Why Storage is the Most Important Aspect of a Functional Kitchen

Having a lot of kitchen storage is essential to any kitchen design. Whether a small galley kitchen or a large open-plan kitchen, having the right storage options is key to making it a highly functional space.

All this said, planning your cabinetry and storage space can be a bit tricky. How much space do you want to dedicate to storage? And how do you install various cabinets, drawers, cupboards, and shelves without making your kitchen look smaller than when you started?

The secret stands in choosing the right storage solutions in order to create an organized and ergonomic space that looks and feels great, even when the kitchen is in full use. But since we know this adventure can be confusing and challenging, especially for new homeowners, we have a few tips to get you started.

Determine What Goes Where

Once you know where major plumbing fixtures and appliances will go, you can start designing the storage space around them. This aspect is important because you can plan the function of a storage space based on its proximity to an appliance.

For instance, you can design a dish cabinet right next to the dishwasher and the sink to avoid any lengthy trips between the two. Also, if you have a bit of space in the corner of a cabinet, you may want to design a wine-holding or spices space. 

The idea is to plan your storage space based on your kitchen habits. Start by designing your cabinets to fit your unique needs and avoid standard designs. This way, you’ll have a lot more fun in the kitchen, and you’ll learn to appreciate a space that’s made for your habits.

Maximize Storage Space with a Pantry

One of the perks of creating your dream kitchen is that you can completely revamp the storage space and, thus, the entire cooking experience. When you have everything a drawer or cabinet away, there’s less countertop clutter and less cleaning to do.

Also, you can create extra storage space but adding a stand-alone pantry (in case there isn’t a walk-in one). While the classical pantry is usually an addition to the kitchen, you can use a single cupboard to store everything that doesn’t fit anywhere else. 

You can store fresh produce, dried goods, cookware, or small appliances in it. You can even design a specialized pantry – trending high right now are breakfast pantries and gin bars. Overall, regardless of your kitchen style, there’s a pantry to suit. With thoughtful planning, you can have the best storage space that’s practical and stylish.

Cupboards & Drawers

While some will argue drawers are the best option, we say a well-planned kitchen can use both. The secret is to place them in the right space and make sure you can use them as intended during the planning phase. 

Drawers are more practical and easier to use because you can use their entire surface to store various things, such as crockery, pans, or cutlery. And, if there’s any space left, you can add an internal drawer that doesn’t show on the front – how cool is that?

Cupboards, on the other hand, can be used to enclose large appliances (like the washing machine or the dryer) that often disrupt a kitchen’s design. Also, if you have a tall cupboard, you can use it to store cleaning supplies and tools such as a mop, broom, vacuum cleaner, and so on. 

Key Takeaway

To make the most of your kitchen storage, consider how you use the kitchen and what items are used most often. By combining various storage options, you can create an effective storage system that will make your dream kitchen even better.

So talk to your designer (or contractor) to work out the best solution to suit your needs and desires, so you can have an enjoyable kitchen that works for you. You can also browse online storefronts like ArchiPro and find kitchen storage essentials to make your kitchen sing.