
If you have a small kitchen, it can be difficult to find space to make your favourite dishes. But with good design, it is possible to maximise your cabinet and counter space and make room for all the kitchenware you need.
Install high cabinetry to make full use of space, and keep the room bright with the right colour palette. You will find that even the smallest kitchens can become a lovely space to cook in, as well as for entertaining family and friends.
Here are some design ideas found in Malaysian homes that make small kitchens look bigger and feel more spacious.
Taman Puncak Jalil, Seri Kembangan

In this concept kitchen, a modern design emphasises no-handle cabinet doors and clean lines. This space may be small, but it stays functional with plenty of storage shelves, drawers and cabinets.
Two-bedroom apartment in Semenyih

A minimalist design with a very classy feel, this kitchen appears spacious despite containing a cooker hood, built-in oven and fridge. The cabinets have a good amount of countertop space.
Rica Residence, Sentul

Even though this unit is around 1,000 sq ft, very little space has been allocated for the kitchen area. This single-wall kitchen manages to fit a small sink, cooker hob and hood, while adding a floating effect under the base cabinet with LED lights.
Setia Eco Park, Shah Alam

If you have a small home, opt for a brighter palette to make the space appear bigger. The tall cabinet does double duty as a divider between the kitchen and doorway, as well as a utility closet.
Modern condo in Taman OUG

This grey cabinet with white countertop creates a modern yet classic feel. Pendant lights help to brighten the space. This design allows for ample storage, while the kitchen island is efficient and functional.
Refurbished condo in Pandan Cheras


This narrow kitchen has been refurbished to add a long dining counter facing the living room. Along the other wall, a long shelf provides more seating spots. The glass cabinet doors have a reflective appearance that creates the illusion of space.
Airbnb unit in Vista Alam, Shah Alam

The unique layout of this condo, where the bedroom doors occupy most of the space behind the kitchen, means the kitchen itself is restricted to one side. The designer has cleverly included an L-shaped counter while a glass divider doubles as a partition and backsplash.
Six Ceylon, Jalan Ceylon, Kuala Lumpur

Clean white cabinets along the wall of this studio provide a minimal and sleek look. An island counter features a drop-in cooker hob and suspended hood that extends from the ceiling.
Tropicana Avenue, Petaling Jaya

This design demonstrates that grey can be cool and modern instead of dull. The cabinets blend well with the pendant lights hanging from the ceiling.
The Wharf, Puchong

“Modern, sleek and classy” best describes this open-concept, one-wall kitchen. The all-white theme and no-handle cabinet doors are repeated with the closets along the adjacent wall, creating a unified style that keeps the space uniform and bright.
Minimalist studio in CyberSquare

Another modern and minimal design featuring grey cabinets with a white countertop. The base cabinet includes glass doors with internal lighting, creating a unique display case.
RT2, Rawang

This modern L-shaped kitchen combines wood elements to create a warm and inviting feel. The backsplash, designed with grey tiles, creates a pleasant contrast.
Nadi Bangsar, Kuala Lumpur

This studio kitchen uses light wood tones and a slim-profile counter to maximise space. The cooker hood is hidden behind a cabinet front to reinforce the uniformity of the design.
Another studio kitchen in Nadi Bangsar

This black-and-white combination kitchen has an edgy and spacious design. A wooden backsplash adds contrast and texture.
Cozy kitchen in Puchong

If you love a classic English kitchen, this design is for you. The white countertop, panelled doors and terracotta tiles give off a very homey feel.
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