| Crowded kitchen space is the modern day homemaker's malady. A foolproof menu plan is useless if you haven't
the workspace to prepare it, and all that careful shopping is for naught if there is no room in the pantry to store and
organize the groceries. So while scoffers may laugh at the suggestion, careful consumers will place their focus on
organizing the kitchen well. These kitchen organization basics should help you to get started. |
Catskill Craftsmen Grand Americana Kitchen Island |
Maximize your space and minimize hassle by focusing on a few key aspects of your kitchen. The three main areas of concern
are surface space, storage areas and eating room. Here are easy and affordable kitchen organization basics that you can tailor
to your specific needs to create more usable space.
Kitchen Organization Basics for Your Surface Areas
Perhaps the biggest hurdle to overcome in a disorganized kitchen is poorly positioned workspace. If your counter space is
insufficient, as many homeowners find that it is, seek alternatives. Use
mobile kitchen carts for large appliances that would otherwise take up your workspace.
Place these useful carts in corners, next to a table, or against a wall if possible. This will allow you to maximize its usage
without wasting space. Islands also create extra surfaces. Islands have additional
benefits including wide working surfaces, additional cabinet space, and, more often than not, enhanced aesthetics in the kitchen.
Creating More Storage Room
In terms of kitchen organization basics, everyone agrees that cabinets are essential to running an organized kitchen. Place a row of
overhead cabinets above an island or counter for regularly used items. This is the place to store pots, dishes or utensils that you
want to keep close at hand. Heavier and larger items should be delegated to lower cabinets to eliminate precarious balancing acts.
Of course, if something is extremely heavy, it may warrant its own counter or cart top space. For additional storage room, consider a
freestanding storage cabinet. Made from beautiful materials, such as oak,
and often adorned with designs, storage cabinets are decorative as well as practical. These cupboards can be pressed flat against any
wall and are thin and discreet enough to fit anywhere in the kitchen.
Catskill Craftsmen Storage Cabinet |
Positioning the Eating Area
The kitchen table can serve two purposes as an eating area and a work surface.
Consider the use before deciding on a location. Some prefer the table to be the first thing they see when they walk into the kitchen.
This is an easy surface to place packages when first arriving home, and a good area for socializing with the chef. If this is going to
be a work surface where you can prepare food or the kids can do homework, then you'll want the table close at hand, as well. |
If the table will be strictly for eating purposes, consider creating an eating corner for these meals. Bars and stools are also an
excellent idea for space-efficiency. If room is really sparse, consider a
folding butcher's block table. Open for a
quick meal, and tuck away when not in use.
Smaller items like lazy susans, drawer and closet organizers and
spice racks are also essential components to create an organized
kitchen. Never underestimate the power of position, even with these additions. Remember that implementing a few important features in
the kitchen is integral to maintaining an organized and efficient kitchen. Whether you have a tiny kitchen or a huge one, these
kitchen organization basics can help you to create workable space and a practical layout. Use these tips and suggestions and
enjoy your kitchen space more.
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