​7 Ways to Make a Small Kitchen Look Bigger With the Right Materials – Flooring, countertop, and backsplash tricks.

Small kitchens can be big on style—and smart material choices can make them feel larger, brighter, and more open. Whether you’re planning a full remodel or a simple refresh, the right flooring, countertops, and backsplash can transform a compact space into a stunning, functional showpiece. Here are seven proven design tricks to help your small kitchen live large.


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1. Choose Light, Reflective Flooring. Light-colored flooring—like pale oak, light maple, or creamy porcelain tile—reflects natural and artificial light, giving the illusion of a bigger space. For an extra boost, choose materials with a subtle sheen to bounce light around the room. Large-format tiles or wide planks can also help by reducing the number of grout lines, making the floor appear more seamless.
Pro Tip: Run your flooring lengthwise toward the main source of light. This draws the eye forward and makes the kitchen feel longer.

2. Create Continuity Between Rooms. If your kitchen opens to another space, using the same flooring in both areas helps eliminate visual barriers. A consistent surface flows from one room to the next, making the entire area feel more expansive.

3. Pick Countertops That Brighten and Blend. When space is tight, busy patterns can overwhelm. Opt for countertops in light, neutral tones like soft whites, warm beiges, or gentle grays. Materials such as quartz, granite, or solid surface in subtle patterns reflect light and keep the visual field clean.
Pro Tip: Waterfall edges (where the countertop material extends vertically down the side of cabinets) create a sleek, continuous look that feels more open.

4. Add Depth with Gloss and Glass Countertops and backsplashes with a polished finish—whether quartz, marble, or glass tile—reflect light and make surfaces feel more spacious. Glass or mirrored backsplashes, in particular, can double the perception of depth by reflecting the opposite wall.

5. Go Vertical with Your Backsplash Running backsplash tile to the ceiling draws the eye upward, making your walls seem taller. Choose elongated subway tiles or vertical patterns to emphasize height.

Pro Tip: Keep grout lines thin and close in color to your tile for a cleaner, less “busy” appearance.

6. Use Color to Create Airiness. A light and consistent color palette is key. For a cohesive look, match or closely coordinate your backsplash and countertop tones with your cabinetry and flooring. Fewer contrasting breaks make the space feel more unified and therefore larger.

7. Don’t forget the Finishing touches. Details like under-cabinet lighting can make a world of difference. Highlight your backsplash and countertops while eliminating harsh shadows that shrink a space. Pair with minimalist hardware to keep lines clean.
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Ready to Make Your Kitchen Feel Bigger? At Advanced Interiors, we specialize in pairing the perfect flooring, countertops, and backsplash to transform your kitchen—no matter the size. Our design experts can help you choose materials that maximize space, light, and style. Visit our showroom or schedule a consultation today to start planning your dream kitchen.

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