Monday, January 25, 2010

A Custom Kitchen : Cabinet Storage

A combination of technology, creativity and demand has led to the evolution of some exceptionally innovative products for your kitchen. I want to write a short series on where these developments have taken us, starting with kitchen cabinet storage. Like most things, while aesthetic appeal is nice, it really is the inside that counts; and I think that regarding kitchen storage, organization and accessibility are the key elements that make cabinetry truly functional and pleasing. Companies like Rev-A-Shelf and Hafele carry some clever accessories to organize, tuck away, and keep everything in it's place.

These wonderful spice trays, by Rev-A-Shelf, effortlessly stack your seasonings, keeping them fully visible and accessible. Because the material is trim-able, this tray can be fitted precisely to any drawer.

A bread drawer kit (this one also by Rev-A-Shelf) will help keep bread tasting fresh.

If you need to make the most of your vertical space, check out these two-tier trays (another Rev-A-Shelf item). You might store utensils used less often in the bottom, while the top tier glides on wheels, allowing all items stored to remain at least partially visible and easy to get out. This is also trim-able for an exact fit.

This simple peg system (Rev-A-Shelf) allows items stacked high within drawers to stay in place, avoiding sliding and breaking.

Aren't those deep, dark corners of your lower cabinets the worst? The lazy susan is a common remedy for that problem, but I just love Hafele's LeMan's system. It's pivot and shape pulls everything out allowing full accessibility.

I will almost always recommend drawers over doors for your base cabinets. But in some cases, like under a sink, doors might make more sense. This doesn't mean you have to sacrifice storage. With this handy pull out by Hafele, cleaning products stay organized, visible and within reach.

These pantry pull-outs, by Hafele, are so practical. Just think of all the snacks that go to waste because they were shoved to the back of the pantry only to be recovered after expiration. Or how about that same hot-sauce you've bought 3 times because you thought you were out :). This system will not let food or storage go to waste.

This is only the tip of the ice-berg for kitchen organization, and there are similar products for bathroom, laundry, and garage management. Just imagine the possibilities! If you are interested in remodeling a room in your home, check us out at thekitchenandbathpeople.com for more information.