Maximizing storage is one of the goals of kitchen remodeling projects. Remodelers can tweak various aspects of an existing design to eliminate dead spots and take advantage of every inch. Here are four tips to help you maximize storage and organization in your kitchen remodel:
Utilize Integrated Appliances & Appliance Drawers
Everyday appliances can take up valuable countertop space. One way to recover this space is through integrated appliances built into the cabinetry. Microwaves, coffee machines, mini dishwashers, and chilling bonus drawers can fit into your cabinetry, creating more space on your countertops. Consider adding an appliance garage cabinet for smaller appliances that can’t mount. The garage cabinet can take in tea kettles, toasters, blenders, and mixers when not in use. Your countertops can remain free and ready for meal preparation.
Drawer appliances are another kitchen remodeling option that can save floor space and improve organization. Drawer appliances work for small households and kitchens that can’t take standard full-size appliances. You can install a dishwasher drawer at the end of a kitchen island or small refrigerator drawers to provide convenient cold storage for breakfast items. Appliance drawers and integrated appliances help to keep your kitchen neat and aesthetic as they hide behind polished front panels and countertops.
Repurpose Kitchen Islands To Include Storage Units
A kitchen island can take up significant space in the kitchen and offers opportunities to integrate storage units. You can repurpose the island with cabinets, shelves, and drawers to store various kitchen items. If you have a higher or larger island, consider integrating storage units on all sides, including where the kitchen stools go. Maximize every inch of potential space and add aesthetic shiplap cabinet doors to hide the additional storage. Kitchen island storage units can hold utensils, dinnerware, and more.
If you use the island for food preparation, you can add storage units to hold the most-used items, including fresh vegetables. Consider customizing the storage based on the items you intend to store. Kitchen islands can also include power outlets that you can use to plug in blenders, hand mixers, and other small appliances when in use. You can also have a slide-out tray for the toasters, coffee makers, and other small appliances. This allows you to keep the island countertop free when using multiple appliances.
Install Your Wall Cabinets Up To The Ceiling
One way to maximize storage with your kitchen remodel is to install cabinets to the ceiling. Cabinets that reach the ceiling can make your kitchen feel taller and offer more storage options. Consider buying foldable stepping stools or sliding library ladders to help you reach the top cabinets. You can also use the top storage areas for family antiques, fine dishware, and items used less frequently. When designing your ceiling cabinets, optimize the cabinetry to match your needs and kitchen use.
If you’re a baker, consider built-in vertical tray dividers for your chopping boards and muffin tray. Consult your remodeler to come up with custom drawer dividers that organize your items. You can also use open-face drawers, roll-out shelves, and built-in paper towel dispensers. Pull-out shelves are more functional, allowing you to reach deep storage without pushing items to the side. Consider installing heavy-duty pegboards to cabinets close to the sink to add hooks for kitchen tools and brushes.
Working with kitchen cabinet manufacturers is important when installing cabinets up to the ceiling during a kitchen remodel to ensure seamless integration, optimal storage solutions, and expert guidance on materials, finishes, and hardware, ultimately enhancing functionality and aesthetics.
Utilize Drawers, Hidden Storage & Open Shelves
Deep cabinets can be challenging to reach and organize. You can replace them with drawers that make picking an item stored in the furthest part of the unit easier. The drawers can also contain smaller appliances or dish warmers. Consider repurposing false drawers using hinges and angles to create more storage space below the sinks. You can use this space to store cleaning essentials tidy and close to where they’re used. If the unit doesn’t have a false drawer, install an under-sink pull-out to create an organized storage space.
You can replace deep cabinets with creative hidden storage like built-in spice racks. Add a deep recess with custom shelve height and width for your glass jars and items. Use brass rails to keep the jars from falling out. Hidden storage units keep your cabinets well-organized and stylish. You can use them to keep eyesores like knife blocks off the counters. When adding drawers, utilize custom drawer organizers to elevate your organization to the next level. Consider adding open shelves to use vertical space and make your kitchen airy.
Working With Kitchen Remodeling Experts
Kitchen remodeling requires a well-thought plan and professional execution. Choose a team of experts to help you find quality materials and finishes for your project. Discuss your storage and organization needs with the remodeler early and ask for insights on maximizing storage. Choose reputable remodelers with extensive portfolios that you can review.
