ᐅ How can I optimize the design of IKEA Metod kitchen units in small apartments?

Hello everyone,

I am currently facing the challenge of optimizing an IKEA Metod kitchen unit in a very small apartment to keep it as functional and practical as possible despite limited space. Particularly important to me are aspects such as maximizing storage, selecting and arranging cabinets and appliances, and making good use of corners and niches.

I’m especially interested in how others have approached this when the kitchen area is only a few square meters and typical L-shaped layouts are not possible. How have you maximized storage without making the kitchen run feel too cramped? Are there any clever planning tips or specific Metod components that work especially well for small kitchens?

I look forward to your practical advice and experiences!

Hello Dumaku,

your topic is very practical, and there are indeed several aspects to systematically consider when installing IKEA Metod kitchen units in small apartments.

First, it is essential to measure the exact room dimensions accurately, as Metod offers base cabinets in widths of 20, 30, 40, 60 cm (8, 12, 16, 24 inches), and so on. Very small spaces often benefit from narrower cabinets (e.g., 20 or 30 cm [8 or 12 inches]), which are perfect for bottles, spices, and small utensils.

Another point is the use of corner solutions, such as the so-called “carousel” corner cabinets. If you have gaps or corners, these rotating shelves make a lot of storage accessible that would otherwise be lost. However, they do require more space in width.

It is also worthwhile to plan the interior fittings carefully: pull-out drawers with dividers, pull-out waste bins, and pantry containers help keep things organized. Choosing door fronts that are as light as possible with smooth surfaces visually enlarges the space.

Kitchen appliances should be positioned so they do not reduce workspace. Narrow built-in appliances or multifunctional solutions like combination ovens can help here.

My question: What does your current room layout look like exactly? Are there niches, windows, or doors that impose restrictions?

Wyatt schrieb:
What exactly does your current room layout look like? Are there any recesses, windows, or doors that restrict the setup?

I also think this question is very important! I had the same issue in my first apartment, and it turned out that even small deviations in the planning could lead to frustration.

What helped me back then was taking photos of the room and possible arrangements. That way, I could create a kind of mood board to better visualize which layout made the most sense.

What also helped me optimize the space: I tried to move items out of the kitchen that I didn’t use daily—placing them, for example, on an adjacent shelf or in a hallway cabinet. This left more space for the essentials.

Regarding the Metod system itself, I can add that the option to choose base units and wall cabinets at different heights is really useful for customizing the kitchen to fit the room. For my base units, I chose a height of 10cm (4 inches) to make use of the storage space underneath with extra drawers.

How about your ceiling height? That can also influence the planning.

Dumaku schrieb:
For me, key aspects are optimal storage space, the selection and arrangement of cabinets and appliances, as well as the use of corners and niches.

Hey Dumaku – you’ve picked a great topic! It’s definitely a challenge, especially in small apartments, but one that’s worth tackling!

I optimized a Metod kitchen unit at just 2.5 meters (8 feet 2 inches) long in my own home, and I’d like to share some of my favorite tips with you:

- Cabinets with pull-out interiors are invaluable, allowing you to easily reach items stored in the back!
- Make use of the kitchen’s height. Some install cabinets all the way up to the ceiling, perfect for storing things you only use occasionally (e.g., party dishes).
- Have you considered installing shelves or rails with hooks under the walls for spices or cooking utensils? This saves cabinet space.
- Clever solutions like slim pull-out pantry cabinets between two units can work wonders as well.

Keep at it, it will definitely pay off!! 😊

Hello Dumaku,

To optimize the installation of an IKEA Metod kitchen unit in small apartments, I recommend a systematic approach:

- 1. Planning: Draw an exact floor plan of the kitchen including all connections (water, electricity).
- 2. Cabinet width selection: In small rooms, 20- and 30-cm (8- and 12-inch) cabinets are very suitable for flexible design.
- 3. Interior fittings: Choose drawers instead of doors; drawers provide better access and overview.
- 4. Avoid corner solutions if space is very limited, as carousel units often take up a lot of room – consider open shelves or special corner cabinets with multi-use space instead.
- 5. Wall cabinets: Use the full wall height, but not so deep that it makes the space feel cramped (20-25 cm (8-10 inches) depth is often sufficient for taller cabinets).
- 6. Lighting: Under-cabinet lighting not only improves the appearance but also enhances functionality.

A common mistake is using too many large cabinets, which clutters smaller kitchens and makes them impractical.

A digital visualization (e.g., IKEA kitchen planner) is essential before purchasing.

If you like, I can send you a small checklist with typical cabinet types.

feklo schrieb:
One common mistake is using too many large cabinets, which clutters smaller kitchens and makes them impractical.

That’s so true!

I remember when I initially planned for oversized 60cm (24 inch) cabinets, and it completely overwhelmed the space and made access difficult. After redesigning with 30cm (12 inch) and 40cm (16 inch) cabinets, and especially varying the heights, everything felt much more open and functional.

The topic of countertop space shouldn’t be overlooked either. Sometimes it’s worth adding a pull-out or fold-down work surface that can be extended when needed and tucked away when not in use.

I also found it interesting that lightweight fronts, particularly matte finishes, reduce reflections and visual clutter.

What’s your preferred cabinet front color? For small kitchens, I tend to choose lighter shades, which help create a sense of more space.