Cabinet Ideas for Every Room

Innovative solutions for small spaces

It´s a common challenge in many kitchens: how do you make a small space seem larger? At first, you might imagine removing a wall or two, adding cabinets and countertops, and soon having the perfect kitchen with all the storage and elbowroom you need. Unfortunately, like many people, you may find that space, construction, and budget limitations make it impossible to expand your kitchen beyond its current dimensions.

Wait! There´s hope! "You still have ways to maximize the space available and maintain a comfortable, welcoming environment," says Merillat's New Product Design Manager. Use these tips to help open up your kitchen or make better use of other small rooms in your home.

1. Use lighter colors. Deep, dark colored cabinets can be beautiful, but they can make small spaces look smaller. Instead, opt for lighter, natural tones like maple. Maple is ideal for cabinets in small kitchens, as are whitewashed woods and solid whites. Also choose light-colored flooring and countertops.

2. Maximize storage possibilities. Select cabinets with Roll-out Trays for easier access to items stored in the back of the cabinet. Consider including one tall Utility Cabinet with multiple Roll-out Trays or a Pantry Cabinet (shown at right) with pull-out racks. You can also stack wall cabinets right on top of the counter. "You may want to use these tall cabinets sparingly, because they can overpower the room visually," our Design Manager cautions. Also, remember this technique forces you to trade counter space for storage space.

3. Use space-saving devices. A Microwave Oven Shelf frees up counter space. Consider pull-down items like a Message Center, Cookbook Rack or Knife Rack. Undercabinet devices like these free up drawer and counter space while keeping utensils conveniently concealed, helping you avoid a cluttered look. A Wire Backsplash System (shown at right) can also keep often-used cooking utensils, oils or spices handy while cooking or preparing food.

4. Include some open storage space. Open shelves and plate racks create the illusion of increased depth and add visual interest. It can help make frequently used items easier to access and put away. Open shelving is also relatively easy to incorporate into odd-sized nooks and crannies. Choose Mullion Glass Doors for some of your cabinets to add depth as well.

5. Let in the light. Natural light makes a room seem more spacious, so investigate possibilities foradding a window or skylight. If your kitchen has a window but an unsavory view, consider a glass-block window to let in the light.

6. Use artificial lighting effectively. Ambient, accent and task lighting are important to room design. Undercabinet lighting and lighting inside glass cabinets highlights the depth of a room. In addition, the type and placement of the lighting you choose can dramatically improve the feel of the room.

7. Use accents strategically. An eye-catching color used sparingly, behind a shelf or on the backsplash, can draw the eye and suggest added depth. Moldings and trim can also add dimension and give your kitchen elegance. Keep in mind that in small spaces, accents should be used sparingly to keep the area looking neat.

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