6 design secrets for your next kitchen project

Whether it’s appliance advice or tap tips, we’ve racked our brains and put together six design secrets you can put to use in your next kitchen project.

Install a two-tiered cutlery drawer

Starting off nice and easy, a cutlery drawer with a second layer can make finding utensils that much easier. You can use the extra space for extra cutlery sets or commonly used cooking implements.

Choose ceiling-high cabinets

This is an especially useful tip for small kitchens. By installing cabinets that run up to the ceiling, your eyes are naturally drawn upward. The result? The kitchen will feel much larger than it actually is. The bonus is that you also get more space to store things that you don’t use often!

Install a pullout pantry

Pullout pantries are far easier to work compared to traditional cupboards. Instead of having to dig around in tight shelves, you can simply pull out everything in front of you.

If your pantry is wider than around 40 centimetres, however, install roll out shelves. A pullout pantry over 40 centimetres wide will just be too heavy to manage – especially if you’ve filled the shelves with cans.

Don’t reuse appliances

Reusing appliances for a kitchen renovation may seem like a good idea. After all, you’re saving money right? It’s actually a bad idea. Nothing is going to stick out more among your new cabinets than an old fridge, oven or dishwasher.

Changing out your appliances is also a chance to purchase new, more efficient alternatives.

Install under-cabinet lights

Yes, those fancy new pendant lights are a must-have, but consider lighting under your wall cabinets too. You’ll spend most of your time in the kitchen working on a countertop, so the last thing you want to see is your shadow over what you’re working on. LEDs placed under wall cabinets perfectly illuminate the work surface.

Plan for (recycling) bins

One of the easiest things to forget with a kitchen project is the rubbish bin. Instead of buying a bin to sit on the floor, install a cabinet bin in a drawer. The benefit of a such a system is that you can also pop a recycling bin in there.

Kitchen projects can be stressful, so view some of our other articles if you’re still feeling a little lost. If you want to get started with a new kitchen, read the ‘Getting started’ guide.

Story by: Trends