Storage is what makes a kitchen easy to live with. Appliances and sustainability choices matter too, but all three depend on the same thing: joinery planned around how you use the space. Here is how we approach each.
Cabinet storage that works harder
- Drawers over doors in base cabinets. You see everything at once instead of kneeling to reach the back.
- Deep pot drawers beside the cooktop, with cutlery and utensil drawers above.
- Tall cabinets to the ceiling to use space that is otherwise wasted, with less-used items up high.
- Corner solutions such as pull-out or swing-out systems, so blind corners don’t become dead space.
- Built-in bins under or beside the sink, with separate bins for recycling and organics.
- Vertical dividers for trays and chopping boards above the oven.
Pantry ideas for every size of kitchen
- Pull-out pantry: a tall, narrow unit (300–450 mm wide) that slides out, ideal for small kitchens.
- Tall pantry with internal drawers: doors open to drawers you can pull out to see everything.
- Walk-in or butler’s pantry: room for small appliances, bulk food and a second sink. It keeps the main kitchen clear when entertaining.
Add power points inside the pantry for the toaster, kettle and coffee machine so they stay off the main bench.
Fitting smart and integrated appliances properly
Smart appliances only work well when joinery is planned around them from the start.
- Choose appliance models before cabinetry is finalised. Integrated fridges, dishwashers and wall ovens need exact openings and ventilation gaps.
- Plan power and data. Smart ovens and induction cooktops may need dedicated circuits, and Wi-Fi connected appliances need a good signal in the kitchen.
- Allow for ventilation. Integrated fridges and wall ovens need the airflow paths the manufacturer specifies.
- Keep tech in proportion. A well-planned layout and good storage do more for daily use than any app.
Sustainable kitchen choices that are worth it
- Durable, repairable joinery. Cabinetry built to last 20+ years is the most sustainable choice of all. Quality hardware and moisture-resistant board matter more than labels.
- Low-emission materials. Look for E0 or E1 rated board products to reduce formaldehyde emissions indoors.
- Responsibly sourced timber. Choose FSC or PEFC certified timbers and veneers.
- Energy-efficient appliances. Compare energy star ratings, and consider induction cooktops, which are efficient and avoid indoor gas combustion.
- Water-efficient tapware. Check the WELS star rating on mixers and dishwashers.
- LED lighting throughout, with dimmers where useful.
- Recycling built in. Separate bins for waste, recycling and organics make good habits easy.
Get storage right with Blackwood
Blackwood Carpentry & Joinery designs kitchen cabinetry and pantries sized exactly to your space, and our own joiners install them. NSW Lic. 502666C. We work across the North Shore, Northern Beaches, Eastern Suburbs and Inner West. For layout and lighting ideas, see our kitchen design guide.
See our kitchen renovation service and custom joinery, or call Fred on 0478 900 078.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best storage for a small kitchen?
Drawers instead of doors in base cabinets, cabinets to the ceiling, and a pull-out pantry.
Should I choose appliances before cabinetry?
Yes. Integrated appliances need exact openings, so choose models before joinery drawings are finalised.
What makes a kitchen sustainable?
Joinery that lasts, low-emission board, certified timber, efficient appliances and tapware, LED lighting and built-in recycling.
Is induction better than gas?
Induction is more energy-efficient and avoids burning gas indoors. Check your switchboard can supply the extra load.