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Maximising Space in Modern Kitchens Without Compromising Style

After years of designing bespoke kitchens across the UK, we’ve learned one thing: storage is not just storage. It’s about creating a space that works in harmony with your lifestyle. At Matthew James Kitchens, we know that the kitchen is no longer just a room; it’s the heart of the home, where families come together, creativity flows, and friends and family are entertained.

Our kitchens are expected to do more than ever in today’s busy world. From accommodating the latest kitchen gadgets to housing those bulk buys from the weekly shop. The challenge is to find a balance between style and space. Let’s look at our storage solutions and how we can ensure style is never compromised, and every inch of your kitchen is maximised.

The Evolution of Corner Cabinets

No longer do corner cabinets have to be dark, inaccessible voids where pots and pans go to disappear. Instead, modern designs like the LeMans corner system have transformed these once-maligned areas into practical, beautiful spaces. With their flowing curves and smooth glide, these units bring everything to the surface, so nothing is out of reach.

The magic corner system is another excellent option for those with limited space. This clever design combines two units into one, with the front and rear shelves able to pull out independently. Prices start at around £450 and go up to £800.

Modern carousel units are an excellent option for those who want to balance quality with budget. They’re no longer clunky and awkward but have soft-close drawers and adjustable shelves, making organisation a pleasure. This is an excellent example of how kitchen design is evolving to embrace every nook and cranny and to combine craftsmanship with practicality.

Drawer Organisation: The Heart of an Efficient Kitchen

We’ve learned from years of experience designing kitchens that drawers are far more practical than shelves. Deep drawer systems have become increasingly popular, and we’re seeing more of them in our designs, particularly base units.

Modern drawer systems can be customised with various inserts to suit:

  • Bespoke utensil organisers with adjustable dividers
  • Flexible plate and bowl storage
  • Pan storage with lid organisation
  • Spice drawers with tiered inserts

Drawer organisation is all about planning. We take the time to know our clients’ cooking habits and storage needs. Whether you’re a keen baker who needs space for equipment or an enthusiastic cook who needs lots of spice storage, we can create a solution for you.

Vertical Storage: Maximising Every Last Inch

Vertical space is often an underutilised resource, just waiting to be turned into a helpful asset. One of the best ways to do this is with a pull-out pantry system, especially for those period homes where every inch counts. A 300mm wide pull-out pantry, carefully crafted to meet your needs, can be a far more effective solution than a 600mm wide cupboard. If you’re looking for a space-efficient solution, this is worth considering.

Modern tall cabinet organisation systems are designed with careful consideration and include the following:

  • Pull-out mechanisms that bring your essentials to the fore
  • Adjustable shelf heights that adapt to your changing needs
  • Integrated door storage that maximises every available space
  • Dedicated zones that are designed to hold specific items

One of our favourite space-saving features is the clever use of vertical dividers. These are perfect for storing baking sheets, chopping boards and serving platters. These simple yet effective features can breathe new life into narrow, awkward spaces, turning them into highly functional storage areas that reflect the heart of your home.

Hidden Storage Features That Enhance Design

The art of storage is all about creating solutions that are as beautiful as they are functional. At Matthew James Kitchens, we know that under-counter solutions have become sophisticated, space-saving wonders that don’t compromise the kitchen’s clean lines.

Take the toe-kick drawer, for example. These low-profile drawers make the most of the space beneath your cabinets, turning what would otherwise be dead space into a convenient home for items you don’t use daily or seasonal baking equipment.

Our hidden breakfast stations are another example of innovative design. These clever features keep toasters, coffee machines and other small appliances within easy reach yet wholly hidden from view when not in use. In every aspect of our kitchens, we aim to reflect our homeowners’ unique lifestyles and needs while upholding our values of quality, service and bespoke design.

Planning Your Storage Solution

Regarding kitchen storage, the process starts with carefully assessing your specific needs. Take some time to think about:

  • What items do you use on your worktops every day?
  • How do you cook and prepare food?
  • Do you cook in batches or bake regularly?
  • What do you want to store in your cupboards?
  • What do you want to keep easily accessible, and what do you want to hide away?

As you start planning, be sure to avoid these common mistakes:

  • Failing to consider the need for adequate worktop clearance when installing pull-out units
  • Underestimating the space needed for waste solutions
  • Choosing deep corners without considering how you’ll access them
  • Not planning for future changes in your storage needs

Looking to the Future

At Matthew James Kitchens, we’re always looking to the future, continually developing our skills and expanding our product range so that our valued customers can benefit from the latest innovations whilst maintaining the quality that has always been at the heart of our business. Our dedication to excellence means we’re always looking for new ways to make the most of space, creating beautiful kitchens that work as well as they look.

Are you ready to take your kitchen storage to new heights? Please find out how our bespoke solutions can transform your home. Come and visit our showroom, or contact us to arrange a consultation. We’ll work together to create a kitchen that’s as beautiful as it is functional. Remember, great storage is not just about space; it’s about making the perfect environment for you. That’s what we do best at Matthew James Kitchens.

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