8 ways to keep a compact kitchen better organized

Tools and tricks to dramatically improve the function of a small kitchen.

Don’t suffer just because your kitchen has limited storage or no counter space. There are ways to dramatically improve the function of a small kitchen.

Here are some tools and tricks to create a more satisfying cooking space.

Crate & Barrel Orb Trays, $90–$100; Umbra Float Utensil Holder, $15 at umbra.com

USE A UTENSIL ROD

Clear out that drawer or container filled with cooking utensils, and take advantage of your vertical space by hanging your tools instead. You’ll free up storage space for other uses and your main tools will be at arm’s reach.

ADD A BAR CART

A bar cart isn’t just for serving drinks. If you’re out of storage space, employ a cart, many of which have drawers or large shelves to corral your overflow.

TRY SLEEK CONTAINERS

Store nonperishables in pretty glass canisters, and display them instead of taking up limited pantry space. This works great for breakfast cereals, granola and sugar.

Left to right: Artisan Glass Canisters with Oak Lids, $49 for four at containerstore.com; Pottery Barn Harlow Wall-Mounted Wine Storage, $39–$49; Ikea Stenstorp Kitchen Cart, $149

USE YOUR VERTICAL SPACE

Do your cupboards reach all the way to your ceiling? Many kitchen cabinets stop much lower, leaving precious vertical space unused. Have high cupboards built in to match your existing ones, or hang high shelves in unused spaces. These areas are perfect for lesser-used items like vases and special-occasion pieces.

CORRAL ITEMS IN TRAYS

It’s nice to keep a few cooking essentials close to the stove, and even nicer to have them neat and organized in a pretty tray. Try an on-trend metallic style or a lacquer version for easy cleanup.

SHOWCASE YOUR FAVES

Some kitchenware is too pretty to hide away. If you have beautiful wooden cheese boards, a marble mortar and pestle, pretty candleholders or a collection of wooden spoons, make them a part of your décor instead of storing them out of sight.

GET CREATIVE WITH GLASSWARE STORAGE

If your cupboard space is limited but your glassware collection is large, try hanging stemmed glasses upside down, bar-style. Glassware racks can be hung on the wall or under cabinets, freeing up space and showcasing your wine-glass collection at the same time.

ADD A BUTCHER-BLOCK CART

If your counter space is limited, a butcher-block cart is a great way to add storage and additional surface area to your kitchen. Keep knives and prep gear in the drawers, store larger items on the shelves underneath, and use the top surface for chopping and cutting.