When it comes to designing or renovating a kitchen, there is a concept that is gaining more and more weight: the functional kitchen. It is no longer sought only to be beautiful, but to be practical, comfortable and well used. From the way the furniture is placed to the small details of storage, everything counts to make cooking, cleaning or simply being in the kitchen easier and more pleasant.
Whether you have a lot of space or a small functional kitchen, there are solutions to make everything fit like a glove without compromising on style.
What is a functional kitchen?
A functional kitchen is one that is designed to make everyday life easier. It is not only about aesthetics, but that each element has its purpose and contributes to make cooking and moving around the space comfortable, efficient and stress-free.
What is the definition of a functional kitchen?
It is a type of kitchen where design and functionality go hand in hand, as for example, in minimalist kitchens. The distribution is planned to minimize displacements, the furniture is adapted to the routines of the home and prioritizes order, ergonomics and space utilization. It is not just decoration, it is utility.
Characteristics of a functional kitchen
Functional kitchens share a number of key elements:
- Intelligent distribution: the so-called “work triangle” is applied (cooking area, washing area and storage area), which facilitates movement within the kitchen.
- Ergonomicfurniture: accessible cabinets, pull-out drawers, well-placed shelves and worktops at the right height.
- Optimizedstorage: make the most of every nook and cranny with solutions such as corner units, hangers, vertical shelves or hidden drawers.
- Efficientlighting: combine general lighting with spot lighting on worktops or work areas.
- Integratedappliances: they should occupy the minimum space and fit in with the overall design.
What is a fully functional kitchen?
A fully functional kitchen not only meets the basic requirements, but takes them to the next level. It has good lighting, well laid-out work areas, thoughtful storage solutions and efficient appliances. Everything is geared towards making cooking, cleaning or storage convenient and uncomplicated.A functional kitchen should have:
- Good lighting.
- Furniture with easy access.
- Efficient household appliances.
- Sufficient countertop space.
- Vertical storage and hidden solutions.
Differences between functional and traditional cooking
Unlike more classic kitchens, where design can take precedence over usability, a functional kitchen focuses on practicality. It is not only about noble materials or showy furniture, but that every corner has a clear purpose. Even decorative styles adapt: in a functional kitchen, less is more.
Benefits of having a functional kitchen at home
- Saving time and effort in daily tasks.
- Better use of space, even in small homes.
- Greater comfort and safety when cooking or cleaning.
- Visual order, which generates a feeling of spaciousness and cleanliness.
- Added value in case of sale or rental of the property.
How big should a functional kitchen be?
There is no single size, but it is considered that a functional kitchen should be at least 6 m² if you want to include all the basics with some comfort. Even so, the important thing is not so much the size as the distribution: a small functional kitchen, well designed, can perform as well or better than a larger one poorly used.
Small functional kitchen: how to make the best use of space
Living in a small apartment or having a kitchen with few square meters does not mean giving up functionality. In fact, a small functional kitchen can be a perfect example of good design if you think logically and creatively.
More efficient layouts for small functional kitchens
These are some of the most common layouts in small kitchens:
- In-line kitchen: ideal for narrow spaces, everything is placed on a single wall.
- L-shaped kitchen: two walls are used, leaving space to move around.
- U-shaped kitchen: perfect to take advantage of three fronts, although it requires more width.
- Kitchen with island or peninsula: only feasible if space permits, but very functional if used as a work and storage surface.
Recommended furniture, appliances and accessories
- High furniture up to the ceiling, to take advantage of all the volume.
- Drawers with internal dividers, so that not a single centimeter is wasted.
- Smaller appliances, such as two-burner cooktops or compact dishwashers.
- Extractor hoods integrated into the furniture to free up visual space.
Storage ideas for small and functional kitchens
- Open shelving instead of tall cabinets.
- Hooks and bars on the wall for utensils, pans or spices.
- Auxiliary trolleys with wheels, which can be moved as required.
- Hanging organizers inside cabinet doors.
What is the best shape for a small kitchen?
The most efficient layout in a small kitchen is usually in line or L-shaped. These options allow you to have everything within reach without saturating the space. The U-shaped kitchen also works very well, as long as the passageways are respected. The main thing is to facilitate movement between the cooking, washing and storage areas.
How much does it cost to build a mini kitchen?
The price of a functional mini kitchen depends on the materials, the appliances chosen and whether or not to do construction work. In general, you can find complete solutions from 2,000 € or 3,000 €, although if you opt for custom-made furniture and medium-high range finishes, the cost can easily exceed 6,000 €.
What is the best color for a small kitchen?
Light colors, such as white, beige or soft gray, help to give a feeling of spaciousness and brightness. Pastel tones or light wood finishes also work very well. If you want to add a touch of personality, you can add color in small details, such as handles or an accent wall.
How to illuminate a small functional kitchen to gain space, by SC Herrajes
At SC Herrajes we have been helping to transform small kitchens into comfortable, practical and visually larger spaces for years. And if there is something that makes a difference in a small functional kitchen, it is lighting. Well thought out, it can make a room of a few meters seem much larger and more pleasant.
Our recommendation is always to combine three types of lighting:
- General, soft and well-distributed light: we opt for a uniform ceiling light, without marked shadows. We use perimeter LED profiles or recessed spotlights that do not overload the environment or occupy visual volume. We choose LED spotlights in neutral or warm white tones, which give a feeling of cleanliness without being cold.
- Spot lighting in work areas: In a functional kitchen, every corner counts. That’s why we install Dual LEDs under the wall units that directly illuminate the worktops. In addition to being very practical, they avoid annoying shadows when cooking or cutting food, as the light can be adjusted and you can choose its temperature, cold or warm, depending on the moment. .
- Decorative light for depth: In small kitchens, a well-placed LED strip can change everything. For example, in a display cabinet, a flex neon strip under a bar or on an open shelf, with a Gola profile. This type of indirect light provides a visual effect that gives depth and modernity without taking up physical space.
We also take great care with the finishes: in light furniture, with smooth fronts and integrated hardware, the light bounces better and amplifies the feeling of space.
If we add all this to a good distribution and practical furniture, we get that even the most compact kitchen becomes a spacious, comfortable and full of life.
If you want ideas adapted to your kitchen, SC Herrajes will be happy to advise you.
Conclusion: Your functional kitchen starts with good planning.
In short, a functional kitchen is not a luxury, but a smart way to take advantage of space and gain in quality of life. Whether it is a large room or a small functional kitchen, the important thing is that it adapts to you, your rhythm and your needs.
Plan ahead, look for real solutions and trust professionals who understand what you need. With a good foundation, you will have a practical, beautiful and fully utilized kitchen. And the best part: you will enjoy every moment you spend in it.
At SC Herrajes we make kitchens great.
At SC Herrajes we believe that every centimeter matters, especially when it comes to small kitchens. That’s why we design solutions that not only fit, but transform the space: thoughtful lighting and systems that make your day-to-day life more comfortable.
If you’re looking for a functional kitchen that makes the most of every nook and cranny, count on us. We’re here to help you create a space that really works for you.
