Every kitchen is different depending on the space that you have to work with and your budget. I have listed ten of my favorite things to put into kitchens.
2 bin recycle center -Most communities have recycling programs so the two bins allow for recycle and garbage. Having the cans inside a cabinet keeps the walkway clear. The recycle centers come in different sizes the large 50 litre cans only require a 16 ½” wide space for two cans. I also like the holder to be attached to the door allowing for easier operation.
Tray Dividers– Tray dividers are simple inserts that can be used in cabinets to allow storage without stacking. They are installed vertically in your cabinets. I like to use them in a base cabinet or above your fridge. They are great for the storage of trays , cookie sheets, muffin tins, cutting boards etc.
Drawers……Drawer….Drawers Need I say more? No one have ever come back to me and said that they wished that their kitchen had less drawers. Pot and pan drawers are especially nice to have.
Some Glass Doors – Glass changes the textures and adds lightness to a kitchen It also allows you to display some of your favorite things.. Note an Obscure Glass door can add a beautiful touch to a bathroom sink cabinet.
Spice Pull-out– This little work horse can pack a lot of storage in a small space. I especially like them close to the range or cook top.
Island– An island is a large work surface, buffet, homework center etc. It often includes seating for stools and can have a raised area. Some have sinks and dishwasher. I really like have at least a 48” wide open surface to work on.
OTR and 15” deep cabinets over the range. An OTR is an Over the Range Microwave Hood Fan. The OTR is really nice in a small kitchen because it uses one space for two tasks. Most Cabinet companies and appliance stores them installed in displays. Try them out to see if you are comfortable taking out hot food over your range. 15” deep cabinets are nice above the range because the extra depth allow for better storage in the cabinet even when there is a vent going through. They add dimension / depth to the wall sometimes the 15” deep cabinets can be raised as well.
Raise some cabinets– Raised or staggered cabinets are often used in more traditional cabinets. It is decorative and adds dimension and height to your kitchen. Crown moulding is a big part of this look. This depends on the layout of your kitchen and the height of your wall. This is usually done using 30” high and 36” high uppers with a 8ft ceiling or 36” high and 42” high with a 9ft ceiling. We usually raise the cabinets in odd numbers. Note when you raise a cabinet you also need to make it deeper to allow for the return of the crown moulding.
Pantry– Not all kitchens have enough room for a pantry but if you do then it is wonderful. If you have room for a 24” deep pantry then roll-outs are a real asset to have. I always suggest 4 or 5 roll-outs. If you do not have room for a 24” deep pantry, a 12” deep pantry gives you a amazing amount of storage and then you don’t need roll-outs.
Extra shelves– Add some extra shelves and you can maximize your storage space and make accessing your item easier with less stacking.
There are many new and exciting accessories for kitchens that I have not covered in my top ten favorites. You can see the listed ten and more in our Showrooms.