Problem-Solving Cabinets - Continued
Semi-custom cabinets permit swap-in options, like the ever
popular dovetail drawer upgrade. Full-extension, concealed
slides go traditional one better, giving full access to drawer
contents with little space lost to hardware (12).
Kitchen Tricks
Precise geometry, close tolerances, clever gadgetry, and
maximized use of space characterize the Euro style. But these
sleek units can cover the full spectrum of design, from
industrial perfection to warm and familiar (13).
A kitchen island can simultaneously establish separation and
integration of kitchen and living spaces in an open floor plan.
The curvy Sistema Es concept cabinet is no wall hugger —
it’s completely freestanding due to its self-supporting
structure (14).
Rolling cabinets serve as storage satellites at table side,
then stow away under the island or countertop (15, 16).
The drop-front sink panel has been around for a while, but
that triangular-shaped tray is not much good for storage. An
unconventional U-shaped under-sink drawer reclaims more real
estate (17). A tandem pullout drawer explores another, curvy
alternative (18).
Clever design makes use of space formerly tossed away with a
filler panel. Narrow pull-out storage makes sheet pans and
trays easy to select (19).
Multiple layers of swing-out storage may wow them in the
showroom, but users often tire of all that unfolding over time.
Tall, narrow pullout storage is practical and convenient,
typically providing full, double-sided access to stored items
in one simple motion (20).
Open plate racks and apothecary drawers add visual interest
and can reclaim a little space below wall cabinets (21).
The toespace giveth, and the toespace taketh away: You can add
a drawer where no drawer has gone before (22), while the long
legs of a furniture-style cabinet can create a void big enough
to lose your cat in. But a leggy cabinet visually allows the
floor to run to the wall and may help make a small kitchen feel
larger. A full-height, rotating shelf corner unit on splayed
steel legs makes good use of a blind corner (23).
Better Bathrooms
It’s unusual to find a homeowner who doesn’t want
maximum storage in the bathroom. So don’t just stick them
with a stand-alone vanity. Flanked by kitchen-height drawer
cabinets and capped with wall units, the vanity can become
storage central and create an elegant, custom look (24, 25).
However, you may feel as though you’ve stumbled into a
judge’s chambers.