In a small kitchen, a microwave can feel like the ultimate counter hog, even if you use it every day.
Hidden Behind a Sliding Art Panel
For a real wow moment, I once styled a setup where the microwave lived in a shallow cabinet concealed by a sliding panel that looked like wall art. I love this approach when you want the convenience of a microwave without seeing “appliance” the second you walk in.
You might like:
- Compact Countertop Microwave: Choose a slim model that fits neatly inside shallow cabinets while leaving room for sliding mechanism hardware.
- Cabinet Sliding Door Hardware Kit: Install a smooth-gliding track system to easily mount your art panel or custom door over the appliance nook.
- Textured Peel and Stick Wallpaper: Apply a linen or fabric-textured wallpaper to a plain sliding panel to replicate the elegant look shown here.
Countertop Corner With a “Landing Zone”
In my first studio, I parked my microwave in a back countertop corner and added a small tray beside it as a dedicated “hot dish landing spot.” It kept my main prep area clear while still letting me reheat and set things down without juggling.
Check these products out:
- Compact Countertop Microwave Oven: Choose a sleek, compact model that fits perfectly into corners, freeing up valuable prep space for cooking.
- Wooden Serving Tray: Designate a safe spot for hot dishes with a stylish wooden tray that protects your countertops.
- Large Wooden Cutting Board: Lean a sturdy cutting board against the wall to add texture and warmth while hiding potential cable clutter.
Upper Cabinet Built-In Cubby
I once helped a friend create an upper cabinet cubby so the microwave looked almost built-in, and it instantly made the kitchen feel more custom. I’ve found it works best when there’s nearby counter space for setting down hot plates.
Products that could assist:
- Compact Countertop Microwave: Choose a sleek, compact microwave that fits perfectly inside your custom cabinet cubby for a built-in look.
- Woven Storage Basket: Add natural texture and hide clutter in open upper shelves with a decorative woven basket like this.
- Wooden Cutting Board: Display a beautiful wooden cutting board nearby to add warmth and protect your countertops from hot dishes.
Open Under-Counter Shelf in a Base Cabinet
I’ve set up an under-counter open shelf for a microwave in more than one small-space kitchen because it’s simple and budget-friendly. Personally, I like this spot when you want the microwave accessible but not visually dominating the room.
You might give these a try:
- Compact Countertop Microwave Oven: Choose a compact microwave model that fits seamlessly onto your open shelf without overcrowding the valuable space.
- Sturdy Wooden Floating Shelves: Install durable wooden shelves above your counter to create functional storage for decor that complements your cabinetry.
- Ceramic Tea or Coffee Pot: Add a stylish ceramic teapot to your under-cabinet shelves for an aesthetic yet functional kitchen accessory.
Island End Cap for Easy Access
One of my favorite client layouts put the microwave on the kitchen island end cap, and it made snack duty so easy from any direction. I loved that it didn’t steal prep space, and it kept traffic out of the main cooking line.
Some ideas to consider:
- Compact Countertop Microwave: Choose a sleek, white or stainless steel microwave that fits perfectly on your island’s end without overcrowding.
- Woven Storage Basket: Add texture and practical storage for linens or snacks under your microwave with a sturdy woven basket.
- Small Potted Artificial Plant: Soften the look of your appliance setup by adding a touch of greenery next to your microwave.
Wall Oven and Microwave Stack
When I’m styling a kitchen for a streamlined look, I always love a microwave stacked with a wall oven for that “cooking tower” vibe. I’ve used this layout myself during a remodel, and it kept everything in one efficient zone.
Possibly handy products:
- Stainless Steel Microwave Trim Kit: Achieve that custom built-in look instantly by seamlessly framing your microwave with a professional trim kit.
- Gold Cabinet Pulls: Upgrade your cabinet fronts with sleek brushed brass hardware to perfectly match this kitchen’s elegant aesthetic.
- Built-In Convection Microwave: Maximize your cooking options with a versatile unit that fits perfectly into standard wall oven cabinetry.
Floating Shelf to Lift It Off the Counter
In one tiny apartment, I mounted a heavy-duty floating shelf specifically for my microwave, and it freed up the only stretch of counter I had. I kept it near an outlet and at a practical height, and it felt like I gained a whole new surface.
Give these a look:
- Heavy-Duty Wooden Wall Shelf: Instantly create counter space by mounting this sturdy shelf to hold your microwave or small kitchen appliances securely.
- Retro Countertop Microwave Oven: Refresh your kitchen’s aesthetic with a vintage-inspired microwave that adds functional style to your new open shelf.
- Natural Linen Kitchen Towels: Add texture and convenience by draping soft, absorbent linen towels right where you need them for daily cleanup.
Coffee Bar Nook Microwave Zone
I once created a mini coffee bar that included the microwave, and it kept morning chaos from taking over the cooktop area. I loved having one “heat-and-go” station where mugs, snacks, and quick breakfasts lived together.
A few relevant products:
- Retro Countertop Microwave: Upgrade your coffee station’s look with a simple, vintage-style microwave that handles quick reheats effortlessly.
- Rustic Wooden Floating Shelf: Create vertical storage above your microwave for coffee beans and mugs to keep counters clutter-free.
- Glass Storage Jars with Wood Lids: Organize your coffee grounds, sugar, and snacks in stylish clear jars for an uncluttered, cohesive display.
Angled Corner Cabinet Placement
Deep corners can be black holes, so I’ve placed a microwave on an angled corner shelf to make that space finally work. I tried this in a small L-shaped kitchen and loved how it opened up the straight counters for actual prep.
Try these:
- Compact Retro Countertop Microwave: Choose a compact microwave like this to fit snugly into corners without overwhelming your available countertop workspace.
- Corner Kitchen Cabinet Shelf Organizer: Maximize your deep corner space by adding a tiered shelf organizer to store items above or beside your appliance.
- Wooden Lazy Susan Turntable: Place a rotating tray near your corner setup to keep spices or oils easily accessible despite the deep counter depth.
Dining Sideboard “Reheat Station”
In one apartment, I put my microwave on a sturdy sideboard in the dining area, and it honestly made entertaining easier. I loved keeping reheating and popcorn-making out of the kitchen bottleneck while still having it close by.
Useful items to consider:
- Cane Door Sideboard: Create a stylish foundation for your microwave with a sideboard featuring natural rattan or cane detailing.
- Retro Countertop Microwave: Choose a vintage-inspired microwave to blend appliance functionality seamlessly into your dining room’s decor.
- Dried Pampa Grass Decor: Soften the look of your appliance station by adding a vase with natural dried botanicals nearby.
