Kitchens have a sonic-level tendency to get cluttered. Unused pots and pans, Tupperware with lost lids, unwanted gadgets (think banana slicers), and a whole lot of spices hiding in the back of your pantry. No matter how much storage space you have, it never seems to be enough!
Worse? It steals the aesthetic vibe of your kitchen and limits movement.
So, if you’re feeling crunched for space in your kitchen, it’s time to make a few changes. No, we don’t mean an all-out room extension. Considering Marysville’s 120.1% higher national average cost of living, that’s out of the picture.
So, how do you make your cookland functional and stylish without breaking the bank? Let’s check out.
Ruthless Decluttering
Before you can add new functional elements to your kitchen, get rid of the clutter. It’ll help create some room. Empty the cabinets and sort things into three categories:
- Keep For Sure – These can be the items you use daily, like your saucepan, mixing bowls, and the like.
- Err, Maybe – These are the items you use occasionally. For example, your baking dishes.
- Nope – These are items you never use or don’t need. Corn holders? This is the category for them.
Once sorted, donate the “nope” and store “err maybe” at the back of the cabinets. When was the last time you used that tortilla press anyway?
If you want to change your dated kitchen furniture to something more chic, remove that, too. Don’t want to give it away yet? In that case, rent a Marysville WA storage unit to give it a temporary home.
Tips for a Functional Kitchen
Say Yes to Vertical Storage!
Thinking horizontally? Think again. The key to a functional kitchen is “floor-to-ceiling” shelving. It helps maximize space and adds an architectural flair.
Here are a few ideas that’ll never disappoint:
- Create a pegboard wall with hooks and pegs to hang utensils. You can even color the pegboard to match your kitchen’s color palette.
- Install magnetic knife strips on the wall to keep knives and metal kitchen tools accessible and off the counter.
- Attach spice racks to the inside of cabinet doors to keep your spice jars organized. Some people prefer stocking them in the first drawer under the countertop.
There’s a lot more you can do. Analyze your needs and decide accordingly.
Don’t Forget About Under Cabinet Space
Most of us forget about the space under our cabinets, but it’s an ideal storage spot. It frees up counter space so you can slice and dice vegetables, marinate meats, and do all the things you love with ease.
One popular trick is to install S-hooks on a sturdy rail to hang coffee mugs, pans, and pots. Alternatively, use a tension rod to hang cleaning items like sponges, dish towels, and gloves.
Utilize Awkward Spaces
Do you have dead corners in your kitchen? Instead of letting them waste away, add functional elements to them. An L-shaped rotating spice rack or a carousel for kitchen essentials is worth a shot.
You can also add shelves to the awkward space above your refrigerator or stove. You can use it to store cookbooks, extra serving dishes, and small appliances.
The Pantry Station
Are you tired of crawling into your pantry to reach that can of beans? Or climbing on a stool to get hold of your pasta? A pantry station is an innovative solution to these problems. Simply create sections in your pantry for different categories like canned goods, boxed items, and baking essentials.
If you’re short on pantry space, consider using vertical storage solutions like stackable shelves or a hanging fruit basket.
Tips for a Stylish Kitchen
Go Glass!
Ditch the plastic jars and containers for glass ones. They make your kitchen look more organized and are an eco-friendly option. You can even use them for storing pantry items, spices, and snacks on open shelves. You can also get the jars with attached spoons. Trust us; they are lifesavers. To add a modern touch, print and paste labels.
Add Fun Colors
One easy way to add style to your kitchen is through pops of color. Try adding brightly colored tea towels or dishcloths, a set of colorful mixing bowls, or even a couple of patterned stools. If you want to try a bigger DIY project, paint your cabinets or add a colorful backsplash. Stick to a color scheme to make it look pleasing.
Play With Patterns
Don’t be afraid to play with patterns in your kitchen. Mix and match plates, bowls, and glasses with funky patterns, textures, and colors to create an eclectic look. You can also add patterned wallpaper or tile to your backsplash for an instant upgrade.
Greenery is Key
Adding some plants to your kitchen not only adds style but also has numerous benefits. Plants purify the air, lower stress levels, and add a pop of color. You can even grow your own herbs in small pots on the windowsill.
The Magic of Kitchen Storage: Final Word
A functional and stylish kitchen is no longer a dream. With these creative storage solutions, you can make the most out of your space without compromising on style. So, start decluttering and implementing these ideas to transform your cookland into a functional yet chic space.
Read Also: Exploring Culinary Creativity: Delta-8 Gummies in Recipes
Oh, and always strive to add a touch of personalization to your space to make it truly yours. Happy organizing!
