Saving space in the kitchen

Kitchens come in all shapes and sizes and they serve as more than simply a space to prepare meals. Modern kitchens are the heartbeat of the home. They’re accustomed to accommodating crowds.

They can also include work stations, desks and dining areas. Keeping a kitchen free of clutter isn’t always easy, especially when the space is tasked with performing a variety of functions.

Thankfully, architect Jennifer Mastro of Brentwood’s SDG Architects, Inc. has some thoughts on maintaining order in the kitchen.

For large kitchens, consider investing in an island. This enables you and whomever you are cooking with to have separate workstations. Islands also provide alternative space for storage because you’ll have more drawers and room for countertop appliances.

Install hooks in cupboards. These are great for hanging mugs and freeing up storage space. Hang a pot rack from the ceiling. A securely mounted rack for pots provides a way to store cookware outside of traditional cabinetry. Use a coffee cart. These fashionable accessories can be placed on the counter and can arrange your coffee and accoutrements so they’re ready for use each morning.

Use dividers and risers. Adding dividers and risers to drawers helps create order among the clutter. They can also be used in cupboards to maximize the available storage space.

Invest in a cutting board that fits over your sink. A longer cutting board gives you more space to work with, which can be especially handy when preparing large meals.

Install a glass rack for stemware beneath the cupboards. Simple racks can be found in home decor stores and provide an elegant alternative to crowded cupboards.

Organize the refrigerator. Using storage compartments can bring order to a messy refrigerator. Look for trays, baskets and containers that can easily store items taking up valuable space in the refrigerator. Mount a magnetic knife bar. Instead of taking up valuable counter space with a knife block, hang cutlery from a magnetic strip mounted to the wall. Use a lazy Susan. Put a lazy Susan in your spice cabinet to put a plethora of ingredients within arm’s reach.

Clear the clutter. Try to keep countertop appliances out of sight when not in use. Give them a home in your pantry or kitchen cabinetry to keep your countertop clear.

39 Pixels Photography Stone counters, pendant lights and Shaker cabinetry finish a chef’s kitchen accented by a distinctive backsplash.