If you live in an apartment with a small kitchen and feel like there’s no room for a refrigerator, know that this is an increasingly common situation — especially in large cities like London, where living spaces are shrinking year after year. But that doesn’t mean you have to give up comfort or functionality.
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Renowned designers share creative and practical solutions that show it’s possible to organize compact kitchens without leaving anything out.
With more flexible layouts and smaller spaces, the traditional kitchen concept is changing. In the past, kitchens were expected to have a stove, oven, dishwasher, spacious cabinets, and of course, a refrigerator. Today, it’s common to find apartments where even two of these elements are considered luxuries.
Despite the challenges, it’s possible to rethink the configuration and strategically adapt a small kitchen while keeping essential appliances — including the fridge. Below, discover how experts optimize these spaces with creativity, efficiency, and style.
1. Invest in refrigerated drawers
For kitchens with limited space, refrigerated drawers are among the most functional and elegant solutions. According to Tom Howley, creative director of Tom Howley Kitchens, this type of built-in fridge saves space and offers easy access to fresh items.
“A refrigeration drawer about 1 meter wide allows for easier access, prevents bulky doors from piling up, and visually integrates with the rest of the cabinetry,” he explains. These drawers can also serve multiple purposes — from storing fruits, vegetables, and dairy to beverages and wine.
Richard Davonport, from Davonport Kitchens, adds: “This model is ideal for those who need practicality without compromising on space. It can be installed in kitchen islands or prep counters, creating flow within the space.”
2. Rethink your kitchen layout
In compact kitchens, the secret lies in smart layout planning. Instead of following the traditional setup, why not consider new possibilities? The refrigerator, for example, doesn’t have to sit alongside the rest of the cabinetry.
Simon Ribchester, head of design at Beams, recommends making bold choices: “Consider installing the fridge under the countertop, integrating it into a tall pantry, or even positioning it outside the main kitchen area — like in a hallway, laundry room, or multipurpose cabinet.”
By rethinking appliance placement, you increase your kitchen’s functionality and may even find layouts better suited to your lifestyle.
3. Choose tall and slim models
A tall, slim fridge can be the perfect solution for narrow kitchens. These vertical models take up less width and make better use of vertical wall space — an effective strategy for anyone wanting to optimize space without sacrificing storage capacity.
“Installing a tall fridge at the end of the kitchen corridor or integrating it into floor-to-ceiling cabinets creates a cohesive and functional look,” says Davonport. It’s an excellent alternative for small kitchens with a linear layout.
4. Embed a mini fridge
Built-in mini fridges are a trend in minimalist kitchens and work very well in small spaces. The secret is in the integration — placing the appliance inside cabinetry creates a cleaner and more elegant look.
Designer Thomas Borcherding explains: “Choosing a model that allows for the addition of front panels ensures a uniform finish, avoiding that improvised look some mini fridges can give.”
To compensate for the lack of a large freezer, you can also install a built-in freezer drawer, keeping the space both organized and efficient.
5. Adjust your shopping and storage habits
Having a small kitchen requires more than just smart layout choices — it also demands a shift in consumption habits. According to Richard Davonport, many people overestimate the need for a large fridge.
“Items like eggs, root vegetables, and certain condiments don’t need to be refrigerated and can be stored on shelves or in cabinets,” he points out. This simple change frees up interior space and makes organizing easier.
Additionally, replacing large weekly shopping trips with more frequent visits to the market can help keep your fridge stocked and reduce food waste.
Small kitchens, big solutions
Though it may seem challenging, having a small kitchen with a functional fridge is absolutely possible. The key lies in combining smart space-saving ideas, compact and built-in appliances, and more mindful consumption habits.
With these practical solutions, you can turn a limited space into a smart, organized kitchen that’s perfectly adapted to your urban lifestyle — without giving up what really matters.
Source: Livingetc. This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.
