How to Maximize Small Kitchens and Bathrooms: Space-Saving Ideas That Actually Work
Not every home is blessed with a sprawling kitchen or a massive master bath and that’s totally okay. Whether you’re working with a cozy condo in Mequon or a charming older home in Cedarburg, there’s a lot you can do to make a small space feel bigger and more functional.
At Kettle Moraine Kitchen & Bath, we’ve helped homeowners all over Wisconsin turn compact kitchens and bathrooms into efficient, stylish spaces they love. Whether you're dreaming big or working within a tight budget, here are some of our favorite space-saving ideas to consider.
Smart Storage = Stress-Free Living
One of the biggest frustrations in small spaces? Clutter. And where does clutter usually come from? Not having the right storage solutions. Before you start knocking down walls, let’s first talk about making the most of the space you already have. With clever cabinet features and some strategic upgrades, you can unlock serious storage potential.
Here are a few of our go-to ideas:
Pull-out pantry shelves - Maximize narrow cabinet spaces and keep everything organized and easy to reach.
Toe-kick drawers - Use the area beneath your lower cabinets for storing flat items like trays and baking sheets.
Vertical storage - Take cabinets or shelving all the way to the ceiling to stash seasonal or less-used items.
Floating shelves - These open up wall space while giving you a place to display decor or store daily essentials.
On a budget? Even simple additions like over-the-door organizers, stackable bins, or drawer dividers can go a long way.
Rethink Your Doors for More Flow
Here’s a sneaky space hog: doors. In small rooms, traditional swinging doors can take up prime real estate. One of our favorite space-saving upgrades is changing how your doors open, or eliminating them altogether where possible.
Options we love:
Pocket doors - These slide into the wall and don’t take up any swing space, making them ideal for bathrooms or pantries.
Barn doors - A stylish and functional choice that adds character while saving square footage.
Open shelving - Removing a few cabinet doors can visually open up a kitchen or bath, making it feel more spacious and less boxy.
Not sure which option works best? We’ll help you figure out what fits your home’s style and layout.
The Great Tub vs. Shower Debate
Bathtubs are awesome…if you actually use them. But if your tub is collecting dust and your bathroom feels tight, converting it to a walk-in shower can make a huge difference. Showers take up less space, especially if you go with a sleek glass enclosure or a curbless design.
That said, it’s all about what works for your lifestyle. If you love a good soak or have young kids, a compact tub-shower combo might be the smarter move.
A few remodeling ideas to consider:
Walk-in showers with glass walls to open up the visual space.
Deep soaker tubs with a smaller footprint if you’re short on space but big on relaxation.
Shower niches or built-in benches to add functionality without taking up extra room.
Either way, modern fixtures and smart layouts can bring luxury and comfort to even the smallest bathrooms.
Go Compact Without Compromising
When it comes to small kitchens and bathrooms, downsizing doesn’t mean downgrading. There are so many high-quality, space-saving fixtures and appliances out there now that are built specifically for smaller homes and tighter layouts.
Think smart, not small:
Wall-mounted vanities or sinks - These keep the floor clear and make the room feel more open.
Narrow-depth countertops - Save inches without losing functionality.
Slim-profile appliances - Today’s compact dishwashers, ovens, and fridges are just as powerful as their full-size siblings.
Pro tip: Installing an over-the-range microwave can free up valuable counter space in tight kitchens.
Light It Up—Literally
We can’t stress this enough: lighting changes everything. It’s one of the easiest and most effective ways to make a small room feel larger and more inviting. Poor lighting can make even a big space feel closed in, while the right fixtures can visually expand your kitchen or bath.
A few bright ideas:
Under-cabinet lighting - Great for task lighting and creating a cozy glow in the kitchen.
Wall-mounted lights - Ideal in bathrooms where vanity lighting might be limited.
Natural light - If your remodel includes windows, even a small one can totally transform how the space feels.
Mirrors help too! They reflect both natural and artificial light, making rooms feel bigger and brighter.
Big Dreams, Any Budget
No matter the size of your space or your wallet, there are always ways to make it feel bigger and work better for your everyday life. Whether you're tackling one small update at a time or ready to jump into a full renovation, we’re here to help guide the process from start to finish.
At Kettle Moraine Kitchen & Bath, we know Wisconsin homes inside and out. As a veteran-owned, woman-owned local business, we’re proud to serve families in Cedarburg, Mequon, Germantown, and beyond with personalized design and quality craftsmanship that fits you.
Ready to Make the Most of Your Small Space?
Let’s get your dream kitchen or bathroom out of your head and into your home. Contact us today for a consultation, and let’s chat about your space-saving goals. We’ll help you figure out what fits your home, your lifestyle, and your budget.
Get in touch today or check out our recent Kitchen and Bathroom projects below for inspiration!
