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A well-organised kitchen makes everyday life easier and ensures you have more bench space for food preparation and entertaining.
The Bunnings Workshop community has shared many clever storage solutions to help transform cluttered kitchens into more functional and stylish spaces. Here are eight smart ways to improve your kitchen storage.
1. Make use of narrow or unused space
Even the tightest corners or awkward gaps can become useful with a bit of creativity. Workshop member @DIYology added a custom wine rack while @DIYology turned a narrow gap between the fridge and wall into a pull-out slimline spice rack, keeping a large selection of jars within easy reach but out of sight. You can build your own by following the step-by-step guide How to build a slimline spice rack.
2. Convert unused space into a walk-in pantry
You don’t need a big footprint to add pantry space. Community member @Renowayoflife created a D.I.Y. walk-in pantry for under $1000 using VJ panels and floating shelves. Other members have carved out pantry areas in under-utilised corners or even beneath staircases, like @kennyrussell with their butler’s pantry project.
3. Add open shelving
Open shelving is on-trend, practical and easy to add. Member @EleventhCoastal built a coffee station using Flexi Storage floating shelves, turning a bare wall into a purposeful and decorative nook.
4. Change cupboards into drawers
Traditional cupboards can become a black hole for pots, pans and long-forgotten containers. Swapping out cabinets for deep drawers like @pete_brig helps make every item more accessible and can increase storage space.
5. Use vertical storage for trays
Traditional drawers can be frustrating for storing items like baking trays and chopping boards. Instead, consider vertical dividers inside a cabinet, as demonstrated by @JustJim. This method makes it easy to grab what you need and is an efficient use of space.
6. Add freestanding islands or trolleys
Extra bench space is always welcome in a busy kitchen, and freestanding islands or carts can offer more preparation area and storage. Community member @Karlster69 repurposed a tool trolley into a mobile kitchen island with a hardwood benchtop.
7. Incorporate recycled or custom timber shelves
Try building shelves from reclaimed timber to add some rustic charm, character or warmth to your kitchen. Experienced Workshop member @prettyliving created recycled timber shelves with a black-wash finish, adding style and functionality.
8. Think outside the cabinet
Organisation doesn’t always require adding more cabinetry. Options like wall hooks, magnetic strips, hanging rails and mounted baskets can keep your most-used utensils or ingredients off the benchtop and within arm’s reach. Get inspiration from @Acewoodhome's super organised butler's pantry that includes storage baskets.
Get more inspiration from 20 kitchen storage solutions by Bunnings Workshop community members.
