Bulky heavy appliances are best suited for a shelf in a storage closet, or in a lower cabinet with depth. Invest in organization solutions for problem items. Lids are one of the most annoying kitchen items to organize. They don't stack neatly, they're bulky, and they can easily become unwieldy.
Plates, glasses and other dinnerware are most often stored near the dishwasher. Spices should be stored near a prep area, but not too close to the stove or oven as heat can destroy their flavor.
Typically, there are three main zones of storage in every kitchen. The main areas of storage are: the refrigerator, the sink, and the range. The refrigerator is arguably the most used appliance in the entire kitchen.
These zones include preparation, cleaning, cooking, consumables and non-consumables. TV presenter Allison Langdon recently enlisted the help of Kinsman Kitchens to create her dream family kitchen.
Perhaps one of the most practical design solutions is placing a microwave above a wall oven in a tall cabinet. It works visually because cooking appliances are kept together. Aesthetically, that maintains consistent look. Positioning the microwave above a wall oven will also have your microwave at the perfect height.
Never Place a Microwave Too Close to the Window
In case of a fire, this appliance may be the difference between danger and safety at an exit,” says IKD designer Albert. Microwaves do require proper ventilation but putting it in front of the window is not the answer.
A microwave oven, designed exclusively for a kitchen countertop, has vents that are built into the back of the microwave. If installed into a cabinet, these vents will be blocked and unable to release steam from the microwave. Talk about a fire hazard for your kitchen.
Whether your tipple is tea, G&T or a chilled glass of wine, set up your appliances to create a refreshment station in one corner of your kitchen to be able to make all drinks in one place. Place your kettle on the worktop, directly next to the fridge so your milk is to hand for a quick brew.
There are six basic types of kitchen layouts: Island, Parallel, Straight, L-Shape, U-Shape, Open, and Galley. The L-Shaped kitchen is most suited to homes that do not need too much worktop spaces while the galley shaped kitchen is suitable for small homes.
According to the kitchen triangle rule, each side of the triangle should measure no less than four feet and no more than nine feet and, ideally, the perimeter of the triangle should be no less than 13 feet and no more than 26 feet.
A countertop next to or across from your refrigerator is the ideal spot for setting down grocery bags. This position allows immediate transfer of cold items to the fridge and freezer, and storage of staples, canned goods, condiments, cereal boxes and other dry food items in nearby cabinets or a nearby pantry.
A pantry is a room that stores beverages, food, and occasionally dishes, household cleaning chemicals, linens, or provisions. Food and beverage pantries supplement the kitchen's functions. A pantry is typically a room or closet located in the kitchen or a separate area of the house.
There are several basic kitchen layout types—one-wall, galley, L-shaped, U-shaped, island, and peninsula—and a few common variations seen in larger homes.
The L-Shape
“The L-shaped best allows for kitchen usability and best accommodates the kitchen triangle rule. You can place an additional kitchen sink on the island, allowing for more practical use of the space, or add storage underneath the island and space for seating on the other side.”
An L shape is one of the most common layouts for kitchens. It requires less space and offers more flexibility in the placement of workstations. This plan works well when the kitchen adjoins a casual room, like a family room or eating area.
Cupboards may be a better storage option for some, but for storage below the waist and a more contemporary design, drawers are a great choice for homeowners. Not sure which is right for your kitchen design project?
What is a G shaped kitchen? As the name suggests, a G-shaped kitchen resembles the letter 'G', featuring four sides of kitchen counter space. It's similar to the U-shaped kitchen - which has three sides - but with an additional fourth dimension, such as a jut or peninsula that adds extra workspace or dining space.
If you're renovating, it's likely you're stuck with the layout – as is. The most suitable layouts for large kitchens include the U-Shape and Island Layout, G-Shaped Layout and L-Shape and Island Layout. Any of these are perfectly suited to big spaces to accommodate large groups of family or friends.
Keep your toaster on a cutting board.
Your toaster belongs on a cutting board. Here's why: When you use your toaster, you want it to be out from underneath your cabinets (because, heat and steam!), but you also want to be able to tuck it back away when you're finished with it.
You should store them where you use them. Three rules of thumb are to put frequently used appliances on the countertop or the lowest shelf of an upper cabinet for easy reach; rarely used appliances should go to the top of the cabinets; and never-used items should be sold or donated.