Don’t leave it too late to maximise storage in a kitchen specification, as we take a look at the most popular and fastest-selling components

It’s all too easy to be swayed by asymmetrical silhouettes and frontal finishes or textures but, accomplished designers know the true value of kitchen design is behind the doors. Storage is key, and particularly important as consumers increasingly live in the kitchen, expecting it to host a multitude of activities, but still maintain a clutter-free appearance.  While it could be argued kitchen designers already know this – storage is still often overlooked. Commercial sales director at Masterclass Kitchens Steve Tough comments: “Many of our customers state lack of storage as the aspect of their current kitchen design that they most want to change, making it a key consideration for anyone in the market for a new kitchen.” And Wayne Dance, managing director of Schuller agent Inhouse, agrees: “Not having enough storage is one of the most common complaints from homeowners seeking a kitchen redesign.”

Creating space

It’s not just about creating space in small kitchens – although obviously important as home size decreases that is essential – but accomplished designers will consider the effective use of space in larger projects too. It’s all about exploring and maximising what you’ve got, using the latest storage components. Wayne Dance of Schuller cheekily points out: “Think of it as the kitchen equivalent to Lycra underwear. You cram more in to increasingly small spaces and you still look fabulous.”

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Careful consideration to storage components can create tangible additional capacity, anywhere from 50-55% claim industry experts. UK & Ireland business manager for Pronorm Jason Grinton comments: “100% extension drawers fully optimise the storage capacity of the drawer, offering an extra 50mm of accessible drawer space compared to cheaper kitchens that don’t open out fully. That may not seem like much, but multiplied across each drawer, across an entire kitchen, that can add up to a decent amount of space.”  Whereas sales and marketing director of Blum UK David Sanders is even more enthusiastic about how much space can be created when he says: “Studies carried out by Blum have shown that it’s possible to increase available storage space by up to 55% over standard drawers and fixed shelves.” And the great news for designers and specifiers, components that can help maximise storage are across the board from budget to premium kitchen specification.

Pull-outs remain popular

Obviously capacity requirements are based on the individual needs of the user or family, but accessibility is a concern for all. With an ageing population storage components can help future-proof kitchen schemes, so items stowed in cupboards are easier to reach without bending or stretching. Senior designer at PWS Graeme Smith agrees: “demographics are a major influence on what’s top of the storage list, the impact of an ageing population is proving a driver for storage soltuions that have an element of future proofing.”

So it’s perhaps no surprise that deep-pan drawers, now with even thinner walls for even greater storage, pull-outs and internal drawers are still key to sales. Head of Rotpunkt UK sales Matt Phillips says these storage components are key to his sales: “Tall pull-out-and-turn larder units and corner carousels are as popular as ever, combined with drawer storage with integral lighting in a range of widths and heights. There is increasing use of internal drawers, where one sits above another behind the same front panel to further maximise space.” And Steve Tough of Masterclass Kitchens agrees that hidden storage is a must-have adding: “Many of our customers favour hidden storage, such as drawer organisers with concealed cutlery dividers that ensure everything has its place.”  And this demand for concealment has also spurred the sliding or pocket door, which can conceal almost the whole kitchen, if required.

Of course, these components are not developed in isolation – along with pan drawers, runners which can take greater loads are required. Blum’s latest Legrabox runners can carry 40kg or 70kg depending on drawer width, while according to Graeme Smith of PWS: “A standard 300mm full-height Kessebohmer larder has an impressive 100kg load capacity”. And for sliding doors, movement manufacturers have worked to create opening and closing systems, such as Hettich TopLine which can be specified with synchronisation for both centre doors in a four-door cabinet.

Show and tell

However, and at the same time as concealment, there is also a concurrent trend to have selected items on display, whether glassware or designer small appliances. And as we reported last year, to satisfy the demands for a kitchen feature as well as improving accessibility mid-way storage is continuing to find favour. Wayne Dance continues: “The demand for mid-height storage solutions is growing quickly. For years, we have been bending down unnecessarily to unload dishwashers and stooping to retrieve heavy items from lower levels. With designs now incorporating mid-level cabinets, capable of bearing heavier items and storage fixtures, those days are gone.” And he adds: “Banks of door fronts are interspersed with contrasting open display cabinets because some stored items look better on display. Storage is now coming out of the closet.”

Talking about tech

But arguably one of the greatest developments in storage, hasn’t just been led by the need for older generations but also the 30-somethings who can’t be separated from their tech, even in the harsh environment of the kitchen. Think storage and recharging spaces for smart phones and tablets. Managing director of SieMatic Bernard Otulakowski explains: “One of the most interesting developments in interior storage solutions is the integration of technology. Our smartphones and tablets are now vital to our daily lives and so it makes sense that the kitchen, one of the most lived-in areas of the home, adapts to suit this need. Our drawers are now available with a special lining, Flock2Block, which provides a soft, velvety surface that will protect the delicate touchscreens. We’ve also made it possible to integrate USB charging stations in to our drawers.”

Premium storage requirements

It is perhaps, this requirement for more luxurious interiors, such as housing smartphones, that has seen manufacturers up their game from the traditional wirework. Drawer boxes have become style icons in their own right, with customisable sides or a choice of coloured options and finishes. Jason Grinton of Pronorm points out: “What we have seen over the last year is an even stronger demand for top-of-the-range drawer aesthetics with walnut finishes, glass sides and premium metal boxes. It takes the experience beyond simply the functional”. And design manager at TKC Jintendra Mistry agrees, not completely ignoring the irony of concealment requiring as much styling as elements on show: “Even though storage solutions are, for the most, ‘hidden away’ consumers still want – and expect – them to have the same wow factor. So it’s all about adding flair to these products. For example, at TKC, we have introduced titanium finishes.”

Show storage options

Now, more than ever, there are storage solutions to suit the needs and budgets of all consumers. Although we have touched on the major sellers, Nolte’s area sales manager for South West & Wales Eddie Streader says: “The list is endless! The dispalys in the kitchen showroom have to be spec’d up to the top with every option so that when the consumer ‘blind shops’ before sitting down with the designer, they alrady have an idea of what options are available to them and how the market has changed. If the customer cannot see it, they will not buy it!” And his view is re-iterated by managing director of LDL Components, Matthew Lord who concludes: “There is a massive opportunity here for kitchen designers and retailers to increase the average order of their sales.”

This feature first appeared in Kitchens & Bathrooms News September 2015 issue