Kitchen corners are often the forgotten stepchild of design, left to gather dust or become a graveyard for rarely used appliances. But what if I told you that these very spaces hold untapped potential? We’re not just talking about sticking a lazy Susan in a cabinet (though that’s a classic for a reason!). We’re diving deep into creative, practical, and stylish ways to turn those dead zones into the heart of your kitchen. Let’s get started and unlock the secret to a more functional and beautiful kitchen. It’s easier than you think.
Let’s face it, kitchen corners are awkward. Their unusual shape makes them hard to reach, difficult to organize, and often just plain frustrating. Standard cabinets don’t always fit well, leaving gaps and wasted space. Plus, the deeper you go into a corner cabinet, the more likely things are to disappear into the abyss, never to be seen again until your next major kitchen declutter. But don’t despair. The good news is that with a little planning and some clever solutions, you can conquer those corners and turn them into assets, not liabilities. We’re going to explore some options to make your kitchen the most functional it can be.
Embrace the Lazy Susan (and Its Upgraded Cousins)
Okay, let’s start with the classic: the lazy Susan. It’s a simple concept – a rotating shelf that allows you to easily access items stored in the back of a cabinet. But today’s lazy Susans are far more sophisticated than the basic plastic models of the past. Consider multi-tiered versions, kidney-shaped designs that maximize space, and even pull-out lazy Susans that bring everything right to you.
- Example: Instead of a single-tier lazy Susan, use a two-tiered one to store spices and condiments. This maximizes vertical space and keeps everything within easy reach when you are cooking.
Don’t forget about blind corner pullouts. These are like lazy Susans on steroids, bringing the entire contents of your blind corner cabinet out into the open with a smooth, gliding motion. Talk about easy acess.
Drawers, Drawers, Everywhere: The Storage Solution Superstar
Forget doors. Drawers are where it’s at when it comes to corner cabinets. Deep drawers are perfect for storing pots and pans, while shallower drawers can hold utensils, food storage containers, or even small appliances. The key is to use drawer dividers and organizers to keep everything neat and tidy.
- Example: Install a set of deep drawers in a corner cabinet to store your pots and pans. Use pot dividers to keep them from clanging together and scratching. Add a pull-out shelf above the drawers for storing lids.
Think about angled drawers too. These can fit perfectly into corner spaces, providing easy access to items that would otherwise be lost in the back. Drawers really are a great option.
Open Shelving: Display and Functionality Combined
If you’re not a fan of closed cabinets, consider using open shelving in your kitchen corners. This is a great way to display your favorite dishes, cookbooks, or plants, while also keeping frequently used items within easy reach.
- Example: Install a set of open shelves in a corner to display your collection of vintage teacups or cookbooks. Use decorative baskets or containers to store smaller items and keep the shelves looking organized.
Just remember that open shelving requires a bit more upkeep, as items are more likely to collect dust. But the visual appeal and easy accessibility can be well worth the effort. I think this is a fab idea.
The Corner Sink: A Space-Saving Savior
A corner sink can be a brilliant solution for small kitchens, freeing up valuable counter space. Corner sinks come in a variety of styles, from single-bowl to double-bowl, and can be customized to fit your needs.
- Example: Install a corner sink with a built-in drainboard to maximize counter space. Choose a sink with a deep bowl to make washing large pots and pans easier.
Be sure to plan the plumbing carefully, as it can be more complex than with a standard sink. And consider adding a pull-out trash can or recycling bin under the sink to further maximize space. It’s a winner.
Appliance Garages: Hide the Clutter, Show Off the Style
Appliance garages are a clever way to hide small appliances like toasters, coffee makers, and blenders, keeping your countertops clutter-free. These can be built into corner cabinets or added as freestanding units.
- Example: Build an appliance garage into a corner cabinet to house your coffee maker and grinder. Add an outlet inside the garage so you can keep the appliances plugged in and ready to use.
Choose a design that complements your kitchen’s overall style. You can even add a roll-up door or a hinged door to completely conceal the appliances when they’re not in use. This is a good one for a small kitchen.
Custom Solutions: Tailoring Your Corners to Your Needs
Sometimes, the best solution is a custom one. If you have unique needs or a particularly awkward corner, consider working with a cabinet maker to create a custom storage solution. This could involve building a custom cabinet with angled shelves, a pull-out pantry, or even a built-in banquette.
- Example: Work with a cabinet maker to design a custom corner cabinet with angled shelves to store your collection of wine bottles. Add a built-in wine rack and a small countertop for preparing drinks.
While custom solutions can be more expensive than off-the-shelf options, they can also provide the most efficient and personalized use of space. Don’t be affraid to explore this option.
Kitchen corners don’t have to be a source of frustration. With a little creativity and some smart planning, you can transform those wasted spaces into functional and stylish areas that enhance your entire kitchen. Whether you choose to embrace the lazy Susan, install drawers, or opt for a custom solution, the key is to think outside the box and find a solution that meets your unique needs. So, go ahead and conquer those corners. Your kitchen – and your sanity – will thank you for it. I hope this has helped you.
