There is no one size fits all approach when it comes to kitchen storage. Some people like to have their crockery on display, others want it stored behind cupboard doors. Some are happy to stand on a stool to reach items stored away, others will want those items low and more accessible. While your kitchen storage will depend on the layout, style, and personal preferences, there are some things you should always consider when planning out kitchen storage solutions.
We spend so much time in the kitchen, the heart of the home, so it’s important to consider the layout and workflow of how you use your kitchen in order to put a practical plan and design in place. When you consider the workflow, you can maximise the use of the space, allowing you to plan and organise kitchen storage.
A lot of people make the mistake of opting for a stylish design without considering their own needs and how they use their kitchen. It might look great, but an impractical kitchen can be a nightmare. Take the time to consider how you use your kitchen at home and what you’re lacking. Do you dream of more bench space? Want your microwave at eye level instead of bending down or reaching up to it? Is the sink at the other end of the kitchen? Consider your movement and workflow and you will be able to get a lot more out of your new kitchen than if you were to just pick a pretty design without consideration.
Here are a few things to consider when planning your kitchen storage:
Golden rule for kitchen storage: Make sure frequently used items are easily accessible. It will save so much time and hassle!
Pots and pans should be stored near the oven, glasses should be stored near the fridge, the rubbish bin should be near the sink, and your chopping boards and knives should be positioned near the bench space.
Ensure you’re making the most of the space available (particularly if space is already tight to begin with). Corner drawers, or cabinets featuring special pull-out, pivoting mechanisms (that ‘curve’ around a corner), are great ideas to maximise space in your kitchen and utilise awkward spaces in a practical way.
Under the kitchen sink can easily become a sore point, as it’s easy to make a mess. Because of the pipes in awkward places, the best way to combat this mess is to seek out storage shelves that are designed specifically to fit around the pipes.
If you have, or will someday have, kids in your home, you want safe kitchen storage solutions. Ensure knives and sharp objects are stored far out of reach, with further safety measures in place, for when children are around. If your children are able to assist with their own lunches, consider where you’re placing their lunchbox and drink bottles, so they’re within their reach, and away from the stove or oven where hot pots and pans may be located.
Built in spice racks on doors are a great way to maximise space. Easy to find, rather than rummaging through your pantry and also concealed, not taking up bench space. Depending on the size and position of your kitchen doors you may consider other shelving or storage solutions.
While you’re busy thinking of storage options, it’s important to remind yourself to leave empty space so that your kitchen doesn’t feel too busy cramped before you’ve even added in people to the mix.
Our in house Interior Designer will work with you to design and build the kitchen (and home) of your dreams, taking in to account all of your preferred options for storage and suggesting a few storage ideas that we think really work. Talk to our friendly team today to discuss your dream kitchen. Call us on (02) 4938 1345.