Heighten Your Storage With A Space-Saving Tall Kitchen Cabinet
Having a small kitchen often means making compromises when it comes to storage space. But with some clever planning, you can install a tall, narrow floor-to-ceiling cabinet to maximize every inch of available room. This versatile vertical storage solution will help you organize cookware, pantry items, and anything else you need access to while cooking and prepping meals.
A skinny, freestanding cabinet positioned in an unused corner or along a narrow wall space can add plenty of hidden storage without dominating your compact kitchen layout. By taking precise measurements, choosing the right organizational features, and incorporating specialty enhancements, you can heighten your kitchen's storage potential dramatically with one of these space-saving titans.
Measure Carefully Before Selecting Your Cabinet
Taking accurate measurements of the installation area is crucial for selecting a tall cabinet that fits perfectly. Consider existing moldings, irregular walls, or countertops that may impact the fit. Having the exact width and height measurements will ensure you shop for a cabinet sized to maximize the available space. Even an inch or two of difference can be significant when dealing with a narrow area. Carefully measure, accounting for any quirks in your kitchen's dimensions.
Choose A Style That Matches Your Kitchen Decor
Tall skinny cabinets come in a variety of materials and finishes to complement your kitchen's decor. Options like white shaker-style cabinets offer a clean, classic look that matches both traditional and contemporary designs. Rich wood finishes like cherry or espresso work well for a more rustic or traditional aesthetic. Or opt for a distressed, antique-inspired cabinet with chippy paint for a cottage or farmhouse vibe.
Beyond the overall look, also consider whether you want glass panel doors to view the contents or solid doors for a more seamless, integrated appearance. Selecting a style that fits with your existing cabinetry helps the tall unit feel like part of a unified whole.
Install Adjustable Shelves For Ultimate Customization
One of the best ways to maximize storage in a tall cabinet is to install adjustable shelving. This allows you to tailor the shelves to fit your storage needs, accommodating items of various heights and widths. You can space shelves closely together for small goods or farther apart for larger pots and pans.
Adjustable shelves also enable you to create dedicated zones or reserve certain shelves for specific types of items. For example, you may want a shelf just for baking sheets and cooling racks. The customization possibilities are endless.
Add Pull-Out Shelves for Easy Access to All Contents
While adjustable shelving optimizes space, pull-out shelves take accessibility even further. They make it easy to access items at the back of the cabinet since you don't have to move everything in the front out of the way. Simply grab the handle and slide out the shelf.
For narrow cabinets, look for pull-out shelves designed specifically for this purpose. Some allow you to configure the width and height to fit your space precisely. The smoother motion of these customized pull-outs provides effortless access for all users, including those with disabilities or limited mobility.
Incorporate Built-In Storage Solutions
Beyond basic shelves, specialized built-ins allow you to stash specific items in your tall, skinny cabinet. Here are some innovative options to consider:
- Slide-out trays or tiered racks for spices, packaged goods, or kitchen tools
- Mounted magnetic knife strips to keep cutlery organized yet accessible
- Retractable drying racks for washed utensils
- Vertical dividers for cookie sheets, cutting boards, and baking pans
- Pull-out baskets for root vegetables and fruits
Built-ins designed for narrow spaces utilize every inch. And being able to instantly access frequently used cooking items helps keep your meal prep moving smoothly.
Include Interior Lighting for Low-Light Areas
It can be tricky accessing a tall, skinny cabinet tucked in a dim corner or nestled between existing cabinets. Adding interior lighting illuminates the contents, so you can easily see everything stored inside. LED strip lighting offers an energy-efficient option that can be battery-powered or hardwired into your kitchen electrical system.
Choose lighting that matches or complements your cabinet's finish. For example, sleek metallic strips pair well with contemporary white cabinets. Or go for a vintage Edison bulb look to match distressed, farmhouse-style units.
Consider Charging Stations and Other Specialty Features
You can make your tall cabinet even more functional by incorporating specialty features like:
- Built-in USB charging station to charge phones and other small electronics overnight
- Integrated electric outlets for plugging in appliances
- Small dehumidifier or humidifier to preserve spices and dried goods
- Beverage refrigerator for chilled drinks, built seamlessly into cabinetry
Customize with options suited to how you cook, prep, and use your kitchen. Multi-functional enhancements set your tall, skinny cabinet apart.
Use Zones and Labels for Easy Organization
Without some type of organization system, it's easy for a tall cabinet to become a jumbled mess inside. Define zones within the space, whether by shelves, small baskets, or dividers. Then clearly label each area so you know exactly where to find and return items.
For example, you may designate zones for:
- Baking essentials like flour, sugar, pans
- Appliances like mixer, food processor
- Spices and seasonings
- Bottles of oils, vinegars, condiments
Grouping like items together and labeling their designated homes will help you keep the space orderly. Your morning coffee will be less rushed when you don't have to rummage!
As you organize your tall kitchen cabinet, be sure to consider convenience. Position items you use daily within easy reach. Reserve upper shelves and bottom cabinets for items used only occasionally. This prevents constantly moving things in and out.
Pull-out shelves are ideal for heavy pots and pans. Install them at a comfortable mid-level height. Slide-out spice racks right next to your cooking area keep seasonings at your fingertips. Prioritize accessibility for things you cannot cook without!
By customizing your tall, narrow cabinet with pull-outs, lighting, and other enhancements, you can transform an awkward, empty space into a storage powerhouse. Your kitchen will be far more functional and organized with specialized storage that adapts to your cooking style.