Smart Kitchen Design Tips
March 5, 2009 – 4:22 pmKitchen organization is one thing all cooks need to master. But what’s the best way to organize your space? Not only do you need easy access to utensils, cookware sets and ingredients, but you also want your kitchen to look and feel good as a warm living space. While some might argue that our day-to-day lives are too compartmentalized as it is, compartmentalizing your kitchen is a necessity if you want to enjoy the time you spend there and maximize productivity. Here are some tips to help you organize your kitchen in a stress-free, aesthetically pleasing way.
Storage Drawers & Utensil Crocks
I’ve lived with and worked in some extremely small kitchens in my time, often with very few drawers. This made utensil storage somewhat problematic. In one kitchen, with only two drawers to work with, I had no choice but to put my flatware in one drawer and all of my utensils in the second drawer. Sure, I got a utensil divider for my forks, spoons, knives, etc. but I had nothing for my other utensils. Now that I have a great deal more storage space in my kitchen, I’m exploring other utensil storage options. Here are some of my favorites.
- Utensil Crocks/Caddies: Available in ceramic, stainless steel, wood and other materials, utensil crocks are a great way to keep all of those important kitchen tools at your fingertips. Available in many different sizes and colors, get 2 or 3 in colors that complement your kitchen decor and you free up your drawer space considerably for some of those non-essential utensils.
- Utensil Racks: Similar in concept to a hanging pot rack, utensil racks are easily installed on your wall and are perfect for hanging some of your big metal serving spoons, spatulas or measuring cups.
Cutlery Storage:
I don’t know about you, but I actually don’t feel a kitchen is complete without a nice-looking knife block sitting on the countertop. If you don’t purchase a cutlery set that includes a knife block, you can purchase one separately. Check out the manufacturer’s website for the knife set you purchase to see if they make their own, as most knife blocks are made to custom fit a particular series of knives. Another option that I highly recommend is a magnetic knife strip. These can be affixed to any wall or cabinet and feature a long magnet which keeps your knives within reach while you’re preparing your meal. While I wouldn’t advise using these in a house with kids running around, they are another space-saving idea to consider for a small kitchen, where counter space is a rare commodity. And they look… sharp.
Spice Racks:
I cannot stress enough the importance of having a good spice rack or two. My favorite type of spice rack is the carousel model that spins around. Alphabetize your spices and spin till you find what you are looking for. Wall mounted spice racks are fine too, as long as you don’t mind the relatively simple installation process.
Pot Racks:
Pot racks are underrated, if you ask me. Available in both a wall-mounted variety as well as the more traditional hanging style, pot racks are a great tool to help you keep your most frequently used pots and pans within reaching distance. Some models also include a storage shelf, giving you even more storage space for your money. Hanging pot racks are perfect for a kitchen with an island, while wall-mounted pot racks are great for a smaller space or a kitchen without an island.
Kitchen Carts/Portable Islands:
While not an essential accessory for every kitchen, portable kitchen carts are great if you’re looking for some really versatile storage space. You can use your kitchen cart as a microwave cart, extra storage for pots and pans or even as a small kitchen table. Some styles include closeable cabinetry, while others feature open shelving good for cookbooks, spices or other ingredients. Some specialty carts even have built in wine racks or space for a trash container.
An organized kitchen is a necessity for any cook or foodie who spends countless hours slaving away over a hot stove. By taking the time to eliminate excess kitchen clutter, your time spent in the kitchen will be infinitely more rewarding and enjoyable.
