Inside Story

Increase the efficiency of your kitchen and make the most of the storage space with these clever ideas

- Lauren Delargy

There are so many different ways to make your kitchen more organised and efficient, while keeping it clutter-free. Here are some smart innovations for both new and existing kitchens.

OPT FOR DRAWERS

“We always recommend using drawers instead of shelves,” says Izelle Janse van Rensburg of Easylife Kitchens. Often items on shelves get forgotten at the back, but drawers allow you to pull out the contents and access everything inside.

High-end systems like the Space Tower by Blum take the concept of the drawer to a whole new level. “It’s the perfect solution for a pantry cupboard,” explains Bronwyn Shell, marketing consultant at Eclipse. “The drawers are arranged at heights that suit you and each one extends completely, giving you access to the contents from three sides.” The drawers also have high sides so that even larger items like bottles are safely contained.

Drawers for heavier items like pots and crockery need runners that can take the weight. “Blum’s drawer systems are designed to open and close smoothly, even with a heavy weight inside,” says Bronwyn. The system also allows for add-ons such as power-assisted opening and closing. For example, Blum’s electrical Servo-Drive does this with a light touch.