ᐅ How can I build IKEA Metod kitchen units with plenty of storage for small spaces?

Hello everyone,

I am currently planning my new kitchen and am strongly leaning towards the Ikea Metod kitchen series because of its flexibility and modern design. However, I have the problem that I only have a very small space available, about 2.5 meters (8 feet) wide and approximately 3.5 meters (11.5 feet) long.

My specific question is: How can I design Ikea Metod kitchen units to maximize storage space while keeping the layout functional in a small, narrow room?

I am especially interested in tips on which cabinet types, interior fittings, or organizational systems work best in small kitchens and how to best combine the modules to get as much storage as possible.

Does anyone have experience with what heights, widths, and depths of cabinets are practical? Are there any tricks to effectively use dead corners or to maintain a comfortable countertop workspace despite having lots of storage?

I would appreciate any suggestions that go beyond just assembling the modules, as I really want to make the most of the available space.

Best regards, Berkzar

Berkzar schrieb:
How can I design Ikea Metod kitchen units to maximize storage while keeping them functional in a small, narrow space?

Hello Berkzar,

First of all, respect for your well-thought-out question – that definitely makes it easier to help! 😊

In small spaces, tall cabinets are your best friend. Use tall cabinets that reach up to the ceiling; they provide a lot of storage and also make the room feel taller and more elegant.

Dead corners can be fitted with pull-out systems, for example Ikea’s "Magic Corner," which really helps you make the most of every centimeter and store bulky items like vacuum cleaners or large pots.

I also recommend narrow drawers with adjustable interior organizers, so everything stays tidy and you can quickly find what you need.

To keep countertop space, choose wall cabinets that aren’t too deep; otherwise, the kitchen will feel like it encroaches too much into the room.

One final tip: keep fewer appliances on the countertop to leave room for working and make the kitchen feel less cramped.

Good luck and feel free to share how it goes!

pautanner schrieb:
You can equip dead corners with pull-out systems, such as Ikea’s "Magic Corner," which really helps you use every centimeter

I can only agree with that, especially if, like Berkzar, you have limited space; this makes the corner truly practical.

At first, I was also overwhelmed by the many modules and options that Ikea Metod offers – it helped me to plan carefully what I really need (lots of pots, more dishes, food storage?) and how to organize it best.

Maybe it helps to make a list of everything you want to store and then choose cabinet types accordingly.

What is often underestimated in small kitchens is how important the interior fittings are: drawers instead of just hinged doors, pull-outs with joints, soft-close hinges, adjustable shelves – all of this makes daily use much more comfortable.

Don’t stress, plan step by step, and try out the Ikea planning tools. It will definitely turn out well!

jokla schrieb:
Maybe it helps to make a list of everything you want to fit in and then choose the cabinet types accordingly.

Exactly! Additionally, consider how you cook and what you use most often – this way, you can arrange the most important items ergonomically and within easy reach.

I also recommend, when planning with the Ikea Metod system, thinking about corner units with open shelves or closed upper cabinets – these create a lighter feel and can provide extra storage space.

Small rooms benefit from light-colored fronts and good lighting, which make the space appear larger.

And if possible, use upper cabinets with interior lighting or glass fronts to add depth and improve visibility.

Enjoy planning – the kitchen is the heart of the home, so the effort is definitely worth it!