corner kitchen cabinet ideas

Innovative Ideas for Corner Kitchen Cabinets: Maximizing Space and Accessibility

Corner kitchen cabinets often pose a challenge, as they tend to be underutilized and inaccessible spaces in a kitchen. Instead of housing commonly used items like coffee cups or fine dinnerware, they often become storage spots for long-forgotten plastic items. However, there are various solutions and accessories available that can transform these blind cabinet corners into functional and livable spaces.

The Challenges of Blind Corner Cabinets

Blind corners, whether in base cabinets or wall cabinets, are characterized by their depth, darkness, and lack of accessibility. The geometry of most homes combined with limited space creates these challenging corners, aptly named blind corners due to the difficulty of reaching into them. Let’s explore the reasons why blind corners can be particularly problematic:

  1. Deep: Corners can be up to 50% deeper than the cabinets on either side, resulting in a significant storage area that is hard to access.
  2. Dark: Light is often scarce in corner cabinets, making it challenging to see and find items stored in these areas. Adding a light source can greatly improve the functionality of the space.
  3. Inaccessible: Reaching into the corner can be difficult, especially if items are stored at the back. It often requires stretching or blindly feeling around the sides of the cabinet.

Creative Solutions for Corner Kitchen Cabinets

  1. Beyond the Lazy Susan: Traditional circular Lazy Susans were once the only option for corner cabinets. However, modern blind corner pullouts provide enhanced functionality and accessibility. These pullout systems are available from major kitchen cabinet manufacturers or as retrofit solutions from companies like Rev-a-Shelf.
  2. Swing-Out Cabinet Base: Merillat offers a swing-out base cabinet that solves many of the challenges associated with blind corners. The drawers on the right side of the cabinet slide over from the deep corner, allowing the swing-out shelf to pivot and fit seamlessly into the cabinet.
  3. Improved Lazy Susan Designs: Upgraded two-tier lazy Susan designs have addressed the limitations of traditional versions. These innovative solutions allow the shelves to swing and pull out, maximizing the storage potential and improving accessibility.
  4. Classic Lazy Susan: The classic lazy Susan design remains a reliable choice for addressing blind corners. By cutting a 90-degree slice out of a larger circular shelf, it can fit snugly into the corner, providing easy access to stored items.
  5. Diagonal Cabinet: Installing a corner wall cabinet can partially solve the blind corner dilemma. These cabinets can be paired with a round lazy Susan, further improving accessibility. However, it’s important to note that the doors of these cabinets are smaller than the interior space.
  6. Staggered Wall Cabinets: Another visually appealing approach is to stagger wall cabinets as they go up the wall. While this may not significantly increase storage space, it creates a more aesthetically pleasing arrangement.
  7. Utilizing Counter Corner Space: The countertop space above base cabinet blind corners and below wall cabinets often goes unused. Adding angled drawers under diagonal wall cabinets can effectively utilize this space, providing additional storage while maintaining the functionality of the corner.
  8. Curved Cabinets: Eliminating corners altogether with the use of curved wall and base cabinets is a high-end solution that maximizes space and accessibility. This design option also allows for unique placements, such as positioning the kitchen sink in the corner. However, it’s worth noting that curved cabinets are less common and come with a higher price tag.