Plan a practical small kitchen with suitable cabinet widths, wall storage, corner access, appliances and a free 2D and 3D planner.
A small kitchen can work well when every cabinet has a purpose and doors, drawers and appliances have enough room to open. The aim is not to fit the greatest possible number of cupboards; it is to create a safe, usable layout with sensible storage.
A coordinated modular kitchen can combine base, wall and appliance units in a compact run.
Start with the room, not the cabinet list
Measure every wall and record doors, windows, radiators, boilers, sockets, pipework and ceiling height. Note which objects cannot move. Our kitchen measuring guide includes a step-by-step checklist.
Choose a layout for the available space
Single-wall kitchen
A single run can suit a narrow room or studio. Position the sink and cooking area first, then use the remaining width for drawers and storage. Wall cabinets add capacity without using more floor space.
L-shaped kitchen
An L-shape uses two adjoining walls and can provide more worktop. Check the corner cabinet's full footprint and door access before filling both runs.
Galley kitchen
Two parallel runs can create efficient storage, but the walkway must remain wide enough for doors, drawers and appliances to open safely. Avoid placing opposing handles or doors where they collide.
Planning challenge
Useful option
Check carefully
Limited floor width
300mm or 400mm cabinets in selected ranges
Storage capacity and door clearance
Unused wall space
Wall cabinets
Safe fixing, window and extractor positions
Awkward corner
Purpose-designed corner unit
Overall footprint and access
Need easy-access storage
Drawer unit
Clearance in front of the drawers
Very little worktop
Plan a continuous run
Sink and hob cut-outs, supports and joints
Use narrower cabinets deliberately
Selected JD Greta ranges include common widths such as 300mm, 400mm, 500mm and 600mm. Narrow units can fill useful gaps, but too many small cupboards may cost more and reduce usable internal space. Combine widths to suit the room rather than forcing equal cabinets.
Wall units can store lighter everyday items while leaving the worktop clear. Keep safe distances around hobs and follow extractor and appliance instructions. Confirm the wall construction and use suitable fixings.
Plan the sink and appliances early
The sink, hob, oven, fridge and washing machine determine much of the layout. A sink base needs suitable room for the bowl and plumbing. Read the sink base unit size guide before choosing an 800mm, 1000mm or 1200mm option.
Seven small-kitchen checks
Keep the main walkway clear.
Test every door, drawer and appliance swing.
Leave access to stopcocks, sockets and service points.
Use wall storage where it can be fixed safely.
Compare fixed-height and adjustable cabinet systems.
Check whether worktops, plinths and end panels are included.
Do not book fitting until the complete order has arrived and been inspected.
Frequently asked questions
What cabinet widths work in a small kitchen?
There is no single best width. Combine compatible cabinet sizes around the sink, appliances and available wall length. Selected ranges include 300mm to 1000mm units.
Are wall cabinets useful in a small kitchen?
Yes, when they can be safely fixed and do not obstruct windows, extractors or tall appliances.
Should I use a corner cabinet?
A corner unit can make an L-shaped layout more practical, but measure its complete footprint and door access.
