Feature article
Larger than life: The heart and soul of small kitchen design
Living in smaller spaces is a reality for many. With this comes the need for clever design solutions.

AI summary
Discover inspirational designs for small kitchens that prove compact spaces can be highly functional and beautiful. This roundup showcases five unique New Zealand projects from architects like Cheshire Architects.
Key design trends include:
- Using natural timber and matte black finishes
- Integrating appliances and open shelving
- Choosing tactile materials for warmth and character
From modern bungalows to rustic baches, these examples offer clever, high-performance solutions for maximising your kitchen's potential regardless of its size.
A compact rural kitchen of tactility and striking simplicity
In a bungalow, a small kitchen renovation delivers a calm and warm aesthetic
This small kitchen by Cheshire Architects can open to the outdoors, allowing for more guests when required. Image: Sam Hartnett
A tiny kitchen in a cabin among the trees of Punakaiki Forest
In this tiny kitchen, space is maximised with deep benches allowing guests to congregate at the kitchen bar. Image: David Straight
In a bunker-like bach, this compact kitchen design references days gone by
This small kitchen in black and timber is a source of refuge from the harsh surroundings. Image: Simon Devitt
Within an unassuming home in Central Otago, a small kitchen delivers performance on a large scale
This small, high-performing kitchen in Central Otago creates a sense of warmth with the use of natural materials. Image: Andrew Urquhart
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