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.
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.
Apply “Pure White” (Sherwin Williams) on shiplap walls to maximize light reflection and create that bright, airy farmhouse backdrop.
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.
on all cabinetry creates that British countryside kitchen vibe while reflecting light in windowless basements.
on a center island adds that heritage green that’s trending everywhere from Target to Pottery Barn.
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.
to complement exposed brick and create depth in windowless spaces.
on lower cabinets for that sophisticated industrial vibe that hides fingerprints.
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.
on the ceiling creates height while letting those horizontal wood grains be the star
behind open shelving adds that earthy sophistication prairie homes are known for
on window frames echoes the geometric tile patterns without overwhelming
Quicklock RTA (Ready-to-Assemble) 30" Tall Wall Kitchen Cabinets - Shaker Style | 100% Hardwood | Made in America | Soft Close Hardware (Raw Maple, 12" D x 36" W x 30" H)
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Furniture of America Nazaen III 82.5" Mid-Century Modern Solid Wood Live Edge Dining Table with Steel Support, Walnut Finish, Seats 4–6
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Riverbay Furniture 31" Bar Stool, Faux Leather and Wood, Dark Cherry/Black Finish, Mission Style with Padded Seat, Bar Height, 17.25"W x 21.25"D x 42.5"H, Comfortable Seating for Home Bar or Kitchen
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Quoizel Maybeck 3-Light Valiant Bronze Pendant Light
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SAFAVIEH Natural Fiber Collection Runner Rug - 2' x 6', Marble, Sisal, Woven Design with Border (NF525C)
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DAYBETTER 4 Pack Vintage LED Edison Bulbs, E26 Led Bulb 60W Equivalent, Dimmable Led Light Bulbs, High Brightness 800 LM Amber Warm 2200K, ST58 Antique Filament Bulbs, Clear Glass Style for Home
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EVOZEN Bamboo Blinds for Interior Windows, Custom Bamboo Shades
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Nambe x Tom Papa Breaking Bread Canister - 10”H x 6”W, Ceramic Stoneware Storage Jar with Acacia Wood Lid & Silicone Seal for Fresh Food, Scandinavian Kitchen Decor for Countertop Storage (Medium)
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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.
on all cabinetry creates that bright, beachy vibe while reflecting limited basement light.
on one wall adds subtle coastal color without overwhelming the space.
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.
on all cabinetry creates that fresh-start feeling that makes Monday mornings less painful
behind open shelving adds depth without overwhelming the compact space
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.
on all cabinetry creates that seamless, gallery-like backdrop that makes built-ins disappear into walls
behind open shelving adds depth without overwhelming the compact space
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.
on all cabinetry creates that fresh farmhouse look while reflecting light into dark basement corners.
behind open shelving adds subtle coastal cottage vibes without overwhelming the compact space.
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
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.
on upper cabinets creates breathing room while letting natural wood lowers ground the space
behind open shelving adds depth without overwhelming tight quarters
painted on basement ceilings reflects light and visually raises low clearance areas
Quicklock RTA (Ready-to-Assemble) | Base Kitchen Cabinets - Shaker Style | Made in America (Raw Maple, 42" Wx34.5 Hx24 D Blind Corner)
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ZZW L Shaped Storage Bench, Modular Corner Dining Bench Seating, 63" Breakfast Nook Bench w/Hidden Storage, Safety Soft-Close Hinges, Dining Room, Kitchen, Living Room, Entryway Color Walnut
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Sunset Trading Oak Selections Dining Chair, 38", Light Finish
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Westinghouse Lighting 6105400 One-Light Indoor Mini Pendant, Hammered Copper Finish
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SAFAVIEH Classic Vintage Collection Runner Rug - 2'3" x 10', Rust & Navy, Oriental Distressed Cotton Design, Easy Care, Ideal for High Traffic Areas in Living Room, Bedroom (CLV305P)
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Capulina Tiffany Lamp Amber Brown Stained Glass Pendant Light 16 Inches
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CHICOLOGY Bamboo Roman Shade, Cordless Light Filtering Woven Wood Window Treatment for Living Room, Dining Room, Kitchen & Office, Natural Bamboo Blinds for Boho Coastal Decor, Squirrel, 34.5"W x 74"H
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1 Gallon Glass Mason Jar with Airtight Wooden Lid, Wide Mouth Large Food Storage Container with Measurement Markings For Kitchen Pantry, Pickling, Cookies, Flour & Sugar - 2 Pack
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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.
on walls creates that sun-washed plaster look without actual texturing techniques.
inside arched alcoves adds terracotta warmth that makes dishes and glassware pop.
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.
on upper cabinets creates that floating effect while bouncing light around your basement space.
behind open shelving adds that perfect retro pop without overwhelming the compact area.
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.
on upper cabinets creates breathing room against dark basement walls while keeping the rustic vibe authentic.
grounds the space and hides scuffs from daily use in high-traffic underground kitchens.
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.
on cabinets creates that perfectly imperfect chalky finish that looks inherited from grandma.
behind open shelving adds subtle vintage green that makes white dishes pop.
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.
on all cabinetry creates that timeless colonial backdrop while making your basement feel brighter and more spacious.
matched from this photo — the closest Benjamin Moore shade.
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.
Paint one wall in “Hague Blue” (Farrow & Ball) to create depth and make open shelving pop against the moody backdrop.
on lower cabinets while keeping uppers in crisp white for that collected-over-time look.
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.
Paint one wall in “Canyon Clay” (Benjamin Moore) to create that earthy backdrop that makes your macrame pieces pop against the warmth.
Wicker Wall Cabinet, White
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Christopher Knight Home Tokin Extendable Dining Room Table for 6, Wooden Round Expandable Kitchen Table, Vintage Oval Dining Table for Dining Room Kitchen, Light Natural
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DUHOME Counter Height Bar Stools Set of 4, Natural Hand Woven Seagrass Back Wood Rattan Bar Chairs, Upholstered Beige Linen Cushion & Footrest, Coastal Farmhouse Stools for Kitchen Island Home Bar
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Design Classics Serra Satin Brass Pendant Light with Bowl/Dome Shade
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SAFAVIEH Tulum Collection Runner Rug - 2' x 7', Ivory & Terracotta, Moroccan Boho Distressed Design, Non-Shedding & Easy to Clean, Ideal for Living Room, Hallway, Foyer, Entryway, Bedroom (TUL264C)
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3-Light Mini Bohemian Wood Beaded Chandelier Pendant Boho Light Fixture,Antique Metal Finish Natural Color Wooden Beads, for Bathroom,Living Room,Entryway and Bedroom…
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GCOVELIS Macrame Valances for Windows, Boho Kitchen Macrame Curtains
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Best Choice Products Set of 4 9x12in Water Hyacinth Pantry Baskets, Woven Organizers w/Chalkboard Label, Chalk Marker - Natural
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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.
on all cabinetry creates that authentic English cottage brightness that bounces light around windowless basements.
on the dresser back panel adds subtle contrast while keeping the vintage charm intact.
wraps the space in warmth without competing with your displayed dishware collection.
HOMOTEK 12 Pack 3 Inch Hole Centers Brass Bronze Drawer Bin Cup Pulls Dresser Pulls for Cabinets,Furniture Handles,Kitchen Cabinet Hardware
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East West Furniture AST-LWH-TP Antique Modern Kitchen Table - a Round Dining Table Top with Pedestal Base, 36x36 Inch, Multi-Color
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SIMOE Windsor Dining Chairs Set of 2, Farmhouse Kitchen Chairs with Solid Wood Legs, Spindle Back, Wooden Armless Dining Room Chairs for Kitchen, Dining Room, Oak
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Kingston Brass KS1273ALBS Heritage 8-Inch Kitchen Bridge Faucet with Brass Sprayer, Antique Brass
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Chardin home 2x5 Jute Cotton Hand Woven Runner Rug, Natural Jute/Cream
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SAMTEEN Modern Gold Schoolhouse Pendant Light Fixture
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Bapawfish Teal Buffalo Plaid Cafe Curtains 36 Inches Long
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TTU Tabletops Gallery Ceramic Canister Collection- Stoneware Designed Kitchen Storage Acacia Wood White Set, 3 Piece Green Leaf Canister Set
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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.
on lower cabinets creates that moody sophistication while the mirror backsplash keeps things bright
on the ceiling adds unexpected depth that makes low basement ceilings feel intentional
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.
on lower cabinets creates that moody Victorian drama while keeping the space grounded and sophisticated.
as an accent wall behind open shelving makes your dishware pop like a curated museum display.
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.
on one wall creates that sunset glow everyone screenshots on Pinterest
keeps cabinets bright while letting terra cotta accessories pop
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.
Apply “Chantilly Lace” (Benjamin Moore) in satin finish for that gallery-white look that bounces light around windowless basements
Pemberly Row 29" Acrylic Metal Bar Stools, Clear Finish, Contemporary Design, Set of 2, 39.75" H x 18" W x 16" D, Lucite Construction for Modern Bar Height Tables or High Counter Seating
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10 Pack Plaster-in LED Channel 6.6FT/2M Recessed Drywall Aluminum Strip Lighting Track with White Diffuser for Light Tape Mounting Profile
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Zoaklighen Island Light for Kitchen, 5-Light Brushed Nickel Kitchen Island Linear Hanging Pendant Chandeliers, Brushed Nickel Dining Room Light Fixture Over Table with Clear Round Glass Shades
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Persilux No Drill Light Filtering Roller Shades,White,Custom Size
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Vtopmart 4 Pack Glass Food Storage Containers with Bamboo Lids Meal Prep
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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.
on cabinets creates that sun-bleached Italian villa look while brightening your below-ground space
behind open shelving brings warmth without overwhelming the basement setting
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
