One of the biggest components of a kitchen remodel is new cabinetry. Updating the look, improving storage space, and creating a more functional kitchen overall is directly related to the layout and design of the cabinets. Making structural changes to your kitchen, such as removing a wall or relocating appliances, can result in loss of cabinetry and as a result, loss of storage space. That’s why it is so important to hire a contractor that is experienced with kitchen remodeling and cabinetry design! You want to make sure the professional you choose to work with is knowledgeable when it comes to space optimization and storage solutions.
Increasing storage space is always a goal we have in mind when designing a kitchen remodel, especially if we are removing walls to open up the space. For most of our clients, maximum storage space is a priority 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! Including features like appliances garages, cookie sheet racks, spice racks, utensil drawers, and the like may seem to be common sense, but you’d be surprised at how many home builders do not include these types of features in their standard kitchen models. This is especially true for older homes, built before the 90’s.
If you are considering remodeling your kitchen or just updating your kitchen cabinets, here are a few tips to keep in mind:
1. 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 pleasantly surprised at how much more storage space will be created just by extending your cabinets to the ceiling. These upper cabinets are a great place to store items or appliances you don’t use often, but still need to keep.
Another great tip to increase storage space for bulky items is to incorporate deep drawers into your cabinetry design. Replacing lower cabinets with drawers is always something we suggest to our clients looking to remodel their kitchen. This makes for much easier access and a cleaner look, as it prevents too much clutter for sitting on top of the counter!
2. Think about organization.
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 as the outside 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, 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 Susan to a corner cabinet is also a great way to utilize unused space and keep things organized!
3. 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.
4. Consider glass-front accent cabinets.
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
5. 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 light, airy feel to a space that might be too crowded 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 on 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 Design-Build Team
