kitchen storage
A mobile butcher block island. A built-in butcher block top makes prep easy — but some cooks prefer it out of sight when it's not in use. A mobile prep cabinet like this can be pulled out when needed and pushed away when not.
ROM architecture studio Save to Ideabook Email Photo A mixer garage. This surprising twist on the ordinary mixer shelf helps keep this appliance out of the way but easy to access. A tambour-style door lifts up, while the entire shelf pulls forward.
A food-wrap divider can simply slip inside an existing kitchen drawer. If you're designing a new space, consider working with your cabinetry designer to get a custom version for one of your drawers.
Block the view. If you can't avoid making a mess while you cook, you can at least shield it from guests. A two-tier island or peninsula, with the back higher than the front, screens flotsam from those seated opposite the cook. This island has more height than some, so if the owners add a few bar stools that aren't too tall, guests would be hard pressed to glimpse more than a sliver of mess.
A handy step stool. It's always great to have a leg up for extra-high upper cabinetry, but where on earth should you store the step stool? An ultrathin model can slip right inside a discreet drawer. This homeowner managed to sneak one inside a toe kick.
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