When it comes to planning the kitchen it’s so important to think about the space you have available and how to maximise it. You don’t want to waste space, especially in a smaller kitchen where you really can’t afford to. In L-shape or U-shape layouts, a lot of the time the corner is wasted where the lengths of cabinets connect. The rear cupboard space can become difficult to access without stretching or straining and it isn’t always easy to find things you need if there are lots of contents.
This awkward space is too often, and too easily unused and neglected, so here at PF, we would like to talk you through the different innovative kitchen corner solutions that are available to you in your handmade bespoke kitchen.
Le Mans
The Le Mans corner storage solution is named after France’s famous racetrack due to its shape. It features two large trays one above the other which allows you to reach deep into the recess of the kitchen corner’s cupboard space. Each tray is independent, where each one extends outwards in a swift, smooth motion to present its full contents and make them easily accessible for a handmade kitchen.
There is a load-bearing maximum capacity of 25kg per shelf, making them ideal for storing pots, pans and other heavy kitchenware. They can be opened to the left or right and depending on space and requirement, the height-adjustable shelves can be adjusted.
Carousel
A more traditional kitchen corner solution to some of the other ones is the carousel, often referred to as a Lazy Susan. This type of integrated system sits within a corner kitchen base with 2 rotating shelves, one above the other – both the height and depth of the internal cupboard space can be maximised.
They are ideal for tall corner units and best suited for cupboards with double doors and can even be designed in a full circular shape, a pie-shaped cut-out to fit the doors or semi-circular shelves attached to the door.
Wall, Base & Full-Height Corner Units
Wall, base and full-height corner units are ideal for maximising kitchen corner space because of their versatility. They are available in a range of heights with many customisable options where tins, bottles, dry goods and anything tall that might not fit somewhere else. Carousels can be found in this storage solution or a swing-out larder filled with baskets that are fixed to the inner door or separate trays that pull out independently.
Typically 5 or 6 adjustable shelves or boxes are found in full-height corner units.
Corner Pantry
The kitchen space in modern times now features a larder/pantry (which is the same thing), and they seem to be on many kitchen wishlists and are a huge topic when focusing on the kitchen. There was a separate pantry to a larder many years ago and they have differed over the years.
- Pantry -originally used for storing goods such as bread and butter
- Larder – storing food best kept at lower temperatures
Keep the pantry free-standing style alive, by adding modern technology, you could even opt for a mini walk-in pantry if you have the space – this is a great option for maximising corner space.
Pantries are a versatile storage solution making them a great feature within your kitchen too. The doors are down to your preference but they can open wide to fully display the contents and allow easy access. Add an assortment of shelves, baskets and drawers to fully optimise the space and meet your needs. You could even add a spice rack on the inner side of the door.
Open Kitchen Corner Shelves
Open shelves are simple yet striking and make effective use of corner spaces. This type of design is particularly good in smaller kitchens where wall units might make the space feel enclosed; instead, open shelving creates a feeling of airiness.
What makes these a stunning piece to add to the kitchen design is that they are highly decorative, where you can convey your personality, and add special memories all whilst making it look beautiful.
Top Tip – open shelving is a much less expensive choice than installing wall-fitted furniture.
Tambour Unit
Tambour units or roller shutters are another hidden kitchen corner storage solution that’s great for tidying the worktops and keeping everything clear. The door slides up and down to open and close and is available in a range of colours, including the colour of your kitchen cabinets to match.
You will find generous shelving within, a place to store kettles and toasters and plug sockets can be built into the cabinet.
Book an appointment at our showroom and speak with one of our talented and knowledgeable kitchen designers to design and plan a luxury kitchen that is filled with bespoke storage solutions that suit you and your family’s needs. Contact us today.
Originally written 22/03/23 updated 14/11/24
