with rope detailing
- White sheer cafe curtains with subtle texture
- Clear glass storage canisters with bamboo lids
- Coastal wall art prints or white floating shelves with coral decor
DIY Paint Transformation
- Cabinet makeover: Benjamin Moore “Cloud White” OC-130 on all cabinetry creates that bright, beachy vibe while reflecting limited basement light.
- Accent wall: Sherwin Williams “Sea Salt” SW-6204 on one wall adds subtle coastal color without overwhelming the space.
- Ceiling brightener: Benjamin Moore “Super White” OC-152 on the ceiling maximizes light reflection and creates height illusion.
Budget Range: $10,000-$22,000 | Timeline: 2-3 weeks | Best For: Narrow basement kitchens with limited natural light
Transitional: Basement Kitchen Featuring Wall-Mounted Storage and Fold-Down Table

That fold-down table life hits different when you’re juggling WFH and meal prep in the same square footage. Think coffee shop efficiency meets your favorite boutique hotel—every inch works harder than your favorite multitasking serum. Wall-mounted everything means floor space stays clear for impromptu dance parties while dinner simmers.
Shop The Look:
- Floating wall cabinets in white oak with soft-close hinges
- Wall-mounted drop-leaf table in natural bamboo
- Backless counter stools that tuck completely under
- Streamlined under-cabinet LED light strips
- Washable cotton runner in charcoal stripe (2’x6′)
- Adjustable swing-arm wall sconces in brass
- Sheer white roller shades for privacy without darkness
- Clear acrylic wall-mounted spice containers
- Floating picture ledge with rotating art prints
DIY Paint Transformation
- Cabinet makeover: Benjamin Moore’s “Cloud White” OC-130 on all cabinetry creates that fresh-start feeling that makes Monday mornings less painful
- Accent wall magic: Sherwin Williams “Urbane Bronze” SW 7048 behind open shelving adds depth without overwhelming the compact space
- Ceiling trick: Benjamin Moore “Palladian Blue” HC-144 on the ceiling draws eyes up and makes 7-foot ceilings feel like 9
Budget Range: $8,000-$15,000 | Timeline: 2-3 weeks | Best For: Narrow basement spaces under 100 sq ft
Contemporary: Small Lower Level Kitchen With Sleek Built-In Appliances

Sleek basement kitchens with integrated appliances are giving off major boutique hotel vibes—think your favorite minimalist coffee shop but make it functional for meal prep. This style speaks to anyone tired of visible microwaves and chunky appliances cluttering their countertops. It’s the kitchen equivalent of those perfectly curated closets where everything has its hidden place.
Shop The Look:
- Flat-panel cabinets in high-gloss white or gray with push-to-open hardware
- Waterfall edge quartz breakfast bar with integrated seating
- Low-profile counter stools in chrome and white leather
- Flush-mount LED panel lights or recessed lighting system
- Gray geometric kitchen runner (2.5’x10′)
- Linear pendant lights with brushed nickel finish
- Motorized cellular shades in light-filtering white
- Stainless steel magnetic spice containers
- Minimalist black and white photography or floating acrylic shelves
DIY Paint Transformation
- Cabinet update: Benjamin Moore “Cloud White” OC-130 on all cabinetry creates that seamless, gallery-like backdrop that makes built-ins disappear into walls
- Accent wall: Sherwin Williams “Iron Ore” SW-7069 behind open shelving adds depth without overwhelming the compact space
- Ceiling treatment: Benjamin Moore “Super White” OC-152 on ceiling and trim maximizes light reflection in typically darker basement settings
Budget Range: $18,000-$35,000 | Timeline: 4-6 weeks | Best For: Narrow basement layouts under 150 square feet
Cottage: Every Inch Optimized With Corner Sink and Diagonal Cabinets

That cottage kitchen aesthetic where every corner works harder than your morning espresso machine. Picture diagonal cabinets creating unexpected storage angles—like finding the perfect vintage blazer with hidden pockets. Corner sinks become sculptural statements while maximizing counter space for your sourdough starter collection.
Shop The Look:
- White shaker cabinets with diagonal corner units and soft-close drawers
- Round pedestal breakfast nook table in distressed white finish
- Windsor-style dining chairs with rush seats (set of 4)
- Copper farmhouse range hood or schoolhouse pendant fixtures
- Blue and white striped cotton runner rug (2’x6′)
- Glass bell pendant lights with Edison bulbs
- Gingham cafe curtains or Roman shades in natural linen
- White ceramic canisters with wood lids and labels
- Vintage-inspired metal signs or floating shelves with mason jar storage
DIY Paint Transformation
- Cabinet makeover: Benjamin Moore “Cloud White” OC-130 on all cabinetry creates that fresh farmhouse look while reflecting light into dark basement corners.
- Accent wall charm: Sherwin Williams “Sea Salt” SW-6204 behind open shelving adds subtle coastal cottage vibes without overwhelming the compact space.
- Ceiling brightener: Benjamin Moore “Simply White” OC-117 on basement ceilings makes low heights feel cathedral-like and bounces natural light everywhere.
Budget Range: $8,000-$18,000 | Timeline: 2-3 weeks | Best For: Basement corners under 100 square feet
Scandinavian: Small Below-Grade Kitchen With Minimalist Design and Hidden Storage

That clean-lined Nordic aesthetic you’ve been saving on Pinterest? It actually works brilliantly in basements where natural light is precious. Think IKEA showroom meets cozy coffee shop—white walls, blonde wood, and clever storage that makes clutter literally disappear.
Shop The Look:
- White flat-panel cabinets with integrated handles
- Light birch breakfast nook table with built-in storage
- White molded plastic dining chairs with wood legs
- Minimalist white range hood with hidden controls
- Natural fiber runner rug in cream (2.5’x10′)
- Simple glass globe pendant lights
- White roller blinds or sheer linen panels
- Clear glass storage canisters with bamboo lids
- White ceramic vases and wooden cutting boards for open shelving
DIY Paint Transformation
- Ceiling brightening: Apply “Cloud White” (Benjamin Moore) on ceiling and upper walls to maximize light reflection and create height illusion
- Cabinet refresh: Use “Simply White” (Benjamin Moore) on all cabinetry for that pristine Scandinavian gallery look
- Accent wall: Paint one wall in “Repose Gray” (Sherwin Williams) to add subtle depth without darkening the space
Budget Range: $8,000-$18,000 | Timeline: 2-3 weeks | Best For: Narrow basement kitchens with low ceilings
Craftsman: Every Inch Working With Custom Millwork in Compact Basement

That cozy cabin aesthetic meets modern functionality when custom millwork transforms every awkward basement corner into purposeful storage. Think built-in banquettes that double as pantry space, ceiling-height cabinets maximizing vertical real estate, and clever pull-out drawers tucked into formerly dead zones. It’s giving artisan coffee shop energy where handcrafted details make small spaces feel intentionally curated rather than cramped.
Shop The Look:
- Shaker-style maple cabinets with crown molding detail
- Built-in corner breakfast nook with storage bench
- Windsor-back dining chairs in natural oak finish
- Hammered copper range hood or craftsman-style pendant fixtures
- Vintage-inspired Persian runner rug in rust and navy
- Mission-style pendant lights with amber glass shades
- Natural burlap roman shades with wood trim
- Mason jar storage containers with wooden lids
- Vintage copper measuring cups displayed on floating shelves
DIY Paint Transformation
- Cabinet upgrade: Benjamin Moore “Cloud White” OC-130 on upper cabinets creates breathing room while letting natural wood lowers ground the space
- Accent wall magic: Sherwin Williams “Urbane Bronze” SW 7048 behind open shelving adds depth without overwhelming tight quarters
- Ceiling trick: Benjamin Moore “White Heron” OC-57 painted on basement ceilings reflects light and visually raises low clearance areas
Budget Range: $18,000-$35,000 | Timeline: 4-6 weeks | Best For: Basement kitchens with challenging layouts
Mediterranean: Small Lower Level Kitchen With Arched Niche Storage Solutions

Picture your favorite Italian restaurant’s cozy wine cellar meets modern functionality—that’s this Mediterranean basement kitchen with its signature arched niches. Those curved alcoves aren’t just pretty; they’re genius storage that makes your spice collection look like decor. It’s giving vacation home energy while maximizing every inch of lower-level square footage.
Shop The Look:
- Cream-colored shaker cabinets with antique brass hardware
- Rustic wood dining table with turned legs
- Woven rush seat dining chairs (set of 4)
- Copper or aged brass range hood with decorative detailing
- Terra cotta and blue patterned kitchen runner (2.5’x10′)
- Wrought iron pendant lights with amber glass
- Natural linen Roman shades with embroidered trim
- Hand-painted ceramic canisters in blues and yellows
- Decorative tile backsplash art or pottery display for open shelving
DIY Paint Transformation
- Warm base coat: Benjamin Moore’s “White Sand” (OC-10) on walls creates that sun-washed plaster look without actual texturing techniques.
- Niche accent: Sherwin Williams “Cavern Clay” (SW 7701) inside arched alcoves adds terracotta warmth that makes dishes and glassware pop.
- Cabinet refresh: Benjamin Moore “Cloud White” (OC-130) keeps cabinets bright in basement lighting while staying true to Mediterranean simplicity.
Budget Range: $18,000-$32,000 | Timeline: 4-5 weeks | Best For: Basement kitchens with low ceilings needing visual height
Mid-Century Modern: Basement Kitchen Maximizing Space With Floating Counters

That Mad Men aesthetic meets your morning smoothie routine—think sleek walnut floating counters that make your basement feel like a trendy downtown loft. It’s giving sophisticated minimalism where every inch counts, like organizing your capsule wardrobe but for kitchen space.
Shop The Look:
- Walnut floating kitchen island with hairpin legs
- Compact round tulip dining table in white
- Orange or mustard velvet bar stools (set of 3)
- Geometric brass pendant light fixture
- Vintage-inspired runner rug in burnt orange (2’x6′)
- Sputnik pendant lights in polished brass
- White aluminum mini blinds or bamboo roller shades
- Teak wood canisters with cork lids
- Atomic-era wall clock or floating walnut shelves with ceramic planters
DIY Paint Transformation
- Cabinet makeover: Benjamin Moore “Cloud White” (OC-130) on upper cabinets creates that floating effect while bouncing light around your basement space.
- Accent wall magic: Sherwin Williams “Cavern Clay” (SW 7701) behind open shelving adds that perfect retro pop without overwhelming the compact area.
- Ceiling illusion: Benjamin Moore “Hale Navy” (HC-154) on the ceiling draws the eye up, making low basement ceilings feel intentionally cozy rather than cramped.
Budget Range: $8,000-$18,000 | Timeline: 2-3 weeks | Best For: Narrow basement spaces under 150 sq ft
Rustic: Small Underground Kitchen With Ceiling Beams Doubling as Pot Storage

Those exposed ceiling beams become your favorite storage hack—like turning structural necessities into rustic pot racks that Food Network hosts would envy. This underground kitchen aesthetic channels cozy cabin energy with French countryside practicality. Your friends will assume you hired someone from that viral TikTok designer’s team.
Shop The Look:
- Reclaimed wood kitchen cabinets with wrought iron hardware
- Farmhouse dining table in distressed pine finish
- Ladder-back wooden chairs with rush seats
- Copper or aged brass pendant lights with Edison bulbs
- Natural fiber runner rug in neutral tones (2.5’x10′)
- Black iron pot rack chains for beam storage
- Burlap roman shades or checked gingham curtains
- Stoneware crocks and wooden cutting board displays
- Vintage reproduction signs or mason jar wall sconces
DIY Paint Transformation
- Cabinet makeover: Benjamin Moore “Cloud White” OC-130 on upper cabinets creates breathing room against dark basement walls while keeping the rustic vibe authentic.
- Lower cabinet drama: Sherwin Williams “Iron Ore” SW-7069 grounds the space and hides scuffs from daily use in high-traffic underground kitchens.
- Accent wall character: Benjamin Moore “Sage Wisdom” CSP-775 behind open shelving adds that collected-over-time European farmhouse feel.
Budget Range: $15,000-$28,000 | Timeline: 4-5 weeks | Best For: Low-ceiling basement spaces
Shabby Chic: Every Inch Charming With Vintage Ladder Shelving in Basement

That cottage-core aesthetic from your favorite vintage thrift finds just landed in your basement kitchen. Think farmhouse market meets French flea market—where mismatched charm is the whole point. This is for the girl who saves mason jars and actually uses them, turning weekend estate sale finds into functional decor.
Shop The Look:
- Distressed white or cream kitchen cabinets with vintage brass pulls
- Reclaimed wood farmhouse dining table with turned legs
- Mismatched vintage-style dining chairs in cream and pale blue
- Antique brass pendant lights or milk glass schoolhouse fixtures
- Faded floral or striped cotton runner rug (2.5’x7′)
- Glass jar pendant lights with Edison bulbs
- Gingham or toile cafe curtains with tie-backs
- Vintage-inspired ceramic canisters with French labels
- Vintage ladder shelf with antique plates and dried lavender bundles
DIY Paint Transformation
- Cabinet makeover: Benjamin Moore “Cloud White” OC-130 on cabinets creates that perfectly imperfect chalky finish that looks inherited from grandma.
- Accent wall: Sherwin Williams “Sea Salt” SW-6204 behind open shelving adds subtle vintage green that makes white dishes pop.
- Ceiling charm: Benjamin Moore “Linen White” OC-146 on beadboard ceiling panels brings authentic farmhouse texture overhead.
Budget Range: $8,000-$18,000 | Timeline: 2-3 weeks | Best For: Compact basement kitchens with low ceilings
Colonial: Maximized Small Kitchen With Built-In Banquette Seating Below

That breakfast nook you keep saving on Pinterest? This colonial-inspired basement kitchen with built-in banquette seating brings it to life. Think cozy coffee shop corner meets practical family hub—where morning pancakes and evening homework sessions happen in equal measure.
Shop The Look:
- White shaker-style kitchen cabinets with brass hardware
- Round pedestal dining table in distressed white finish
- Built-in banquette with navy cushions and storage underneath
- Traditional brass pendant lights with glass shades
- Navy and cream striped kitchen runner (2.5’x10′)
- Schoolhouse-style pendant lights over banquette
- Gingham cafe curtains in navy check pattern
- White ceramic canisters with wooden lids
- Vintage-inspired metal signs or colonial-style plate rack
DIY Paint Transformation
- Cabinet makeover: Benjamin Moore “Cloud White” OC-130 on all cabinetry creates that timeless colonial backdrop while making your basement feel brighter and more spacious.
- Banquette accent: Sherwin Williams “Naval” SW-6244 on the banquette base adds depth and sophistication while hiding scuff marks from daily use.
- Wall complement: Benjamin Moore “Hale Navy” HC-154 as an accent wall behind the banquette creates a cozy dining atmosphere that feels intentionally designed.
Budget Range: $15,000-$28,000 | Timeline: 4-5 weeks | Best For: Narrow basement kitchens needing dining solutions
Eclectic: Basement Kitchen Using Every Wall With Mix-And-Match Open Storage

That curated-chaos aesthetic where your kitchen looks like a Brooklyn cafe crossed with your coolest friend’s apartment. Mix vintage finds with sleek basics—think mismatched plates displayed next to minimalist canisters. Every wall becomes functional art when open shelving turns your prettiest dishes into decor.
Shop The Look:
- Wall-mounted modular shelving system in mixed wood and metal
- Compact butcher block kitchen cart on wheels
- Mismatched vintage-style dining chairs (set of 4)
- Industrial pipe pendant lights with Edison bulbs
- Moroccan-style runner rug in jewel tones (2.5’x7′)
- Mixed metal pendant lights in copper and brass
- Macrame or patterned Roman shades
- Glass apothecary jars and woven baskets for storage
- Gallery wall mix of vintage signs and floating shelf displays
DIY Paint Transformation
- Accent wall drama: Paint one wall in “Hague Blue” (Farrow & Ball) to create depth and make open shelving pop against the moody backdrop.
- Cabinet mix: Use “Sage Green” (Benjamin Moore 2139-30) on lower cabinets while keeping uppers in crisp white for that collected-over-time look.
- Ceiling surprise: Apply “Copper Harbor” (Benjamin Moore 2162-20) to the ceiling for unexpected warmth that ties together mixed metals.
Budget Range: $8,000-$18,000 | Timeline: 2-3 weeks | Best For: Narrow basement spaces with limited square footage
Boho: Small Lower Level Space With Macrame Hanging Fruit Baskets

That cozy coffee shop corner you love? Now it lives in your basement. Macrame fruit baskets swinging from exposed beams give major urban jungle vibes while saving precious counter space. Think Anthropologie display meets functional storage—where your produce becomes part of the decor.
Shop The Look:
- White shaker cabinets with rattan panel inserts
- Round wooden breakfast nook table with carved base
- Woven rattan bar stools with cushions
- Brass dome pendant lights with fringe detail
- Moroccan-style runner rug in terracotta and cream
- Beaded pendant lights in natural wood
- Macrame cafe curtains in natural cotton
- Woven baskets for pantry storage
- Gallery wall with dried florals and woven wall hangings
DIY Paint Transformation
- Accent wall drama: Paint one wall in “Canyon Clay” (Benjamin Moore) to create that earthy backdrop that makes your macrame pieces pop against the warmth.
- Cabinet refresh: Use “Cloud White” (Benjamin Moore) on existing cabinets for that bright, airy feel that bounces light around your lower level space.
- Ceiling surprise: Try “Hale Navy” (Benjamin Moore) on the ceiling to add unexpected depth while making white macrame pieces look like floating art.
Budget Range: $8,000-$15,000 | Timeline: 2-3 weeks | Best For: Small basement kitchens with low ceilings
English Country: Maximizing Every Inch With Welsh Dresser in Basement Kitchen

That cottagecore aesthetic from your favorite British baking show meets practical American storage solutions. Welsh dressers turn tiny basement kitchens into charming tea rooms where your mismatched vintage plates finally make sense. It’s giving main character energy in a Nancy Meyers movie—cozy, collected, impossibly organized.
Shop The Look:
- Cream shaker-style cabinets with cup pulls
- Round pedestal breakfast nook table in distressed white
- Windsor-style dining chairs with rush seats
- Brass bridge faucet and matching pendant fixtures
- Braided jute runner in natural and cream tones
- Glass schoolhouse pendants with brass hardware
- Gingham check cafe curtains in soft blue
- Stoneware storage canisters with wood lids
- Vintage-style plate rack with displayed china pieces
DIY Paint Transformation
- Cabinet makeover: Benjamin Moore “Cloud White” OC-130 on all cabinetry creates that authentic English cottage brightness that bounces light around windowless basements.
- Welsh dresser accent: Sherwin Williams “Dorian Gray” SW 7017 on the dresser back panel adds subtle contrast while keeping the vintage charm intact.
- Wall character: Benjamin Moore “Windham Cream” HC-6 wraps the space in warmth without competing with your displayed dishware collection.
Budget Range: $8,000-$15,000 | Timeline: 2-3 weeks | Best For: Compact basement kitchens under 150 sq ft
Art Deco: Small Below-Ground Kitchen With Mirrored Backsplash for Spaciousness

Picture your favorite speakeasy bar meets that luxe hotel powder room you photographed on vacation—that’s this basement kitchen energy. The mirrored backsplash doubles your space visually while channeling serious Great Gatsby vibes that make meal prep feel like hosting a cocktail party.
Shop The Look:
- Glossy black lacquered cabinets with gold hardware
- Round marble-top dining table with brass base
- Velvet upholstered bar stools in emerald or navy
- Geometric brass pendant light fixture or chandelier
- Black and gold geometric runner rug (2.5’x8′)
- Art deco-style pendant lights with frosted glass
- Gold metallic roman shades or black velvet curtains
- Glass canisters with gold lids for countertop storage
- Sunburst mirrors or brass bar cart for open shelving
DIY Paint Transformation
- Cabinet glamour: Benjamin Moore “Black Beauty” (2128-10) on lower cabinets creates that moody sophistication while the mirror backsplash keeps things bright
- Ceiling drama: Sherwin Williams “Urbane Bronze” (SW 7048) on the ceiling adds unexpected depth that makes low basement ceilings feel intentional
- Wall luxe: Benjamin Moore “Cloud White” (OC-130) keeps walls crisp and clean, letting your mirrored backsplash and metallic accents steal the show
Budget Range: $18,000-$35,000 | Timeline: 4-5 weeks | Best For: Narrow basement kitchens needing visual expansion
Victorian: Basement Kitchen Utilizing Every Corner With Lazy Susans

Victorian charm meets modern function like your grandmother’s china cabinet got a West Elm makeover. Those lazy Susans tucked into every corner give you the storage capacity of a walk-in closet while maintaining that ornate, collected-over-time aesthetic that makes guests think you inherited everything from a chic estate sale.
Shop The Look:
- Dark wood cabinets with brass hardware and crown molding details
- Round pedestal breakfast table in mahogany or walnut finish
- Tufted velvet dining chairs in jewel tones
- Ornate brass chandelier or vintage-inspired pendant fixtures
- Persian-style runner rug in burgundy and navy (2.5’x10′)
- Glass globe pendants with Edison bulbs
- Lace or damask patterned cafe curtains
- Apothecary glass storage jars with metal lids
- Vintage botanical prints in gold frames or decorative plate wall display
DIY Paint Transformation
- Cabinet elegance: Benjamin Moore “Hale Navy” (HC-154) on lower cabinets creates that moody Victorian drama while keeping the space grounded and sophisticated.
- Wall richness: Sherwin Williams “Caviar” (SW 6990) as an accent wall behind open shelving makes your dishware pop like a curated museum display.
- Ceiling surprise: Benjamin Moore “Cloud White” (OC-130) on ceiling and upper cabinets brightens the basement while maintaining period authenticity.
Budget Range: $18,000-$32,000 | Timeline: 4-6 weeks | Best For: Corner basement spaces with limited natural light
Southwestern: Small Desert-Inspired Kitchen Maximizing Space With Terra Cotta Shelves

Terra cotta and turquoise is having its moment—think Free People meets your favorite taco spot but make it kitchen. This desert palette brings that same warmth you love in chunky knit blankets and copper jewelry straight to your cooking space. Your morning smoothie routine suddenly feels like a Santa Fe vacation, minus the plane ticket.
Shop The Look:
- Whitewashed pine cabinets with wrought iron hardware
- Reclaimed wood dining table with metal base
- Leather and wood counter stools with nail head details
- Copper or aged bronze range hood
- Terracotta and cream striped runner (2.5’x7′)
- Clay pendant lights with rope details
- Natural bamboo blinds or white gauze curtains
- Ceramic storage jars in burnt orange and sage
- Woven baskets and copper pot display for open shelving
DIY Paint Transformation
- Accent wall magic: Benjamin Moore “Sedona Clay” (2174-30) on one wall creates that sunset glow everyone screenshots on Pinterest
- Cabinet refresh: Sherwin Williams “Alabaster” (SW 7008) keeps cabinets bright while letting terra cotta accessories pop
- Ceiling surprise: Benjamin Moore “White Sand” (OC-10) adds subtle warmth overhead without closing in the space
Budget Range: $10,000-$18,000 | Timeline: 2-3 weeks | Best For: Narrow basement kitchens with limited natural light
Minimalist: Every Inch Streamlined With Handleless Cabinets in Basement

That clean-lined aesthetic from Scandinavian coffee shops is having a major moment in basement kitchens. Think handleless cabinets creating seamless walls of storage—like those minimalist wardrobes you’ve been saving on Pinterest, but for your cooking space. This approach turns tight basement quarters into surprisingly zen cooking zones.
Shop The Look:
- Flat-panel handleless cabinets in matte white or light gray
- Sleek waterfall edge breakfast bar in quartz or compact laminate
- Transparent acrylic bar stools or slim metal designs
- Recessed LED strip lighting or ultra-thin track lights
- Thin profile kitchen runner in solid gray or cream
- Linear pendant lights in brushed nickel or chrome
- Roller shades in light-filtering white fabric
- Clear glass storage containers with bamboo lids
- Single floating shelf with minimal ceramics or one large abstract print
DIY Paint Transformation
- Cabinet finish: Apply “Chantilly Lace” (Benjamin Moore) in satin finish for that gallery-white look that bounces light around windowless basements
- Accent wall: Create depth with “Stonington Gray” (Benjamin Moore) on one wall to add subtle contrast without breaking the minimal vibe
- Ceiling brightener: Use “Cloud White” (Benjamin Moore) on the ceiling to maximize height perception and keep everything feeling open
Budget Range: $15,000-$28,000 | Timeline: 4-5 weeks | Best For: Narrow basement spaces under 100 square feet
Tuscan: Maximized Small Kitchen With Ceiling-Mounted Herb Garden Below Ground

This basement kitchen channels that rustic Italian restaurant where you had the best date night—warm terracotta, weathered wood, and herbs everywhere. Picture your favorite farmhouse filter but actually livable, with a ceiling-mounted herb garden that makes every pasta night feel like you’re cooking in Tuscany.
Shop The Look:
- Distressed cream kitchen cabinets with wrought iron hardware
- Rustic farmhouse dining table in reclaimed wood
- Woven rush seat dining chairs with curved backs
- Copper or aged bronze range hood with decorative strapping
- Terra cotta colored kitchen runner (2.5’x10′)
- Wrought iron pendant lights with amber glass shades
- Burlap Roman shades or cream linen cafe curtains
- Olive oil bottles and ceramic canisters in earthy glazes
- Vintage Italian posters or hanging copper pots on open shelving
DIY Paint Transformation
- Cabinet makeover: Benjamin Moore “Linen White” (OC-146) on cabinets creates that sun-bleached Italian villa look while brightening your below-ground space
- Accent wall: Sherwin Williams “Cavern Clay” (SW 7701) behind open shelving brings warmth without overwhelming the basement setting
- Ceiling treatment: Benjamin Moore “Cloud White” (OC-130) helps reflect light from your herb garden grow lights and makes low ceilings feel higher
Budget Range: $15,000-$28,000 | Timeline: 4-5 weeks | Best For: Narrow basement kitchens with limited natural light



