What to do with Awkward Corners in Kitchens?

Homeowners commonly encounter awkward corner spaces in kitchen, especially when trying to maximise built-in storage. Jane Febrina, head designer at Collective Designs, advises clients to think out of the box in such situations. Perhaps the corner can be expanded into a small pantry instead?

There are also various proprietary systems that help negotiate awkward corner storage using a combination of sliding and swiveling mechanisms. It is the role of a good interior designer to propose solutions that not only enhance accessibility, but also ensure there is ample or even extra storage space, all while achieving a seamless and appealing aesthetic.

• Utilise corner spaces with custom-built shelves or cabinets. Lazy Susans or pull-out racks can maximise storage in these tricky areas, making it easier to access items.
• Narrow gaps between appliances or walls can be transformed into pull-out pantries. These slim, vertical storage units are perfect for storing spices, canned goods, and other small items.
• Convert an unused corner into a cosy breakfast nook. A small bench paired with a compact table, can turn an awkward space into an inviting dining area.

Curved kitchen walls

This older apartment (pictured above) has numerous curved walls, including the kitchen. Although aesthetically beautiful, they do result in a lot of wasted or unusable space, especially in an area like the kitchen where efficiency is key. Trying to fit a conventional kitchen layout into such a floor plan would be futile. Jane decided to address the curved kitchen space as a cut-out where she incorporated a small, hidden walk-in pantry.

Make it a pantry

When planning a kitchen, it is advisable to decide what goes where as soon as possible. This enables the interior designer to create or allocate specific areas for larger appliances such as the refrigerator, or incorporate a pantry or wine chiller for instance, and helps to mitigate awkward corners.

Hide behind kitchen cabinet doors

Awkward corners and areas in the kitchen can be hidden behind doors that blend into the background or are designed to look like part of the feature wall. This home, for example, has a generous storage area under the staircase, which is accessed through doors that are disguised as kitchen cabinets.