How To Make A Small Kitchen Feel Bigger With Your Splashback
When it comes to renovating a small kitchen, every detail makes a difference, especially the splashback. This week we sat down with Megan, kitchen designer at Brisbane’s Modern Kitchens Northside, to get her expert take on how the right splashback can make your kitchen feel lighter, brighter, and more spacious.
Q: Megan, how can a splashback help a small kitchen feel bigger?
Megan: Anything that reflects light is going to make a room appear bigger. So if you’re working with a compact kitchen, using a high-gloss tile, a mirrored glass splashback, or even a lightly tinted glass option will bounce light around the room and open up the space visually.
Q: So reflective materials are key, what about colour choices?
Megan: Light colours are essential. Whites and soft neutrals are going to make the space feel larger, while darker tones tend to make it feel more enclosed. We always recommend lighter splashbacks for smaller kitchens unless the client is really after a bold, moody look.
Q: What role does pattern play in the feel of the space?
Megan: Less is more when it comes to pattern. A simple splashback helps the space feel cleaner and more open. Something too heavily patterned can close it in. For example, a herringbone tile with light grout will look subtle, but if you use a bold contrast grout like dark grey, it becomes very busy, and that can make a small kitchen feel even smaller.
Q: Does that same logic apply to cabinetry and other design elements?
Megan: Absolutely. If you want the whole space to feel bigger, stick with flat doors and minimal lines. Something like a shaker or routed door adds more visual detail, which is beautiful in the right space, but in a small kitchen it can start to feel cluttered. Keeping things simple with clean lines and soft tones makes everything feel more open.
Q: Any other tips for making the most of a compact kitchen visually?
Megan: Try to keep a consistent colour palette throughout the space and avoid sharp contrasts between your splashback, benchtop, and cabinetry. And if you can bring in natural light, like a window splashback or even a reflective glass splashback that mimics that feel, it makes a big difference.
Google Reviews
Megan designed my kitchen giving me options and was considerate of my budget, the guys that came out to fit the kitchen and do the plumbing and electrics went above and beyond when we had last minute additions, Al the cabinet guy was easy to talk to and contact. Thankyou all for my awesome kitchen
– Sandra
We were very happy with the planning and installation of our new kitchen in our new Granny Flat. The staff were very helpful with the planning and subsequent installation. We would highly recommend them to anyone looking to install a new kitchen in their home.
– Tony
Thinking of renovating your kitchen big or small?
Visit our Brisbane Kitchen Showroom today at 717 Gympie Rd, Lawnton, or book your free consult today. As one recent reviewer put it, “We absolutely love our kitchen… Communication was flawless and tradies were always on time. Hands down the best on the Northside.” To start your Brisbane kitchen renovation call the team today on 07 3889 9054.
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