People with large kitchens have the advantage of having more space to store their many appliances. Here are some common storage options and strategies for organizing and storing appliances in large kitchens:
Cabinets and Pantries: Large kitchens often feature ample cabinet and pantry space, providing convenient storage for appliances. Cabinets with adjustable shelves or pull-out drawers can be customized to accommodate appliances of various sizes. Pantries with deep shelves or dedicated appliance storage areas can also be utilized to keep appliances neatly organized and easily accessible.
Appliance Garages: Appliance garages are specialized cabinets or countertop compartments designed to house frequently used appliances. These spaces typically have doors or retractable panels that can be opened and closed to conceal or reveal the appliances. Appliance garages are particularly useful for storing small appliances like toasters, blenders, or coffee makers that are used regularly but may clutter the countertop.
Dedicated Appliance Centers: In large kitchens, it's not uncommon to have dedicated areas or centers designed specifically for appliances. This could include a baking station with a built-in oven, mixer, and other baking tools, or a coffee station with a built-in espresso machine, grinder, and storage for coffee accessories. These purpose-built areas keep appliances organized and create functional workstations within the kitchen.
Kitchen Islands: Kitchen islands are versatile features that can provide additional storage for appliances. Islands with built-in cabinets, drawers, or shelves can accommodate appliances like microwave ovens, wine coolers, or specialized cooking equipment. Incorporating electrical outlets into the island allows for easy use of small appliances while keeping the countertop free from clutter.
Open Shelving or Display Cabinets: For those who want to showcase their appliances or have easy access to frequently used items, open shelving or glass display cabinets can be utilized. This allows appliances to be stored in plain sight while maintaining an organized and visually appealing arrangement.
Wall-Mounted Racks or Pegboards: Wall-mounted racks or pegboards can be used to hang and store smaller appliances or kitchen utensils. This option helps free up cabinet and countertop space while keeping appliances within reach and easily visible.
Appliance Lifts or Pull-Out Shelves: In large kitchens with tall cabinets or deep pantry spaces, appliance lifts or pull-out shelves can be installed. These mechanisms allow heavy appliances like stand mixers or food processors to be stored at lower levels and easily accessed when needed. The lifts or shelves can be raised or pulled out to bring the appliance to a more comfortable working height.
When organizing appliances in a large kitchen, it's helpful to categorize them based on frequency of use. Keep frequently used appliances easily accessible, while those used less frequently can be stored in less accessible areas. Consider the size, weight, and shape of each appliance when deciding on the most suitable storage solution. Additionally, using labels, dividers, or clear containers can aid in maintaining an organized and efficient storage system.