Start with the essentials
List the appliances and storage you use often. Less important items should not take space away from comfortable food preparation or easy access.
Use height carefully
Tall housings and wall units can increase storage. Mixing closed cabinets with lighter areas stops the room from feeling crowded.
Choose visual calm
A limited palette, good task lighting and fewer breaks in the cabinet fronts can make the room easier to read. Practicality still comes before making it look bigger.