Surfaces

Keep Countertops Free of Clutter

When it's pulled down, a tambour door conceals this appliance garage.

When it comes to countertops, organization toes a fine line. Though clutter can make food preparation difficult, completely bare countertops are often impractical. Don’t get rid of everything—storing frequently used small appliances can turn into a daily headache.

Just as with cabinets, the important rule to remember is that the rules are bendable. By extending the depth of your countertops from 24” to 30”, you’ll find yourself with plenty of room for both appliances and food prep. If 30” base cabinets are too deep for you, bump the cabinets out 6” from the wall—your designer will be able to mask the dead space.

Your options for storage solutions include:

• Mount narrow shelf along the backsplash to store small, frequently used items like spices or timers.
• Opt for appliance garages to store toasters and blenders out of sight, or keep them in a corner or along the wall.
• Select a butcher block area with a cutout hole. Locate a trash container underneath to quickly discard scraps.
• Store spoons and stirrers in a ceramic crock on your counter for easy access.
• Install a pullout cutting board in an opening just below the countertop to maximize workspace.
• Want utterly bare countertops? Make sure you have the correct drawer storage as a substitute for countertop placement (i.e. a place for knives near your cutting board).