Increasing storage space is always a goal we have in mind when designing for a kitchen remodel, especially if we are removing walls to open up the space. Losing wall space can often mean sacrificing cabinetry as well. For most of our clients, this is a concern because there is so much that must be stored in the kitchen cabinets: dry foods, pots, pans, dishes, utensils, and cleaning supplies. Don’t forget the appliances: the blender, coffee maker, toaster, can opener, crock pot, waffle iron… the list goes on!
Luckily, there are a few tricks to increase your kitchen storage through smart cabinet designs!
Build up, not out.
Every inch counts when you’re talking cabinet space. The first and most obvious option is to take advantage of vertical space by building cabinets up. Even if you don’t have extremely high ceilings, you’ll be surprised at how much more storage space will be created just by extending your cabinets all the way up. Even if you can’t reach these upper cabinets, it’s a great place to hide items or appliances you don’t use often, but still need to keep.
What’s inside matters, too.
Not everyone is super savvy when it comes to organizing, but that’s okay – that’s what our designers are for! Designing the inside of your cabinets is just as important when it comes to your kitchen remodel. It’s a good idea to set different heights of shelving in cabinets to store various sized items.
We can also install space savers, such as slide-out pot and pan racks, spice trays and utensil dividers, and cookie sheet and pot lid holders. Attaching racks or shelves to the inside of cabinet doors doubles the amount of food or supplies they can hold. Installing a Lazy Suzan to a corner cabinet is also a great way to utilize unused space and keep things organized!
Add an island.
Many times, if we are removing walls to open up a kitchen, our designers recommend adding an island to the newly enlarged space. This isn’t always an option, but it can be a great benefit to a kitchen that lost cabinet space from a removed wall. Not only will you gain cabinet storage space under the island, but you gain counter space on the top of the island as well. This space can provide for a rinsing sink or cooktop to be installed, or can simply provide additional workspace during meal prep.
Get creative with your kitchen cabinet design.
Of course, a big part of remodeling the kitchen is based on aesthetics. You want your kitchen to function well and look beautiful. If you’re used to having some space above your cabinetry, or are worried that a wall of solid cabinets won’t be to your liking, incorporating glass front cabinet doors into your design might be the perfect compromise!
Glass front cabinets can create a stylish look while also providing storage space that serves as a display for special occasion dishes, wine glasses or other items you’d like to showcase. Backlights can be installed to really make the display pop!
There are various different styles of glass front cabinets, including textured or frosted glass and also a variety of trim options, allowing for customization and creativity while still providing storage space.
Don’t rule out shelving.
If glass front cabinets aren’t your thing, there’s still another option to consider: open shelving. While shelving in the kitchen may be a little too casual for those with traditional taste, this new trend provides storage space in areas where cabinets might not work. Shelves can create a lighter, airy feel to a space that might be too cluttered with cabinets.
Our designers know that kitchen remodeling requires knowledge and creativity in order to provide the best outcome. Even if you’re not remodeling your entire kitchen, redesigning your cabinetry with these smart tips can make a huge impact in the storage space and organization!
If you need more storage in your kitchen and your cabinets could use a refresh, contact us today, our designers would love to help!
Warm Regards,
The Medford Remodeling Team
