Minimalism is all about elevating the interior of a home and helping to create a space that is refined. By taking this approach, research has found that if a space is unorganised and filled with clutter, it can prove to be difficult to focus or concentrate. Therefore, minimalism is the key to living a more laid-back life as people are less irritable, less distracted and more productive in an organised area, according to psychologytoday.

While designing a kitchen with maximum storage may seem like a challenge, or reducing clutter may seem like a lengthy task, it is possible with smart planning and organisation. Whether it’s due to space of your kitchen, the design of your house or your personal preferences for a minimalist approach, James Bernard, director of design and build company Plus Rooms, gives a guide on how to go about it.

Plan an efficient layout
Optimise your kitchen layout to make the most of available space. Consider the following layout options:

• Galley Kitchen: A narrow kitchen with cabinets and appliances along two parallel walls.
• L-Shaped Kitchen: Cabinets and appliances form an L shape, maximizing corner space.
• U-Shaped Kitchen: Utilizes three walls for storage and workspace.
• Island Kitchen: Incorporates an island for additional storage and counter space.

Opt for multi-functional furniture
Choose pieces that serve multiple purposes, such as an island with built-in storage or a dining table with hidden storage compartments. Consider collapsible or foldable furniture that can be tucked away when not in use as these structures have a simplicity that will make the space feel more sophisticated.

Accommodate the structure’s different needs and functions
Instead of making yourself work for the kitchen, make the kitchen work for you. Wisely choose which kind of compact cabinets, whether sliding or soft close cabinets will work for you and your needs. Or consider installing tall, narrow shelves or cabinets that utilize vertical space efficiently. If you have a large open kitchen/living room, celebrate this space, by opting to draw attention to the lines and the curbs, which will in turn free up the area and open the interior visually.

Clean surfaces and think about the colours
In order to create a succinct and flowing space, think about restoring the kitchen back to its original features and contemporary surfaces to make it stand out more. A restrained palette, simplicity and muted tones can help inspire this.

Pull-out pantry
A pull-out pantry or pantry cabinet with slide-out shelves provides easy access to items and keeps everything organized. And it’s a great space-saving solution too, especially if you have a large family or a compact kitchen. If you have some cabinets or drawers, use organizers like dividers, pull-out shelves, and tray inserts to maximize storage efficiency.

Downsize your appliances
Invest in smaller appliances or appliances with multiple functions to save counter and storage space. Alongside this, reduce the number of dishes, glasses and kitchen gadgets that are on the counter to give your kitchen a contemporary and elegant frontage.

Plus Rooms is a family run design and build business, operating within Greater London, that specialises in improving and enlarging residential properties. Having completed over 1,400 projects, they coordinate all aspects of the project, including the design, planning permission, party wall notices and the building works. For more information visit: https://plusrooms.co.uk/