8 Ways to Maximize Space in Your Kitchen

Every inch counts when organizing your kitchen. It's crucial to find creative solutions that manage and maximize your space.  Whether you're looking to make the most of a small kitchen or looking for fresh space-saving ideas, check out these eight ways to maximize space in your kitchen.

Utilize Vertical Space 

When organizing your kitchen, up is the first direction to look. There's often a wealth of unused space near the ceiling or on walls for you to harness as storage. Hanging pot racks, pegboards, and magnetic knife strips are practical and add a touch of rustic charm to your kitchen decor. When remodeling, our designers often extend the cabinets to the ceiling or remove unnecessary soffits, if possible, to help add a few inches of space. 

Pro tips:

• Pot Racks: Choose a sturdy pot rack that can bear the weight of your cookware, and hang it close to your prep area for convenience.
• Pegboards: Paint these in colors that complement your kitchen, and use them for utensils, spices, and measuring cups.
• Magnetic Strips: Install these strips anywhere in the kitchen near where you do most of your prepping. They're convenient for small, metal tools that are easily misplaced.

Organize With Shelving 

Open shelving can make a space appear larger and keep your kitchen essentials within arm's reach. They also encourage a more minimalist approach to kitchenware, forcing you to keep only the items you use and love on display.

Smart Shelf Solutions:

• Group by Use: Have a dedicated shelf for frequently used items to keep your kitchen workflow efficient.

• Keep It Light: Glass cabinets or light wood shelves can maintain an airy feel in the kitchen.

Use Baskets: To maintain a tidy appearance, store bulkier or less attractive items in decorative baskets or bins on the shelves.

Multi-functional Furniture 

Every piece of furniture should earn its keep in a tight kitchen space. Look for tables with storage under the top, islands with shelves or drawers, or bar carts that can be wheeled out when needed and tucked away when unused. These versatile pieces provide convenience and reassurance in your kitchen layout.

Multi-Functional Marvels:

• Extendable Tables: are excellent for those who love to entertain. They can be reduced to smaller sizes when not used, saving precious space.

• Kitchen Carts: These versatile pieces come in various styles and can be used as extra prep space, storage, or a serving station.

Folding Chairs and Tables: Keep these on hand for when you need extra seating or prep space, and then store them out of sight when not in use.

Drawer & Cabinet Organizers 

 The quest for a tidy kitchen often begins with the battle of the drawers and cabinets. Thankfully, many ingenious organizers on the market can help keep your kitchen items in order.

Keep Control of your Cabinets:

• Adjustable Drawer Dividers: Customize these to the size of your kitchen tools and keep everything in its place.
• Cabinet Caddies: Turntable-style organizers like Lazy Susans can make reaching items in the back of your cabinets easy.
• Under-Sink Caddies: Keep cleaning supplies and other items organized and easily accessible with under-sink caddies.

Clear Countertops 

Cluttered countertops can make even a large kitchen feel small. An unobstructed workspace and an open, airy atmosphere are essential for meal prep.

Tidying Tricks:

• Store Appliances: Unless you use an appliance daily, keep it in a cabinet or pantry and only bring it out as needed.

• Wall Mount Microwaves: If you can't give up the microwave, consider a wall-mounted model to free up counter space.

• Appliance Garages: These are great for storing and using appliances without unpacking and repacking them daily.

Small Appliance Storage

Storing small appliances can be a significant challenge, but there are always better solutions than leaving them out. Clearing your countertops alone can make a kitchen feel twice the size.

Store Smarter, Not Harder:

• Overhead Shelves: For those appliances you only use occasionally, overhead shelves can be the perfect solution.

• Pull-Out Cabinets: Add pull-out shelves to your lower cabinets to easily access and stow small appliances.

• DIY Storage: Use magazine holders or bread bins to store skinny appliances like stand mixers or toasters.

Evaluate & Cleanout 

Sometimes, the best space-saving tip is to have less stuff. Regularly go through your kitchenware and donate, toss, or sell anything you don't use or love.

Kitchen Cleanse:

• Be Realistic: If you haven't used an item in a year, it's time to part ways.

• One In, One Out: For every new kitchen gadget you bring, remove something you don't use.

• Consider Alternative Storage Spaces: Do you need six cutting boards? Is there a better place for your less commonly used items, such as seasonal dishes or serving platters?

Think Outside the Box

The most effective space-saving solutions often come from the most unlikely places. For instance, a wine rack can be repurposed to store water bottles, or a shoe organizer can store cleaning supplies. Feel free to get creative with your kitchen space.

Out-of-the-Box Ideas:

• Magnetic Spice Jars: Attach jars to the fridge or a metal panel for an inventive spice storage solution.

• Tension Rods: Use them to hang cleaning supplies under the sink or to create mini-shelves in your cabinets.

• Mason Jars: Not just for preserving, mason jars can organize anything from snacks to utensils.

A well-organized kitchen can turn a daily chore into a delightful culinary experience. By implementing these space-saving strategies, you can enjoy the efficiency and comfort of a kitchen that makes the most of every inch. Whether navigating a small kitchen in the city or just looking to optimize your culinary space, these tips will help you create a harmonious cooking environment. Contact us for an in-home consultation and start organizing today.