Does your kitchen feel crowded no matter how often you tidy it? You’re not alone. Kitchens are the heart of the home, but they’re also magnets for clutter. The problem isn’t always that you have too much stuff — it’s often about how your space is organised. With a few smart changes (and appliances that balance form and function, like a stylish Smeg oven), you can reclaim your kitchen and make it feel open, calm, and inviting.
Hidden Culprit: Poor Storage Systems
One of the biggest reasons kitchens feel cluttered is a lack of effective storage. If items don’t have a proper home, they end up on benches or shoved into overstuffed drawers. Tall cabinets, pull-out pantry shelves, and drawer organisers can transform how much you fit in without adding bulk. Even small touches, like a spice rack inside a cupboard door, free up valuable counter space.
Overcrowding the Benchtop
It’s tempting to keep everything within arm’s reach, but too many appliances, jars, and utensils can make your counters look messy. Choose just a few essentials — like a kettle, toaster, or coffee machine — and store the rest. Keep decorative items minimal. A clear bench instantly makes the kitchen feel bigger and easier to use.
Multipurpose Furniture and Appliances
Another source of clutter is having too many single-purpose tools. Ask yourself if you really need three different blenders or a drawer full of novelty gadgets. Instead, invest in multipurpose appliances and compact furniture. A kitchen island with built-in shelving, or an oven with multiple cooking modes, saves space and reduces the need for extra equipment.
The “Just in Case” Mentality
Many people hang onto duplicates “just in case.” But do you really need five mixing bowls or stacks of mismatched mugs? Keeping only what you use regularly clears visual clutter and makes your space feel more functional. Donate or store extras elsewhere so they don’t take over your kitchen.
Lighting and Colour Choices
Clutter isn’t always physical — it can also be visual. Dark, heavy colours or dim lighting make spaces feel smaller and more crowded. Brighter, lighter tones and good lighting open up the room. Under-cabinet lighting, reflective splashbacks, and neutral paint shades can instantly make a cluttered kitchen feel fresh and airy.
Small Habits That Make a Big Difference
Put items back in their spot immediately after use.
Wipe benches as you go to stop clutter building up.
Do a weekly “reset” — clear out expired food, tidy drawers, and check what you no longer need.
Store similar items together so you don’t waste time hunting.
Creating a Kitchen That Works for You
Your kitchen doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. By rethinking storage, limiting what sits on your counters, choosing multipurpose items, and keeping on top of small habits, you’ll find your space feels calmer and more efficient. Add in thoughtful design touches like better lighting and smart appliances, and your kitchen will become a place you enjoy spending time in — not just another room to clean.
