One of the most frequently requested kitchen upgrades is adding storage. It seems no one can ever have enough. But the key may not be adding more but thinking differently about where your storage should be and how you use it. Below, we will detail a concept of kitchen design that focuses on adding storage in zones near the most essential parts of your kitchen.
Refrigerator Zone
The area near the refrigerator serves as the grocery receiving zone. This is ideally located near the entrance with a countertop space big enough to support several grocery bags. A pantry nearby means you can quickly put away cold items first followed by canned and paper goods.
Sink Zone
The sink zone should be situated between the Refrigerator and Stovetop zones, ideally with some counter space on either side. Below the counter on one side should be the dishwasher which can easily be loaded up with dirty dishes from the sink. Beneath the counter on the other side is ideal for trash and composting. These countertops are likely to be used for washing, chopping, and mixing so their proximity to the sink for cleaning and the trash for disposal is key. Any drawer space immediately below the counters are best for storing knives and other small food prep tools.
Stove Zone
The stovetop zone is also best when flanked by clear countertops on either side. This allows ample space to quickly put down hot food from the oven. Drawers in this area should contain oven mitts, trivets, and other items associated with hot food. This is also the area where you get ready to serve meals that have been cooked so prepare for storing cookware, platters and other serveware nearby.
If you would like an experienced professional to help you thoughtfully plan out the storage in your kitchen, contact a Fairview Millwork and Kitchens designer today or sign up for your FREE in-home consultation online.
