In addition to a introduction to kitchen organization, I will provide tips and guidance on kitchen storage, which is somewhat dependent on the shape and layout of the kitchen. The four classic kitchen arrangements are the U-shape, the kitchen, the L-shape, and the island. The U shape has a work surface on three sides, the kitchen has a counter along one or both long sides of a rectangle. The L shape is exactly that; on two sides at right angles to each other. An island configuration is a variation on the L shape, with a work surface block with storage below.
To make the kitchen safer and more efficient to work in, there are certain guidelines. One is to have a flat, heat-resistant surface immediately to at least one side of the oven and the hob, so you don’t have to walk anywhere with something that’s boiling hot. Another is that cupboard doors don’t open to a step, where people walk to get to the table or door. Yet another is to have the dishwasher right next to the sink and not create a blockage when the door is opened.
Some people disagree about whether dishes, cutlery, and glasses should be stored near the dishwasher or near the table where it is used. The latter arrangement makes setting the table quicker and easier, but the former makes emptying the dishwasher less tedious. This is clearly a matter of personal preference.
Planning the kitchen from scratch means first drawing it on paper. If you have time, make cutout shapes that represent appliances like the refrigerator, as well as furniture. Feel free to move the cutouts around the tight space until you’re satisfied.
Mass-produced kitchen cabinets are basically regular-sized boxes that allow you to arrange doors and work surfaces. The height of a base unit is typically 36″ with a depth of 24″. The widths tend to be more varied. There are also corner units, and some ranges have special pieces such as trays, wine racks, etc. These are built for people of average height.
Standard units can be lifted on a custom-made plinth, so there’s no need to bend over for those who are taller than average. Place drawers in the plinth for more storage space. Your work surface can also be made deeper than usual from back to front. This is a clever ruse to give more counter area if space is limited. Have your kitchen custom built by a specialist company or a local or ‘DIY’ carpenter. Taller and deeper units will provide plenty of under-counter storage.
