Living in a condo in places like Toronto, Burlington, or Oakville comes with a lot of perks, less maintenance, modern buildings, and a great location. But one thing many condo owners struggle with is kitchen space. Condo kitchens are often compact, and while they’re efficient, they can feel a bit tight when you’re trying to cook, entertain, or just move around.
The good news? You don’t need to knock down walls or spend a fortune to make your condo kitchen feel bigger and better. With smart renovation ideas, you can turn your small kitchen into a space that’s both stylish and functional. At Modern Day Solutions, we’ve helped hundreds of homeowners make the most of their limited space. Here’s how you can too.
1. Use Open Shelving Instead of Upper Cabinets
Upper cabinets can make a small kitchen feel boxed in. Swapping them for open shelves gives your kitchen an airy, open feel. You can still store your everyday dishes, glassware, or even small plants, but without the visual bulk that closed cabinets bring.
Pro tip: Stick to 2 or 3 open shelves and keep them tidy to avoid a cluttered look.
2. Choose Light Colours
Light colours reflect light and instantly make a space feel larger. Stick with whites, soft greys, or light beige for your cabinets, backsplash, and walls. A glossy finish on your cabinets or tiles can also help bounce light around the room.
Add contrast with darker hardware or a bold backsplash, but keep the overall tone soft and clean.
3. Go Vertical with Storage
When you can’t expand out, go up. Vertical storage helps you use every inch of your kitchen. Install tall cabinets that go all the way to the ceiling. Use that top space for items you don’t need often, like seasonal cookware or extra pantry supplies.
You can also add hooks or magnetic strips on the wall to hang utensils, cutting boards, or small pans.
4. Opt for a Compact Island or Peninsula
If your condo allows, a small island or a peninsula-style countertop can give you extra storage and prep space without crowding the room. Some islands come with built-in cabinets, wine racks, or even seating options that double as a dining space.
Just make sure there’s enough room to move comfortably, ideally 36 inches between counters or appliances.
5. Use Smart Appliances
Appliances are getting smarter and smaller. Choose slim, space-saving appliances that do the job without taking over your kitchen. Look for compact dishwashers, 24” fridges, and slide-in stoves designed for smaller homes.
Bonus: Newer models are often more energy-efficient, too, saving you money in the long run.
6. Install a Pull-Out Pantry
If you don’t have room for a full pantry, a pull-out pantry cabinet is the next best thing. These narrow cabinets slide out and offer tons of storage in a small footprint. Perfect for dry goods, canned items, and spices.
You can even install one between your fridge and the wall or next to the stove to use that “dead space” wisely.
7. Try a Mirror Backsplash
Want your kitchen to feel instantly bigger? Install a mirror backsplash behind your countertop. It reflects light and gives the illusion of more space. It’s also modern, easy to clean, and adds a cool design twist.
If a full mirror backsplash isn’t your style, you can use metallic or glass tiles for a similar effect.
8. Keep the Design Simple and Clean
In small spaces, less is more. Avoid heavy patterns or too many colours. Stick with clean lines, uniform cabinet fronts, and minimal hardware. Use handleless cabinets or slim bar pulls for a modern, streamlined look.
Avoid open clutter on countertops; store away what you don’t use daily. A clean kitchen always looks more spacious.
9. Multi-Purpose Furniture for Dining and Storage
If you don’t have a separate dining area, use multi-purpose furniture that fits your space. Think of a breakfast bar with storage underneath, or a folding dining table that can be tucked away when not in use.
Some homeowners use benches with hidden compartments for extra storage, great for storing small appliances, linens, or cleaning supplies.
10. Use Glass or No Doors
In small kitchens, cabinet doors can feel bulky. Try using glass-front doors to give a more open feel. You can also opt for some open cabinet boxes or shelves with no doors at all.
Bonus: It encourages you to stay organized and avoid piling up unused dishes!
Final Thoughts
Small condo kitchens don’t have to feel cramped or boring. With the right renovation ideas, they can be just as stylish and functional as larger kitchens. From light colours and smart storage to sleek appliances and custom layouts, the possibilities are endless, especially when you have a professional team guiding you.
At Modern Day Solutions, we’ve helped transform small condo kitchens across Hamilton, Toronto, Burlington, Oakville, Milton, and Niagara Falls. Since 2012, we’ve specialized in creative, budget-friendly renovations that make the most of your space, without cutting corners.
Ready to transform your condo kitchen?
Let’s bring your vision to life. Reach out today for a free consultation and discover how we can help maximize your kitchen space with style.