Kitchen storage ideas: Clever solutions for an ergonomic design
by
Checkatrade

So, you’re looking for kitchen storage ideas? You dream of a spacious kitchen, plenty of counter space and more cupboards than you know what to do with. However, you’re a realist, which means you’re in the market for clever storage solutions with ergonomic designs.

In short, you want to give the illusion of spaciousness. You want to combine the rustic elegance of a whimsical farmhouse with the contemporary upgrades of modern living.

Well, so do we, hence the reason we spoke to an expert. Here’s what Deirdre McGettrick, founder of furniture search and discovery engine ufurnish.com and co-host of The DnA of Home Interiors podcast had to say.

Storage transformation

‘When it comes to kitchen storage, the more you have, the better. The storage you select has the power to transform the appearance of your kitchen and influence its vibe. For example, turning a homely kitchen into a professional food preparation area, or a cluttered pantry into a preparation station.’

Why not hire a professional to come and fit your kitchen? Install your perfect bespoke design today.

Organisation is key

‘Keeping your kitchen organised is a tricky task. However, there are various solutions available that will ensure your kitchen stays neat and stylish. Cabinets are a great way to maximise your floor space, and you will find options available at both floor level and overhead height. Most homeowners store their pots and pans lower down and their food higher up –  safe from pets and wandering children.’

Do you have an oddly shaped kitchen or an idea that isn’t available online or in-store? Why not consider hiring a professional to install your cabinets and shelves?

Check out our cost guide for more information.

Deirdre’s recommendations

‘If you have space, a dresser can add a sense of grandeur to a room. Regarded as both a decorative feature and practical piece of furniture, its size and volume make it ideal for storing items such as plates and cutlery.

For those who like to entertain, trolleys are another popular option for storing and even serving food and drinks (thanks to their portable nature). Furthermore, you can easily stash them away after use, which makes them a much-celebrated kitchen storage feature.

Finally, I’d also recommend a kitchen island. The beauty of these is how they provide an additional area of surface space. Often located in the centre of your kitchen and accessed from all sides, they’re a versatile piece of furniture. Options include cabinets, drawers, shelving and even built-in wine racks adorning its four edges, which is why kitchen islands are solid structures which add a lot of storage capacity. Get inspired with Checkatrade’s kitchen island ideas.’

Check out our kitchen design cost guide for more comprehensive information.

Ergonomic design solutions

Here are some top tips and tricks for making your kitchen more ergonomic.

• Utilise a kitchen island by storing containers in the cupboards and using the top as a preparation area. Better yet, install a sink or stove to free up valuable countertop space.
• Hang up your utensils with S hooks and avoid spending your life opening and closing drawers and cupboards. Mount the hook board above your stove or over your kitchen island.
• Save precious floor space by installing floor-to-ceiling kitchen cabinets and cupboards.
• Mix and match your storage solutions with floating shelves, hanging shelves and cabinets to avoid an overcrowded kitchen.
• Plan where you store your appliances, cutlery, plates, glasses, utensils and food carefully. Try to envisage breakfast stations, cooking stations, and food preparation areas, then store what you’ll need for each task close to hand. For example, keep your tea and sugar near your kettle and your bread and spreads near your toaster. Glasses work best near your sink, while lesser-used items are happy in the outer storage areas.

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