An awkwardly wide kitchen can feel both like a blessing and a curse. While the extra space offers a lot of potential, it can be tricky to figure out how to make the most of it without the area looking empty or poorly planned.
Add Open Shelves
Open shelving is a versatile and cost-effective solution for filling wide kitchen spaces. By installing shelves in alcoves, nooks, or crannies, you can create additional storage for everyday items, cookbooks, or decorative pieces. The best part? Open shelves are often cheaper than custom-made cupboards, making them a budget-friendly option.
Why It Works: Open shelving helps fill wall space without the bulk of traditional cabinetry, maintaining an airy, open feel while still being functional. Additionally, by choosing multipurpose pieces such as decorative jars or plants, you can add character and warmth to your kitchen.
Use Multipurpose Furniture
Incorporating furniture with built-in storage is a smart way to utilize extra space in a wide kitchen. Benches with storage, island tables with compartments, and foldable tables are all excellent ways to keep your kitchen organized and efficient. Not only do they save space, but they also add to the functionality of the kitchen.
Example: Imagine a kitchen bench that serves as seating during meals and opens up to reveal a storage compartment for seasonal items or extra utensils. This type of design not only maximizes space but also keeps your kitchen tidy, offering practical tips for home organizing.
Add a Kitchen Peninsula
If your kitchen has an open floor plan or a straight wall layout, consider adding a kitchen peninsula. A peninsula is a perfect solution for extending the length of a galley kitchen or converting the space into an L-shaped layout, making the room feel more defined and organized.
Benefits: A peninsula can serve multiple purposes: as an additional cooking surface, a dining area, or even a casual workspace. It breaks up the space, making the wide kitchen feel cozier and more functional. This is especially useful in large, wide kitchens that might otherwise seem empty or disconnected.
Create Zones for Functionality
A spacious kitchen can often feel overwhelming if there isn’t a clear plan for how to use the space. The key is to create zones. Break down the kitchen into specific areas: prep, cooking, and plating. This approach not only makes the kitchen more functional but also gives each section a purpose, reducing the feeling of excess space.
Research Insight: Studies show that kitchens designed with designated zones are more efficient because they minimize the distance traveled between tasks. For example, having the prep area near the fridge and sink ensures that ingredients are easily accessible, while the cooking zone, near the stove, keeps everything within reach.
Use Glass Cabinetry and Mirrors
One effective way to make a wide kitchen feel more cohesive and spacious is by incorporating glass cabinetry and mirrors. Glass cabinets create an illusion of depth, while mirrors reflect light, making the room appear more expansive and well-lit.
Tip: Positioning mirrors or mirrored tiles opposite windows or light sources amplifies natural light, which is especially helpful in kitchens that might feel dim despite their size. Glass-fronted cabinets also allow you to showcase beautiful dishware or glassware, adding a decorative touch that personalizes the space.
Install Cornered Drawers
Wide kitchens often come with awkward corners that are challenging to utilize. Instead of letting these spaces go to waste, installing cornered drawers is a clever solution for maximizing these tricky areas. These uniquely designed drawers make it easy to access those tight spots, offering practical storage options for small or oddly shaped utensils, spices, or kitchen gadgets that otherwise clutter countertops or get lost in deeper cabinets.
Not only do cornered drawers improve functionality, but they also enhance the kitchen’s overall organization. For even more ideas, check our tips on how to design corner areas in your home and make the most of every inch.
Design Advantage: By using cornered drawers, you turn dead space into practical storage, helping to maintain the flow of the kitchen and reduce clutter. This idea not only fills the space but also adds functionality without compromising the design aesthetics.
Use Wood Filler or Expanding Foam for Gaps
Gaps between cabinets or other structural elements can make a kitchen feel unfinished or poorly designed. Using wood filler for smaller gaps or expanding foam for larger ones helps create a polished, cohesive look. These fillers work wonders when it comes to joining wooden cabinets, providing a seamless appearance that ties everything together.
Consider This: Think about using matching paint or cabinet fronts to blend these areas further. This attention to detail enhances the overall look of the kitchen, making it feel like every inch of space was thoughtfully planned.
Conclusion
The key to transforming an awkwardly wide kitchen lies in thoughtful planning and creative design. By incorporating home organizing strategies like open shelving to create visual depth, multipurpose furniture to maximize functionality, and adding peninsulas or designated zones, you can fill and optimize the space efficiently.
These changes not only improve flow but make the kitchen feel more balanced and inviting. And if you’re looking to tackle other tricky spaces, check out our tips on how to fill awkward space between your bed and wall for more inspiration on creating functional and stylish rooms throughout your home.