Choosing Kitchen Cabinets for Efficiency and Space
Kitchen cabinets are essential for storage and space. If you are in the process of a kitchen remodeling project, there are some things you’ll need to consider, such as how many cabinets you’ll need, installing drawers on the lower levels, and how much can you store in your current space.
Start planning your kitchen space before doing any work. Think about each cabinet and what purpose each serves, especially based on its proximity to certain appliances. If you are installing new appliances, you’ll need to figure out their location, then plan what the cabinets near them will hold. For example, items you use often should be placed in cabinets near preparation or cooking areas.
You’ll likely use a combination of cabinets and drawers for storage. Wide, deep drawers are easier to use and reach than cabinets and make good use of space and depth. You’re less likely to have to reach up, bend down, or dig to get what you want. However, if you have a lot of appliances or nice cookware and you have a spacious kitchen, you may wish to have large cabinets to store these, especially if they are items you do not use often. If you have a smaller kitchen, a cabinet might make more sense. Smaller, narrow drawers can be used to keep nice flatware or table linens. Wall cabinets that extend from floor to ceiling maximize storage space.
In terms of materials, cabinets made of plywood are preferable over particle board or melamine, which is particle board that is coated. Plywood has good longevity and durability. For finishes, cherry wood, mahogany, and bamboo are popular, with more natural and textured looks winning out over glazed cabinet treatments.
If cabinets are part of your kitchen remodeling plan, consider the floor plan and size of your kitchen and experiment with layouts and looks. Cabinets provide needed kitchen storage space as well as define the look of your kitchen.