ᐅ How can I build IKEA Metod cabinets optimally for small spaces?

Hello Claudiale,

I would like to answer your questions in detail, as small spaces require special planning.

First, when it comes to the layout, an L-shaped design is usually more practical than a single row since you can effectively use two walls. If only one wall is available, consider installing tall cabinets to maximize vertical storage space.

Second, regarding cabinet widths: definitely use the smaller modules with 20cm (8 inches) width to avoid waste and create a more precise layout. This way, you can better adjust the area to your needs.

About the door issue: regular hinged doors need a lot of space to open in small rooms. While there are no true sliding doors for wall cabinets in the Metod system, you might consider open shelves or cabinets with flap fronts. Be careful with the height, as flap doors require clearance space when opening.

Third, don’t forget about the interior fittings of the cabinets:
- pull-out drawers inside
- spice and bottle organizing systems
- pull-outs with integrated waste sorting
all of these greatly improve convenience.

One more tip for height adjustment: use plinths from the range so that the worktop stays at an ergonomic height, even if the cabinets are very tall.

Can you provide exact measurements of the room and the existing connections? That will make it easier to offer specific suggestions.

Hi Claudiale,

I completely agree that optimizing small Metod kitchens can be really fun, almost like putting together a puzzle. 😄 Just a few tips to encourage you:

- Play around with open shelves and light-colored fronts; they make the kitchen feel more spacious.
- There are fantastic corner solutions from Metod that are often underestimated, such as magic corners or carousel drawers.
- If the space is very small, a narrow bar stool at the countertop can be a good alternative to a large table for seating.

I love making small spaces cozy and functional with these tricks. Good luck!

Hello Claudiale,

I would like to add a few basic rules for small kitchens:

- Passageways should be at least 80 cm (31.5 inches) wide, preferably around 90 cm (35.5 inches).
- The countertop in the main work area should be at least 60 cm (24 inches) wide.
- Use slim cabinets but always plan three zones (sink, cooking, preparation) arranged in a triangle.

Claudiale schrieb:
Do you have tips on how to best arrange these zones in a square floor plan?

For square floor plans, I recommend an L-shape or U-shape layout if possible. This allows for short distances between zones and makes good use of corners.

Also, a mobile element like a small rolling cart can be very useful for flexible use.

Clear planning in advance saves a lot of problems later on.

Hello Claudiale,

I’d like to go into more detail about storage efficiency with Metod, especially for small spaces.

First, some technical considerations:
- Using base cabinets with drawers instead of doors is a must. Drawers provide much better visibility and access.
- Keep in mind that a cabinet height of about 80 cm (31.5 inches) plus a countertop results in a typical working height of 91–92 cm (36–36.2 inches). If your room is only 2.40 m (7 ft 10.5 inches) high, you can still install wall cabinets starting from around 40 cm (16 inches) in height, which saves space above the countertop.

Practical tips:
- Corner cabinets with pull-out systems make use of the deep corner space.
- Depending on the dimensions, by cleverly combining 20 cm (8 inches) and 40 cm (16 inches) wide base cabinets, you can fill the space very precisely.

I would also recommend testing your options early with the IKEA planning software to include all measurements and connections.

Finally, a small trick – use inner drawers for cutlery and small items, so you don’t have to take up unnecessarily wide drawers. This helps keep things organized and saves space.

If you like, I can also prepare a PDF summary of my recommendations for you, just let me know.

Kinbu schrieb:
Using base cabinets with drawers instead of doors is a must.

Thanks for the advice, I will implement it that way.

Palenar schrieb:
If you want, I can create a PDF summarizing my recommendations for you.

That’s very kind of you, but I’d prefer to keep the discussion here in the forum. Maybe you could briefly summarize your tips?

One more question:
I noticed that there are some Metod elements with a shallower depth. How does this affect small rooms? Is it advisable to use the shallower cabinet units, or does that result in too much loss of storage space?

Claudiale schrieb:
I noticed that there are some Metod units with shallower depth. How does that affect small rooms? Is it practical to use these shallower cabinets, or does it result in too much lost storage space?

Very good question!

Shallower cabinets work very well in small rooms when width or length is limited. While there is indeed some loss of storage compared to standard 60cm (24 inch) deep cabinets, this is balanced by increased free space for movement in the room.

Advantages of shallower cabinets:
- More open space in front of the cabinets, which is especially important in tight kitchens.
- They are often easier to access since they are less deep.

Disadvantages:
- The surface area for large pots or appliances is reduced.
- Interior drawers or pull-outs are usually more limited in shallower depths.

My advice: Consider what items you want to store and where. Shallower cabinets are ideal for spices, plates, and glasses. For baking trays, pots, and pantry items, deeper base cabinets work better.

So, it’s a trade-off between storage capacity and comfort.

If you provide more measurements and ideas on how you want to use the space, I’m happy to help with a detailed plan.