There are many tips and tricks available for maximizing kitchen storage space. Sometimes no amount of drawer organizers or hanging cup hooks provides enough storage space for a comfortable kitchen that suits your cooking needs. Even if your kitchen has a relatively small footprint, keep the following considerations in mind when you’re planning your kitchen remodel.
You don’t have to sacrifice beauty for efficiency
Sometimes when we think of efficient living, we think of cramped spaces that are made purely for efficiency with no attention to the aesthetic appearance of living space. When remodeling your kitchen to utilize space better, consider options to improve storage space, the convenience of ready access, and avoiding clutter.
Choosing cabinets that go all the way to the ceiling can add a tremendous amount of otherwise unused space for storage. Corner cabinets or circular pantry cabinets can make great use of a confined area. If you opt for pull-out pantries or like the idea in general, you won’t need to set aside space for a walk-in pantry or closet-like room off your kitchen. For those of us who love spices, you can also implement a pull-out spice rack in narrow areas, for example, alongside a fridge.
Multi-functional areas save space
Depending on the size of a home, it can be cozy or efficient to keep a dining area in the kitchen. Some kitchens, however, don’t come with the extra room to support an entire dining room. To add dining space to your kitchen design, consider an island around which bar stools can provide a convenient, casual dining experience.
A sink with a sliding cutting board can double as both a great place to both clean and cut fruits and vegetables and provide a little extra temporary countertop storage space. If your kitchen remodel includes countertops, changing the sink is worth considering.
Uninterrupted counter space makes some cooking tasks more manageable. Some jobs, like rolling out dough, quickly illustrate the benefits of large countertops. One ample counter space is sometimes better than two or three broken up small countertops.
Work-flow Triangle
When designing your newly remodeled kitchen, consider the science of functionality – the work-flow triangle. This triangle is the space between the three most heavily used locations in your kitchen: the refrigerator, the stove, and the sink.
Based on this time-tested concept, the most efficient kitchens co-locate these items in a triangle. While the angles aren’t critical, the lengths of the triangle’s legs should add up to at least 12 feet, but no more than around 23-26 feet. Each leg of the triangle should be no more than 9 feet, but ideally, 3-4 feet minimally.
Work with professionals
Seasoned remodelers and kitchen designers can help you craft and implement your dream kitchen to be both beautiful and efficient. They’re likely to consider factors in form and function overlooked by many.
When you’re ready to love your kitchen, call Kevin Hall Builders for a free consultation. For the unprepared, spend some time on Pinterest and Houzz to get ideas. You can also learn about the average cost of a kitchen remodel too.