ᐅ How can I best install Ikea Metod cabinets in small kitchen spaces?

Hello everyone,
I am planning to equip my small kitchen with IKEA Metod cabinets, but I find the planning a bit challenging. The cooking area and therefore the storage space are limited, so I want to design the cabinet units to be as space-saving and functional as possible. I am thinking of a combination of base cabinets, wall cabinets, and possibly corner solutions that offer maximum storage without restricting movement.

My specific question is:

How can I best use IKEA Metod cabinets in small kitchen spaces? Which module sizes and layouts are especially recommended to make the most efficient use of every centimeter? What fittings (e.g., pull-outs, drawers, organized compartments) make the most sense in such a confined space, so that I can have enough storage despite the compact area?

I look forward to tips, experiences, and also critical feedback if certain approaches do not work well.

Thanks in advance!

For small kitchens, I recommend maximizing vertical space with tall base cabinets and wall-mounted cabinets. Corner cabinets with hinged doors or swing-out mechanisms make good use of dead corners. Internal pull-outs improve access to items in deep cabinets and help keep things organized.

nolan schrieb:
Pull-out drawers make it easier to access items in deep cabinets and help keep things organized.

That’s true, but especially with IKEA Metod and small kitchens, you should carefully consider the width of the cabinet units. Not every standard size fits well in compact spaces, and it is often recommended to work with modified or combined cabinet sizes to avoid gaps.

You should also pay attention to door swings: some doors open too wide and can block the space. Sliding doors or folding doors might be better alternatives in some cases, even though they are not standard options for Metod.

In my opinion, it’s important not to rely solely on product dimensions but to plan the kitchen precisely according to the room measurements and clearance areas. That’s the only way to make the most of every centimeter (inch).

Hello Suplo,

your question is very practical and important. I have personally set up several small kitchens with Metod cabinets and can offer some recommendations:

- Start with an exact measurement of the kitchen, including all windows and doors. Also, note the dimensions of the water connections if a sink or dishwasher will be integrated.
- For base cabinets, widths of 40, 60, or 80 cm (15.7, 23.6, or 31.5 inches) are suitable—these standard sizes provide a lot of flexibility when combining units. If possible, choose 60 cm (23.6 inches) wide cabinets, as this size ideally balances storage space and countertop area.
- Wall cabinets should make full use of the wall height to maximize storage. However, be careful not to choose ones that are too deep, as this can restrict movement.
- Corner solutions (e.g., with carousel or Magic-Corner pull-outs) are very useful for effectively utilizing dead corners. This is especially beneficial in small rooms to gain extra storage space.
- Internal drawers and pull-out baskets improve organization and access, especially in wide cabinets. This way, you don’t have to remove everything to find something.

I also strongly recommend using the planning software offered by IKEA. This allows you to virtually try out different modules and see how they fit in your space.

If you have any further questions about the exact equipment, I’m happy to help.

Hey Suplo! I think your idea is fantastic for making the most of small kitchen spaces with Metod! 🙂 I completely redesigned my tiny kitchen myself using IKEA Metod and was very happy with the results. My tip: really use every wall space up to the ceiling and install lots of wall cabinets!

Also: Drawers instead of hinged doors in the base cabinets – this gives you much easier access.

gregto schrieb:
Corner solutions (e.g., with carousel or magic corner pull-outs) are very helpful to make good use of dead corners.

So true! Especially the magic corner system perfectly filled the space for me and I don’t feel cramped. Definitely give it a try!

Chin up, it will turn out great!

Hello Suplo, a little tip from me for small kitchens with Metod: play around with color choices and handles! Light-colored fronts and handleless options make the space look visually larger. And if you arrange the cabinets not just along one wall but also around a corner, you create more storage and the kitchen appears more interesting.

noge58 schrieb:
Drawers instead of hinged doors on the base cabinets – this gives you much easier access.

I can only agree with that. I implemented it myself, and it feels like a small revolution 🙂

One more thing: consider combining open shelves with closed fronts. This breaks up the look and gives you space for decorations or important items you use often.

Good luck with your build!