ᐅ How can I install IKEA Metod cabinets in a space-saving way for small kitchens?

Hello everyone,

I am planning to buy new cabinets for my very small kitchen and have decided on the Ikea Metod series. My challenge is to design the cabinets to be as space-saving and functional as possible, since there is very little room available and the kitchen is very tight.

I am therefore interested in the following:

- Which cabinet sizes and combinations do you use in small kitchens?
- Do you have any tips for optimal interior fittings (e.g., pull-outs, inserts) to maximize storage space?
- Does anyone know clever installation methods to accommodate unusual room shapes or niches?
- How do you handle the limited space regarding appliances and work surfaces?

I already have some ideas but would like to rely on experiences and practical examples before making a decision.

Thank you for your help!

ignacio55 schrieb:
My challenge is to design the cabinets as space-saving and functional as possible, since there is really very little room available and the kitchen is very tight.

I know that feeling very well! Small kitchens can be frustrating because it often seems like there’s not enough space for everything. I once worked with Metod in a tiny kitchen, and I can tell you it’s important to use the corners cleverly.

For example, I installed carousel turntable inserts in the corner cabinets, which makes good use of the space that would otherwise be wasted.

Many people here face similar challenges, so don’t give up—there are solutions!

In small kitchens, base cabinets with a depth of 40 cm (16 inches) are often better than the standard 60 cm (24 inches), as they provide more room to move without significant loss of storage space.

Install pull-out drawers inside the cabinets to improve access to everything.

Additionally, I use tall cabinets up to 100 cm (39 inches) high for extra storage space.

An important consideration when planning Metod cabinets for small kitchens is to precisely measure the area, including all corners, windows, and connections.

It is highly recommended to use the planner tool at Ikea and enter the measurements accurately.

A proven approach is to work with low units that have minimal depth, as sancamille already mentioned. Additionally, I suggest integrating internal pull-out systems like the Maximera drawer, as this makes accessing the cabinet contents much easier compared to a simple shelf.

For corners, the METOD corner cabinets with hinged doors or carousel units are suitable, as Pedro40 already noted. These are ideal for avoiding dead spaces.

I have also found that a small open shelving unit next to the stove extends the workspace without taking up too much room.

Please avoid building too high, as this can make the kitchen feel even smaller.

From an architectural perspective, using IKEA Metod systems in small kitchen layouts achieves the best efficiency when modified cabinet depths are applied.

This means that instead of the typical 60 cm (24 inches), 40 or 37 cm (16 or 15 inches) deep base cabinets are recommended to increase maneuverability, although this reduces maximum storage capacity.

Additionally, the system offers flexible interior fittings such as adjustable shelves, drawer runners, cutlery trays, and storage boxes, which enhance usability.

For corners, the use of carousels with swing doors is, to my knowledge, currently the most efficient way to maximize storage space.

Combining Metod with the Alex series for small or narrow drawers can be practical when countertop depth is limited.

Planning Recommendations:

- Reduce cabinet depth; 40 cm (16 inches) base cabinets provide more room to move around
- Drawers with soft-close function for improved comfort
- Corner cabinets with carousel shelves or LeMans pull-out fittings
- Tall cabinets for effective vertical use, but preferably not up to the ceiling to avoid dust collection
- Countertop extensions, for example mounted as a fold-down table on the wall

I also recommend using as many open shelves or compact wall cabinets as possible to maximize space utilization without overcrowding the area.