23 Trendy Small Kitchen Designs | smart & stylish

Tight on kitchen space but big on dreams? You’re not alone—and you don’t have to compromise on style or function.
Whether you’re drawn to sleek L-shaped layouts or clever island configurations, modular designs can work magic in smaller footprints.
These inspiring ideas prove that a compact kitchen can still be the heart of your home.
Table of Contents
L-Shaped Modular Design: Small Kitchen Elegance in Dove Gray and Warm Cream With Marble Countertops

That awkward corner in your small kitchen isn’t wasted space—it’s an opportunity for sophisticated style. This L-shaped modular design pairs soft dove gray cabinetry with warm cream walls, while cool marble countertops add refined texture against the matte painted surfaces. The interplay of veined stone, smooth lacquer finishes, and brushed hardware creates depth without overwhelming your compact footprint.
Shop The Look:
- Dove gray shaker modular base cabinet
- Warm cream upper wall cabinet unit
- Carrara marble peel and stick countertop
- Brushed nickel bar cabinet pulls
- Cream ceramic canister set trio
- Gray linen roman window shade
- LED under cabinet light bar
- Marble and wood cutting board
DIY Paint Transformation
- Lower Cabinets: Paint in “Stonington Gray” (Benjamin Moore HC-170) for a sophisticated dove gray that reads elegantly neutral against marble surfaces.
- Upper Cabinets & Walls: Paint in “White Down” (Benjamin Moore OC-131) delivering warm cream undertones that prevent the space from feeling cold or clinical.
- Interior Cabinet Backs: Paint in “Gray Owl” (Benjamin Moore OC-52) adding subtle dove gray dimension visible when doors open, creating unexpected visual interest.
Best For: Homeowners with corner-heavy galley kitchens seeking a timeless, elegant aesthetic that maximizes L-shaped workflow efficiency.
U-Shaped Modular Design: Small Kitchen Efficiency in Navy Blue and Antique Gold With Butcher Block

When counter space feels like a luxury, wrapping your kitchen in a U-shape transforms every inch into functional territory. Navy blue cabinetry creates a sophisticated backdrop while antique gold hardware catches light against the warm grain of butcher block countertops. The interplay of smooth lacquered surfaces, aged metallic finishes, and natural wood texture brings depth to even the smallest footprint.
Shop The Look:
- Navy blue shaker modular cabinet set
- Butcher block countertop 25-inch depth
- Antique gold cup pull cabinet handles
- White ceramic farmhouse undermount sink
- Gold gooseneck kitchen faucet brushed finish
- Natural linen Roman shade valance
- LED under cabinet light bar warm
- Marble and wood cutting board set
DIY Paint Transformation
- Lower cabinets: Paint in “Naval” (Sherwin-Williams SW 6244) for a commanding navy blue that anchors the U-shaped layout with timeless sophistication.
- Open shelving or accent details: Paint in “Goldfinch” (Benjamin Moore 2019-10) to echo the antique gold hardware with warm metallic undertones throughout the space.
- Interior cabinet backs: Paint in “Stunning” (Sherwin-Williams SW 6650) bringing navy blue depth to displayed dishware areas for an unexpected designer detail.
Best For: Efficiency-focused cooks who want maximum prep space and storage in a compact kitchen without sacrificing elegant style.
Parallel Modular Design: Small Kitchen Functionality in Sage Green and Soft Ivory With Ceramic Backsplash

The parallel layout transforms narrow kitchens into efficient cooking spaces where everything stays within arm’s reach. Sage green lower cabinets ground the room with earthy calm while soft ivory uppers keep sightlines open and bright. A ceramic backsplash adds subtle texture between the two tones, its glazed surface catching light against matte cabinet finishes and brushed metal hardware.
Shop The Look:
- Sage green shaker modular base cabinet
- Soft ivory wall-mounted upper cabinet unit
- Handmade ceramic subway tile backsplash
- Brushed nickel cabinet bar pulls
- Butcher block countertop for galley kitchen
- LED under cabinet light bar kit
- Woven cotton kitchen runner rug
- Matte black wall-mounted pot rack
DIY Paint Transformation
- Lower Cabinets: Paint in “Sage” (Benjamin Moore HC-114) for a grounded, organic foundation that pairs beautifully with natural wood countertops.
- Upper Cabinets: Paint in “Ivory White” (Benjamin Moore OC-41) to maximize light reflection and create visual breathing room in the parallel layout.
- Ceiling: Paint in “Sage” (Benjamin Moore HC-114) as an unexpected fifth wall treatment that visually lowers high ceilings and creates cozy intimacy.
Best For: Apartment dwellers and homeowners with galley-style kitchens who need maximum storage efficiency without sacrificing style or visual spaciousness.
Single-Wall Modular Design: Small Kitchen Simplicity in Charcoal Gray and Dusty Rose With Oak Beams

When square footage is tight, a single-wall layout delivers everything you need without overwhelming your space. This design pairs sophisticated charcoal gray cabinetry with soft dusty rose accents, creating warmth that feels both modern and inviting. The natural grain of oak beams overhead adds rustic texture against smooth painted surfaces and brushed metal hardware. It’s proof that small kitchens can absolutely have big style.
Shop The Look:
- Charcoal gray modular base cabinet unit
- Oak floating beam ceiling mount
- Dusty rose ceramic utensil crock
- Brushed nickel under cabinet LED lighting
- White quartz countertop with gray veining
- Woven cotton dusty rose dish towels
- Matte black iron wall-mounted pot rack
- Natural oak wood cutting board set
DIY Paint Transformation
- Lower Cabinets: Paint in “Kendall Charcoal” (Benjamin Moore HC-166) for a sophisticated anchor that grounds the single-wall design with rich depth.
- Upper Cabinet Interiors: Paint in “Rose Bisque” (Sherwin-Williams SW 0034) to reveal soft dusty rose tones when doors open, adding unexpected warmth.
- Ceiling Around Beams: Paint in “Charcoal Dust” (Behr N520-5) to create dramatic contrast that makes oak beams visually pop against the darker backdrop.
Best For: Studio apartment dwellers or minimalists who want maximum function and style from a compact linear kitchen footprint.
Island Modular Design: Small Kitchen Versatility in Midnight Blue and Warm Copper With Terracotta Floors

A compact kitchen island becomes the heart of your cooking space when midnight blue cabinetry meets warm copper hardware against rustic terracotta floors. The interplay between cool matte cabinet surfaces, gleaming metallic accents, and the earthy warmth of clay tiles creates a Mediterranean-inspired retreat. This combination brings sophisticated depth while maintaining the welcoming atmosphere every busy kitchen needs.
Shop The Look:
- Midnight blue rolling kitchen island cart
- Terracotta hexagon floor tiles matte finish
- Copper cabinet cup pulls brushed finish
- White marble island countertop piece
- Copper pendant flush mount ceiling light
- Woven rattan counter stools natural wood
- Navy blue cotton kitchen runner rug
- Copper utensil holder hammered metal
DIY Paint Transformation
- Island Base: Paint in “Hale Navy” (Benjamin Moore HC-154) creates the signature midnight blue foundation that anchors your kitchen’s color story with timeless depth.
- Open Shelving Brackets: Paint in “Copper Penny” (Sherwin-Williams SW 6095) brings warm metallic undertones to functional hardware without overwhelming the space.
- Interior Cabinet Backs: Paint in “In The Navy” (Benjamin Moore 2063-10) adds a deeper midnight blue surprise when doors open, creating visual intrigue and dimensional layering.
Best For: Urban apartment dwellers or young families who need flexible prep space with bold, globally-inspired style that hides everyday wear beautifully.
Corner Modular Design: Small Kitchen Optimization in Forest Green and Creamy Beige With Zellige Tile

That awkward corner eating up precious square footage? A corner modular design transforms this dead zone into your kitchen’s hardest-working asset. Forest green cabinetry grounds the space with earthy sophistication while creamy beige countertops and walls keep everything feeling open. Handcrafted zellige tile introduces subtle texture variations that catch light beautifully against the smooth cabinet finishes.
Shop The Look:
- Forest green corner cabinet lazy Susan
- Creamy beige zellige tile backsplash sheets
- L-shaped modular corner cabinet system
- Brushed brass cabinet cup pulls
- Beige quartz countertop sample kit
- Natural oak floating corner shelf
- LED under cabinet light bar set
- Cream linen Roman shade valance
DIY Paint Transformation
- Lower Cabinets: Paint in “Hunter Green” (Benjamin Moore HC-188) for rich forest green depth on corner units and base cabinetry.
- Upper Cabinets & Walls: Paint in “Muslin” (Benjamin Moore OC-12) delivering warm creamy beige that maximizes light reflection in tight corners.
- Interior Cabinet Backs: Paint in “Cushing Green” (Benjamin Moore HC-125) as a muted forest green surprise visible when doors open.
Best For: Homeowners with L-shaped or galley kitchens seeking to maximize every inch of underutilized corner space while maintaining a warm, organic aesthetic.
Galley Modular Design: Small Kitchen Streamlining in Slate Gray and Blush Pink With Copper Sink

The narrow footprint of a galley kitchen becomes surprisingly sophisticated when slate gray cabinetry meets soft blush pink accents. Your copper sink catches morning light while cool matte cabinet surfaces contrast with warm metallic gleams. Textured linen curtains soften the parallel layout, and brushed copper hardware bridges the moody gray and feminine pink tones beautifully.
Shop The Look:
- Copper farmhouse single bowl kitchen sink
- Slate gray modular base cabinet unit
- Blush pink ceramic canister storage set
- Brushed copper cabinet cup pulls
- White quartz countertop prefab slab
- Linen blend cafe curtains in cream
- LED under cabinet puck light kit
- Natural oak floating shelf bracket set
DIY Paint Transformation
- Lower Cabinets: Paint in “Peppercorn” (Sherwin-Williams SW 7674) for dramatic slate gray depth that anchors the galley layout.
- Upper Cabinets: Paint in “Melting Moment” (Sherwin-Williams SW 6024) bringing warm blush pink that opens up the narrow space visually.
- Ceiling: Paint in “Intimate White” (Sherwin-Williams SW 6322) as a subtle blush-kissed neutral that reflects light and extends the pink story overhead.
Best For: Apartment dwellers or condo owners wanting to maximize a narrow corridor kitchen with bold personality and functional flow.
Peninsula Modular Design: Small Kitchen Flow in Olive Green and Champagne Gold With Wood Shelving

A peninsula layout transforms cramped kitchens into functional gathering spaces where cooking and conversation flow naturally. The earthy richness of olive green cabinetry pairs beautifully with champagne gold hardware, while natural wood shelving introduces warm grain texture against smooth painted surfaces. This combination creates a grounded yet elegant atmosphere perfect for everyday family meals.
Shop The Look:
- Olive green shaker peninsula base cabinet
- Floating natural wood kitchen shelves
- Champagne gold cabinet cup pulls
- White quartz peninsula countertop slab
- Woven seagrass counter stool set
- Brass flush mount ceiling light fixture
- Linen Roman shade for kitchen window
- Ceramic olive oil dispenser set
DIY Paint Transformation
- Peninsula Base & Lower Cabinets: Paint in “Basil Leaf” (Benjamin Moore 2144-10) creates an organic, sophisticated anchor that grounds the kitchen while adding unexpected color depth.
- Open Shelving Brackets & Trim: Paint in “Gold Bouillon” (Sherwin-Williams SW 6399) adds warm metallic warmth that coordinates with champagne gold hardware throughout.
- Interior Cabinet Backing: Paint in “Rosemary Sprig” (Benjamin Moore 2144-30) provides a lighter olive variation that creates visual interest when cabinet doors open.
Best For: Small households seeking a sociable kitchen layout that maximizes counter space while creating natural separation between cooking and living areas.
Open-Shelf Modular Design: Small Kitchen Airiness in Soft Teal and Warm White With Linen Curtains

Replacing upper cabinets with open shelving instantly makes your small kitchen feel twice its size, letting light flow freely across every surface. The soft teal and warm white palette creates a coastal-inspired calm, while natural linen curtains add gentle movement and texture against smooth painted wood shelves. Woven basket storage and matte ceramic dishware complete this breathable, organized approach to compact cooking spaces.
Shop The Look:
- Natural linen cafe curtains with rod pocket
- Floating wood display shelves wall mount
- Woven seagrass storage baskets rectangular
- Matte white ceramic dinnerware stacking set
- Brushed nickel under cabinet puck lights
- Marble and wood cutting board set
- Brass curtain rod adjustable tension mount
- Cotton linen dish towels teal striped
DIY Paint Transformation
- Open Shelving: Paint in “Quietude” (Sherwin-Williams SW 6212) soft teal on shelf brackets and backing boards creates serene focal points that highlight displayed items beautifully.
- Cabinet Bases and Frames: Paint in “Creamy” (Sherwin-Williams SW 7012) warm white across lower cabinets provides a clean, welcoming foundation that reflects natural light throughout.
- Interior Cabinet Backs: Paint in “Watery” (Sherwin-Williams SW 6478) lighter teal variation inside open cubbies adds unexpected depth when dishes are removed.
Best For: Renters or homeowners seeking an affordable, reversible update that maximizes visual space without permanent structural changes to their galley kitchen.
Handleless Modular Design: Small Kitchen Minimalism in Matte Black and Silver Gray With Stone Flooring

That sleek, European kitchen aesthetic you’ve been pinning is absolutely achievable in your compact space. The striking contrast of matte black cabinetry against silver gray countertops creates instant sophistication, while natural stone flooring grounds the modern palette with organic texture. Push-to-open mechanisms eliminate visual clutter, letting clean lines and material interplay become the focal point.
Shop The Look:
- Matte black handleless base cabinet module
- Silver gray quartz countertop slab
- Push-to-open cabinet hardware kit
- Natural limestone floor tiles square
- Brushed stainless steel undermount sink
- Black linen Roman shade valance
- LED under cabinet light bar
- Gray wool runner rug kitchen
DIY Paint Transformation
- Lower Cabinets: Paint in “Onyx” (Benjamin Moore 2133-10) for that coveted matte black finish that anchors the entire kitchen design.
- Upper Cabinets: Paint in “Silver Gray” (Benjamin Moore 2131-60) creating airy contrast that prevents the dark base from overwhelming your small space.
- Interior Cabinet Backs: Paint in “Wrought Iron” (Benjamin Moore 2124-10) adding dramatic depth visible through open shelving or glass-front modules.
Best For: Design-forward minimalists who want a high-end European aesthetic without the renovation price tag in galley or apartment kitchens.
Compact Modular Design: Small Kitchen Innovation in Burnt Orange and Cream White With Shiplap Walls

That galley kitchen feeling cramped and dated? Burnt orange and cream white create an unexpected pairing that brings warmth without overwhelming tight quarters. The horizontal texture of shiplap walls adds visual width, while smooth painted cabinetry and rustic wood accents create layers that make every square foot feel intentional and designed.
Shop The Look:
- Burnt orange ceramic canister set
- Cream white shaker modular cabinet unit
- Shiplap peel and stick wall panels
- Brushed copper under cabinet lighting
- Cream cotton roman shade valance
- Natural oak floating corner shelf
- Burnt orange linen dish towels set
- White marble rolling pin
DIY Paint Transformation
- Lower Cabinets: Paint in “Regal Orange” (Benjamin Moore 2169-20) for a bold anchor that grounds the space with earthy warmth below eye level.
- Upper Cabinets & Ceiling: Paint in “Cream White” (Benjamin Moore OC-136) to maximize light reflection and create the illusion of height in compact layouts.
- Interior Cabinet Backs: Paint in “Soft Pumpkin” (Benjamin Moore 2166-40) as a surprising burnt orange variation revealed when doors open.
Best For: Apartment dwellers and small home owners who want bold personality without sacrificing the airy feel essential in compact cooking spaces.
Vertical Modular Design: Small Kitchen Storage in Deep Plum and Soft Gold With Brass Lighting

When square footage is limited, building upward becomes your secret weapon for maximizing every inch. Deep plum cabinetry creates a moody, sophisticated backdrop while soft gold accents add warmth and luminosity that prevents the space from feeling cramped. The interplay of matte lacquered surfaces against brushed brass hardware and natural oak open shelving delivers texture that draws the eye upward, making ceilings appear taller.
Shop The Look:
- Vertical pull-out pantry cabinet system
- Stackable modular wall cabinet units
- Brass under cabinet LED light bar
- Soft gold ceramic drawer pulls
- Natural oak floating corner shelves
- Marble-look quartz countertop sample
- Plum velvet bar stool cushion covers
- Woven rattan storage basket set
DIY Paint Transformation
- Upper Cabinets: Paint in “Plum Brown” (Benjamin Moore 2074-20) for rich depth that anchors vertical storage towers dramatically.
- Lower Cabinets or Island Base: Paint in “Goldfinch” (Sherwin-Williams SW 6905) creating warm contrast that reflects light beautifully at counter height.
- Interior Cabinet Backing: Paint in “Dark Purple” (Benjamin Moore 2073-10) on open shelving backs for unexpected depth that showcases dishware.
Best For: Apartment dwellers and homeowners with narrow galley kitchens who need to maximize vertical wall space while maintaining a luxurious, design-forward aesthetic.
Floating Modular Design: Small Kitchen Modernity in Arctic White and Pale Blue With Rattan Seating

That cramped galley kitchen transforms into an airy retreat when wall-mounted cabinets appear to float effortlessly against crisp arctic white walls. The pale blue lower modules create visual depth while natural rattan seating introduces organic warmth that softens the modern aesthetic. This combination of smooth lacquered surfaces, woven natural fibers, and cool-toned finishes delivers Scandinavian-inspired freshness perfect for bright, contemporary cooking spaces.
Shop The Look:
- Wall-mounted white modular cabinet system
- Pale blue laminate base cabinet unit
- Natural rattan counter height stool
- Brushed nickel cabinet bar pulls
- White quartz countertop sample tile
- LED under cabinet light strip
- Woven rattan storage basket set
- Ceramic pale blue utensil holder
DIY Paint Transformation
- Upper Cabinets: Paint in “Chantilly Lace” (Benjamin Moore OC-65) for that crisp arctic white that maximizes light reflection and creates the floating effect against matching walls.
- Lower Cabinets: Paint in “Breath of Fresh Air” (Benjamin Moore 806) delivering the perfect pale blue that grounds the space while maintaining the airy Scandinavian mood.
- Interior Cabinet Backs: Paint in “Iceberg” (Benjamin Moore 2122-50) as a subtle pale blue surprise visible when doors open, adding unexpected depth to display shelving.
Best For: Minimalist homeowners seeking a serene, clutter-free kitchen that feels spacious despite limited square footage.
Stackable Modular Design: Small Kitchen Intelligence in Dusty Blue and Warm Taupe With Butcher Block

When counter space disappears faster than your morning coffee, stackable modular systems become your kitchen’s secret weapon. The soft sophistication of dusty blue cabinetry pairs beautifully with warm taupe walls, while the honey-toned grain of butcher block countertops adds organic warmth. These layered textures create depth without overwhelming your compact cooking space.
Shop The Look:
- Stackable bamboo shelf risers set
- Dusty blue ceramic canister trio
- Butcher block cutting board with storage
- Warm taupe linen cabinet curtain panels
- Brushed nickel under cabinet LED lights
- Modular metal wall grid organizer system
- Natural marble spoon rest
- Cotton kitchen towels in blue stripe
DIY Paint Transformation
- Lower Cabinets: Paint in “Nimbus Gray” (Benjamin Moore 2131-50) for a sophisticated dusty blue that reads serene and grounded against natural wood tones.
- Walls: Paint in “Smokey Taupe” (Sherwin-Williams SW 6039) creating warm neutral depth that makes the space feel cozy yet open.
- Inside Open Shelving: Paint in “Mountain Air” (Benjamin Moore 1664) offering a lighter dusty blue variation that highlights displayed items beautifully.
Best For: Apartment renters and condo owners who need vertical storage solutions that maximize every inch without permanent modifications.
Foldable Modular Design: Small Kitchen Flexibility in Moss Green and Pearl White With Ceramic Backsplash

Maximizing every square inch becomes effortless when foldable elements transform your cooking space on demand. The earthy depth of moss green cabinetry against pearl white walls creates a grounding yet airy atmosphere, while glossy ceramic tile adds light-reflecting texture that makes tight quarters feel more expansive. This flexible approach lets you adapt your kitchen layout as needs change throughout the day.
Shop The Look:
- Moss green fold-down wall-mounted dining table
- Pearl white modular cabinet storage system
- Handmade ceramic subway tile backsplash panels
- Brushed nickel under cabinet LED light bar
- Natural oak floating shelf with metal brackets
- Cotton linen blend moss green cafe curtains
- White ceramic canister set with bamboo lids
- Stainless steel wall-mounted magnetic knife strip
DIY Paint Transformation
- Lower Cabinets: Paint in “Ryegrass” (Sherwin-Williams SW 6423) for an organic moss green that anchors the space with natural sophistication.
- Upper Cabinets and Walls: Paint in “Pearl White” (Benjamin Moore OC-26) delivering soft luminosity that maximizes light in compact kitchens.
- Interior Cabinet Backs: Paint in “Rosemary” (Sherwin-Williams SW 6187) adding a deeper moss green surprise visible when doors open.
Best For: Apartment dwellers or tiny home owners who need multi-functional kitchen elements that fold away to create extra floor space for entertaining or daily activities.
Multi-Level Modular Design: Small Kitchen Dimension in Espresso Brown and Soft Cream With Oak Beams

When your kitchen spans multiple levels or features varying ceiling heights, embracing that architectural quirk creates unexpected charm. Deep espresso brown cabinetry grounds the space while soft cream walls amplify natural light, and those gorgeous oak beams add rustic warmth overhead. The interplay of smooth lacquered surfaces against rough-hewn timber and creamy matte walls delivers cozy sophistication.
Shop The Look:
- Espresso brown modular base cabinet unit
- Soft cream upper wall cabinet module
- Natural oak floating beam shelf
- Brushed nickel under cabinet puck lights
- Cream linen Roman shade valance
- Espresso wood and iron bar stool
- Travertine stone mosaic tile backsplash
- Cream ceramic canister set with oak lids
DIY Paint Transformation
- Lower Cabinets: Paint in “Espresso Beans” (Benjamin Moore 2099-10) for rich coffee-toned depth that anchors multi-level layouts.
- Upper Walls & Ceiling: Paint in “Soft Chamois” (Benjamin Moore OC-13) creating airy cream contrast that heightens vertical dimension.
- Interior Cabinet Backs: Paint in “Gentle Cream” (Sherwin-Williams SW 7044) for a subtle surprise when doors open.
Best For: Homeowners with split-level kitchens, raised breakfast bars, or step-down cooking areas who want cohesive flow between varying heights.
Wraparound Modular Design: Small Kitchen Maximization in Emerald Green and Warm Gray With Zellige Tile

When square footage is limited, a wraparound configuration transforms every corner into functional workspace. The rich depth of emerald green cabinetry creates a jewel-box effect against warm gray walls, while handcrafted zellige tile adds artisanal texture that catches light beautifully. This combination brings sophistication to compact kitchens without overwhelming the space.
Shop The Look:
- Emerald green shaker modular cabinet set
- Warm gray quartz countertop slab
- White zellige tile backsplash squares
- Brushed brass cabinet cup pulls
- Natural oak floating corner shelf
- LED under cabinet light bar
- Gray linen Roman shade valance
- Marble and brass utensil crock
DIY Paint Transformation
- Lower Cabinets: Paint in “Emerald Isle” (Benjamin Moore 2039-20) for dramatic depth that anchors the wraparound configuration with sophisticated color.
- Upper Walls: Paint in “Wish” (Sherwin-Williams SW 7613) as a warm gray backdrop that softens the bold cabinetry while expanding perceived space.
- Interior Cabinet Backs: Paint in “Hunter Green” (Benjamin Moore 2041-10) to create unexpected depth when doors open, adding layered interest to display sections.
Best For: Apartment dwellers or homeowners with galley-style kitchens seeking maximum storage and high-impact style in under 100 square feet.
Tiered Modular Design: Small Kitchen Organization in Burgundy Red and Soft Caramel With Copper Sink

When counter space feels impossible to find, tiered modular shelving transforms forgotten vertical areas into stylish storage solutions. The rich warmth of burgundy red cabinetry pairs beautifully with soft caramel wood accents, while a hammered copper sink adds artisan character. Brushed metal brackets, natural grain textures, and woven basket inserts create organized layers that work as hard as you do.
Shop The Look:
- Hammered copper farmhouse kitchen sink
- Burgundy red modular cabinet doors
- Tiered corner shelf organizer wood
- Soft caramel woven storage baskets
- Copper cabinet cup pulls set
- Under cabinet LED light bar
- Natural marble cutting board
- Cotton linen café curtain panel
DIY Paint Transformation
- Lower Cabinets: Paint in “Carriage Red” (Benjamin Moore HC-188) for a sophisticated burgundy that grounds the kitchen with dramatic warmth without overwhelming small square footage.
- Upper Cabinets and Open Shelving: Paint in “Soft Caramel” (Sherwin-Williams SW 6344) bringing honeyed undertones that expand visual space and highlight your tiered organizational system.
- Interior Cabinet Backs: Paint in “Dinner Party” (Benjamin Moore AF-300) adding a deeper burgundy accent visible through glass doors or open modular sections for unexpected depth.
Best For: Organized home cooks who need maximum vertical storage in galley or apartment kitchens without sacrificing design-forward style.
Sliding Modular Design: Small Kitchen Adaptability in Cobalt Blue and Linen White With Wood Shelving

When counter space disappears faster than your morning coffee, sliding modular components become your kitchen’s secret weapon. The striking contrast of cobalt blue cabinetry against linen white walls creates visual depth, while natural wood shelving introduces warmth through its grainy texture. This adaptable design lets you reconfigure storage as your needs evolve.
Shop The Look:
- Cobalt blue sliding cabinet door panels
- Linen white modular drawer units
- Natural oak floating wood shelves
- Brushed nickel sliding track hardware
- White marble peel-and-stick backsplash tiles
- Cotton linen Roman shade valance
- Woven seagrass storage baskets
- LED under cabinet light bar strip
DIY Paint Transformation
- Lower Cabinets: Paint in “Commodore” (Benjamin Moore 2065-30) delivers bold cobalt blue that anchors the room with sophisticated depth.
- Upper Walls and Ceiling: Paint in “White Linen” (Benjamin Moore OC-146) provides creamy warmth that reflects light beautifully throughout compact spaces.
- Interior Cabinet Backs: Paint in “Blue Danube” (Benjamin Moore 2062-30) adds unexpected cobalt variation visible through open wood shelving for layered interest.
Best For: Renters and homeowners who need flexible kitchen storage that can adapt to changing organizational needs without permanent renovations.
Nesting Modular Design: Small Kitchen Ingenuity in Warm Mustard and Cool Gray With Stone Flooring

That cramped kitchen corner deserves smarter solutions than just cramming in more cabinets. Nesting modular design brings warm mustard accents against cool gray cabinetry, creating depth without overwhelming tight square footage. The natural stone flooring anchors the space with rugged texture while brushed metal hardware adds industrial polish. Woven textile accents soften the overall composition beautifully.
Shop The Look:
- Gray modular stacking kitchen cabinet system
- Mustard yellow ceramic canister nesting set
- Natural stone tile flooring squares
- Brushed nickel cabinet cup pulls
- Woven cotton mustard kitchen towels
- Gray wood floating shelf unit
- LED under cabinet lighting strip
- Stone and metal nested prep bowls
DIY Paint Transformation
- Lower Cabinets: Paint in “Serious Gray” (Sherwin-Williams SW 6256) for a sophisticated cool gray foundation that maximizes visual depth in compact layouts.
- Upper Cabinet Interiors: Paint in “Curry” (Sherwin-Williams SW 6671) adding warm mustard pops visible through glass doors or open shelving sections.
- Ceiling: Paint in “Restrained Gold” (Sherwin-Williams SW 6129) as a muted mustard variation that reflects warm light and draws eyes upward, expanding perceived height.
Best For: Apartment renters and condo owners seeking maximum functionality from minimal square footage without permanent renovations.



