‘If you want to have a sleek kitchen, it’s better for multiple, individual drawers to be hidden behind a single large drawer front, as in the kitchen above,’ says Jen Ebert, digital editor Homes & Gardens. ‘Then you can organize kitchen drawers behind the front into categories as you normally would.’
” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/mE4kVwQgmGd9sqgl4sh4IQ–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTExNTI-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/homes_gardens_107/86bd8536dee35917a6e65fa7af5d7258 class=caas-img data-headline=”Ensure drawer space is maximized”> Double island kitchens are a sensible solution if you have a large, square room with plenty of floor space in the center of the room, allowing you to rethink your kitchen layout, so that kitchen storage is at its heart.
‘This type of layout is unusual,’ says Lucy Searle. ‘But it does enable you rethink an awkward space and to design a kitchen that plays to the efficiency of the classic kitchen triangle, with storage worked around it. I would advise that seating is worked into one of the islands to make the space feel sociable rather than soulless – facing a great view is always the best positioning for this if possible.’
” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/hzuZxfAlWztW8JDRwMTVng–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTc1OA–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/homes_gardens_107/e987cac34852e8ff29050f926882be4b class=caas-img data-headline=”Maximize kitchen storage space with a double island”> We’ve sung the praises of half-depth, floor-to-ceiling cabinets for kitchen storage before, and will continue to do so again and again. Half-depth, tall cabinets are a fantastic solution when floor space is limited, or when you need to work cabinetry around architectural elements, such as old chimney breasts, plus they make accessing what you need incredibly easy.
Organizing kitchen cabinets so that the least-used items are up on the higher and lower shelves, and the most-used are between waist and eye level is the most efficient approach.
” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/tP416IA0uz8hR8KBI2hd_w–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTEwODM-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/homes_gardens_107/9bdc2324427833c5d983d735bbf950f5 class=caas-img data-headline=”Design a floor-to ceiling, half-depth cabinet”> Kitchen sinks usually focus on the design of the sink itself with the storage beneath a tricky series of compromises where at best you might keep some difficult to access cleaning bottles.
However, organizing under the sink can be improved both in terms of practicality and looks. Here, a more rustic approach with pretty baskets allows for a variety of kitchen storage uses while creating an eye-catching focus. For a sleeker, more modern finish, you could swap baskets for smart drawer fronts instead.
” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/9ZUi0eYf2IaJYZp76EevOw–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTEyNzA-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/homes_gardens_107/b99a82d22c9530f532e57af317e37c6f class=caas-img data-headline=”Rethink space under the kitchen sink”> ‘There are many creative bespoke solutions to storage in the kitchen,’ explains Jane Stewart, design director at Mowlem & Co London. ‘One way is to maximize full ceiling heights with a traditional sliding ladder, which also makes a great decorative feature.’
To break up a large wall of kitchen cupboard storage, it’s also a good idea to use a combination of closed and open solutions. ‘Items such as collectible ceramics or less frequently used vases can be placed on open shelving to be enjoyed when not in use, while delicate glassware or ‘special occasion’ table linens are best placed in closed cupboards with multiple inner configurations so that they carefully cared for but easily accessed,’ adds Jane.
” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/xs4Fq3j0u4fWROp78eNL7Q–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTExNTI-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/homes_gardens_107/374242719e277a9947d48b4652405f0d class=caas-img data-headline=”Use a ladder to maximize your ceiling heights”> It can be a fine balance keeping cooking utensils close to hand without your kitchen looking too busy. One option is to adopt a professional approach – in this Smallbone kitchen hanging storage has been installed above the working kitchen island, much like you’d find in a working restaurant kitchen. Not only does this mean you can have equipment nearby without cluttering up your countertops, but it also makes a statement in the centre of your kitchen.
An alternative to this is a utensil holder. Whether for keeping on your countertop for ease of reach or for hiding in open shelving, this keeps your utensils together — and looking neat and tidy.
” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/4RlM6DHrm6eZM7qRTex9MA–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTc2OA–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/homes_gardens_107/379f0081d0f2ec69035b3ff48cb050ce class=caas-img data-headline=”Hang frequently used utensils above a working island”> Building a kitchen backsplash out into the room may be of more value to your kitchen than the space it initially takes up. Here in the kitchen of Roddy Murray, founder of interior design practice RJ Murray Design, and his partner Andrew Keith, president of both Hong Kong-based fashion retailer Joyce and luxury department store, is an impressive marble backsplash that not only provides clever cubby-style storage set within, but creates a shelf above to display the couple’s favorite pieces of dinnerware sets and kitchenware too. It’s also a great place to store a coffee canister so that it’s easy to reach early in the morning. ” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/ukQ.96BAljj7IWlkyoYPVA–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTExNTI-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/homes_gardens_107/d4949f89d97525301336bc90c1712ed4 class=caas-img data-headline=”Turn your backsplash into clever storage”>
Unusually shaped rooms don’t have to stand in the way of efficient kitchen storage. In fact, having a bespoke design that works with the shape of the room, rather than against it, can open up the opportunities to add in necessary kitchen storage.
This deVOL kitchen, for example, accentuates the property’s original curved walls and low windows while still incorporating plenty of practical storage space. ‘The curved wall has bespoke shelves and a slender brass rail, giving this area a very special feel,’ adds Helen Parker, creative director at deVOL.
” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/lV.FsjPmyOKcxQ3QRzEuQQ–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTExNTI-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/homes_gardens_107/072891ac865c2beb5d8e3bd133925c13 class=caas-img data-headline=”Tailor your storage design to unusually-shaped rooms”> ‘When it comes to pantry organization ideas, more is always more and the best ones always use every last drop of available space,’ says Louisa Eggleston, creative director at Humphrey Munson. ‘Even the back of the door can be utilized for storage by including a full-length spice and condiment rack to provide easy and quick access to everyday essentials.’
Ladders or steps can help you make the most of the space too, while open shelving allows you to see what you have in your larder cupboard with ease.
” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/_cTf9kBaR0nQsI7uat1eFg–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTExNTI-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/homes_gardens_107/4ddf85fa95a06ec1ce5d362ddabd3fd1 class=caas-img data-headline=”Install a hardworking pantry that uses every inch of space”> Consider your space as divided into zones for specific functions, planning appropriate storage for each area and creating an easy sense of flow around the room.
‘In larger spaces, for example, you might plan a dresser on a wall between the kitchen and dining areas, linking the two zones and providing crockery and cutlery storage close to the dining table and to a dishwasher, perhaps built into an island close by,’ says designer Emma Sims-Hilditch.
” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/JW7Q3L_xdvw_36xcgsHZpg–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTExNTI-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/homes_gardens_107/e90af52984d53760ecb06180eebce4d9 class=caas-img data-headline=”Zone different areas for kitchen storage”> There has been a significant move away from base unit cupboards in favor of drawers. The real bonus of drawers is the ease of accessibility.
If you have found yourself on your hands and knees scrabbling at the back of a cabinet to find some long-forgotten item, you’ll recognize the advantage of kitchen storage ideas that double as drawers, pulling open to offer a full view of their contents.
” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/yJt01IMq.0Z24KRfZSGHZQ–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTExNTI-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/homes_gardens_107/3c8d2ecfb1bca4356ad98a3b9314389e class=caas-img data-headline=”Make the most of cupboard space”> If you have the room, consider a walk-in larder or pantry. Clever pantry ideas provide storage, freeing up the kitchen for preparation and cooking. Ideally, a walk-in includes drawers at the lower level, shelves above for optimum storage, and you may want to add extras, such as a microwave and sink.
Current kitchen trends go a step further with whole kitchens disappearing from view behind vast sliding doors.
Much like a walk-in wardrobe, these generous banks of storage are fitted with shelves and internal drawers to make everything organised in one place.
” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/hBXHUbrrPSxiFcOqrWRs9g–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTExNTI-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/homes_gardens_107/ac98948d4d1ef816bb6d6ad29372a948 class=caas-img data-headline=”Look at the bigger picture”> Islands play an essential part in functional kitchens, providing a handy area to prepare food, socialise, eat and even store extra equipment.
If space allows, incorporate bespoke kitchen islands, such as a unit with handleless cabinets, that will neatly store your glassware and crockery out of sight.
” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/JsN3LvX9Mq0POPeWod7HVw–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTExNTI-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/homes_gardens_107/f233f93bbf1307251c9147d338a2ebf0 class=caas-img data-headline=”Opt for an island”> Kitchen storage can come in many forms other than traditional wall cupboards.
Kitchen shelving is a great option if you are the proud owner of an impressive crockery collection, or are a keen cook who appreciates having ingredients close at hand.
Having everything on display, however, is not for the faint-hearted as it requires a certain amount of dedication to keep shelves looking smart.
” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/R.rAGAVquYVyLoILrXhqcg–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTExNTI-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/homes_gardens_107/be3c7e5ece79e1d043316daa73770d32 class=caas-img data-headline=”Let shelves come into their own”> Small kitchen storage does not have to be purely practical, it can also be stylish.
Your favorite wallpapers can be used to line the back of the cupboard to create an attractive display. Here, a large-scale pattern adds intrigue to the interior of a cupboard, making a striking backdrop for neutral ceramics.
” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/tHVi8gwQXVtk0aBmtGKWHg–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTEzMDE-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/homes_gardens_107/1507496674588d9700584143aff32fad class=caas-img data-headline=”Pretty up a dull cabinet”> A 1290mm-wide drawer will likely allow you to store all your pans in one readily accessible space, which is much easier than delving into the back of a cupboard to retrieve a heavy casserole dish.
When planning how to organize a kitchen, use drawer dividers to store cutlery and utensils, plates and bowls, pans and lids. Some systems include roll holders for foil and cling film, sloping shelves to lay spice jars with their labels easy to read at a glance, knife blocks, espresso racks to organise pod refills, and more.
‘There’s something undeniably satisfying about opening a drawer and finding everything in its right place,’ says Bernard Otulakowski, MD, SieMatic.
” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/fUTt7YjbLxLHt4LGv.g7GQ–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTc2OA–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/homes_gardens_107/70acdba4e84c30987084f6139c20bfa9 class=caas-img data-headline=”Use drawers rather than cupboards”> While drawers make great use of space below hip level, you may also want to make the most of the ceiling height of your kitchen with a section of tall cabinets to house an integrated fridge, freezer and eye-level oven and coffee machine, as well as dry food larder storage.
‘The trend is about lots of storage hidden behind sliding doors, so that the kitchen can be shut away when not being used,’ says Alex Orosia, Marketing Manager, Porcelanosa.
Slide and hide systems can create, when closed, a feeling of uncluttered space, with the advantage that everything is within easy reach when open. Pocket doors which open, pivot and slide into side recesses, leaving contents directly accessible without doors in the way, are also particularly useful here.
” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/rEAhd.7HUa0dzkQyhjR8GA–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTc2OA–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/homes_gardens_107/62d7275d15d2e81da839bdd3c6ffb4c4 class=caas-img data-headline=”Think tall”> Fitted kitchen storage can be specialist and comprehensive, detailed to suit your needs, and adjusted to fit your space.
You can also supplement standard units with bespoke elements, such as an under-stairs pantry, custom-made to fit the dimensions of your room.
If this is not offered by your kitchen supplier, you may wish to commission a local joiner. Here, simple shelves fill up unused space between two fitted cabinets.
” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/ufF7MCRGqbV1WPDF7vrT7A–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTc2OA–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/homes_gardens_107/a8a59b5bfcde7351914814bf674fc39e class=caas-img data-headline=”Invest in fitted storage”> You may prefer to use freestanding kitchen furniture to create a more individual look.
Dressers and glazed cabinets can be used to display decorative china and glassware, adding character to your kitchen, while a sideboard can be used to store china for the dining table, linking cooking and eating areas.
” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/8cRR44Jv5i44ugNP1IHpeA–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTExNTI-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/homes_gardens_107/1383a83b0ba299bfc231fc966454f145 class=caas-img data-headline=”Factor in freestanding elements”> Make your kitchen work efficiently by cutting down on wasted walking time.
If you’re wondering how to organize a kitchen, arrange your storage carefully: it helps if your fridge and freezer are close to your larder, so that you can unload bags of groceries quickly and easily.
The same applies to unloading the dishwasher, so make sure that china and cutlery are stored close by, and preferably also in easy reach of the dining area. Store mugs near the coffee machine or boiling water tap, wine glasses near the wine fridge or your wine storage, and pots and pans under the hob. Try to keep storage areas which need to be accessed frequently away from the main cooking area, so that the drinks server doesn’t fall over the chef.
” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/2VF6OnwsbFY1PWPPVpLYRQ–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTExNTI-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/homes_gardens_107/509326da6f717e92e42963e3f6239801 class=caas-img data-headline=”Make your storage work hard”> Smaller than a walk-in pantry, a double pantry is a great place to hide all the everyday chaos.
Bi-folding cabinet doors offer neater, more usable access to the contents of the cupboards without blocking other cabinets. The space inside is expansive, often with work surface space for smaller appliances, such as your kettle and toaster. It’s also a great place to store your cereals, crockery, tea, coffee and cookbooks.
‘Effective kitchen storage is of course the primary function of the pantry, this comes down to not only the internal working of the cabinet but also where to incorporate it into a kitchen design,’ explains Tom Howley, Design Director of Tom Howley.
” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/iGJVFhDwStYE.K4SsQ9SMA–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTExNTI-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/homes_gardens_107/92dff1f2ae47d04f6ee57410695d1b09 class=caas-img data-headline=”Choose a double pantry”> Why waste the storage opportunity of lovely high ceilings – especially if space is limited elsewhere.
There are a range of kitchen cabinets to choose from and they can be built floor-to-ceiling with handcrafted doors, open shelving or glazed doors; whichever is best for your space.
High cupboards offer useful storage for gadgets or crockery you don’t use or need very often.
According to Tom Howley: ‘With a bespoke kitchen designer, you will be able to design floor-to-ceiling units that give maximum storage. In general, I advise clients only to fit floor-to-ceiling cabinetry if they have lofty, high ceilings.
‘If space is limited, kitchen storage ideas, such as waist-height pull-out drawers are the best option. A waist-height unit means you’ll have access to copious countertop space that floor-to-ceiling cabinetry cannot provide in the absence of an island counter, and lots of low lying storage units. This will open up the space at head height to give the impression of a more spacious kitchen.’
” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/CWd6MsMZJXr1VwPsdFm.3g–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTk2MA–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/homes_gardens_107/b91e9852cce361a390b7c3016c61a8ab class=caas-img data-headline=”Make good use of ceiling height”> Open shelving encourages a tidy space because items are on show. It’s a great opportunity to display treasured pottery instead of hiding them away behind closed doors.
Arrange glass jars containing dried goods or exotic spices in size order on an open shelf for a practically stylish pinch of color. Open shelving helps light flow through and can make a small kitchen look bigger. It’s a great kitchen storage alternative if space is at a premium, as shelves make smaller spaces feel less cramped.
‘We are seeing a real increase in popularity of open shelving amongst our clientele, who want to carry the aesthetic of the rest of their homes into the kitchen by displaying their most beautiful belongings on open shelving,’ says Sophie Hartley, Kitchen Designer at Tom Howley.
” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/FwUSd6MZ7MovpglCMAoa0A–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTExNTI-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/homes_gardens_107/35cb92b56f3ace62a0f783fbeb0d6bf0 class=caas-img data-headline=”Display treasured crockery and pottery”> Curved cabinetry offers practical storage that simply takes up less floor space than square-cornered pieces.
‘The kitchen island is often a hive of activity with cooking, eating, work, learning, and play centered around this area,’ says Tom Howley.
‘When designing a kitchen island, it is essential to consider both internal solutions and exterior proportions. Many aspects of your kitchen design can determine your kitchen island size and shape. You can opt for integrated bench seating, consider extra knee room for practical kitchen seating ideas – or design a bespoke circular table if you have the room.’
” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/KUM1DrLGwwLvcfXGQZYWww–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTE0NDA-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/homes_gardens_107/c692a9ec7022863db8bf03e42a8560a9 class=caas-img data-headline=”Save space with curved kitchen storage”> ‘People don’t only gather in the kitchen at parties; this hard-working room often gets the most footfall throughout the day, as people naturally gravitate towards it for food and company,’ says Tom Howley.
‘As such, it can make sense to separate some activities from the rest of the room. Here, a narrow sliver of wall has been put to good use with a breakfast station. Everyone can help themselves, then close the door until such time as one of them tidies up.’
” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/kQC2uo_Ylz9EvovWLpZAcA–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTEyNzg-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/homes_gardens_107/067d58615d5fefdd312e650e01c77f8d class=caas-img data-headline=”Use every inch to good purpose”> Beautifully constructed kitchen storage ideas can become features in their own right when illuminated with smart kitchen lighting ideas.
One way to really draw attention to them is to light them – whether with downlights in open shelves, as shown in this kitchen picture by Tom Howley, lighting inside cabinetry or with accent lighting from the ceiling or walls.
” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/G9NlreaG.WkGBsqSsVrJ5w–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTE0NDA-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/homes_gardens_107/d1921c384ca6fbaaebcececaf9ab84d3 class=caas-img data-headline=”Light up open storage units”> Sometimes you don’t want to show off kitchen storage – you want to highlight what you’re displaying on them.
In this black and white kitchen, this technique is shown off to perfection. The shelves are painted the same color as the wall behind, allowing the curves of the china to stand out in sharp relief.
” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/yz5e3TOVDxWjTZrIOXmeZg–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTExNTI-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/homes_gardens_107/811b9bd7474c71c252551daefb36ae89 class=caas-img data-headline=”Make kitchen storage blend away”>
