HOME INSPIRATION
An efficient and streamlined kitchen doesn’t have to be spartan and sterile. Here are 20 ways to make it feel organised, warm and welcoming
1 LOOK UP
With the right treatment, ceilings can be a valuable source of extra storage space. If you have beams, consider adding hooks, or mount a pot hanger over worksurfaces, an island or table – being mindful of where headroom is needed.
2 OPEN UP SMALL SPACES
Celebrated clutter buster Nicola Lewis (thisgirlcanorganise.com) recommends open shelving in small kitchens: “It opens the space up visually and allows easy access to frequently used items.” Wrap the same paint colour over walls, cabinets and shelving to further expand the room.
3 ADD QUIRKY SHELVING
Think outside the box when it comes to shelving: vintage crates can be wall-mounted as a rustic alternative to open shelving – or use slimprofile printmakers’ trays where space is tight. Alternatively, hang a weathered wooden ladder from the ceiling with hooks for a unique way to display pans, hops or dried herbs.
4 PEG IT
Shaker-style wooden peg rails are one of the most versatile storage solutions around: hang mugs or linens from them, rest a selection of plates on top or display decorative flourishes such as dried flowers or garlands that change with the season.
5 TAKE ADVANTAGE OF VINTAGE
Flea markets and charity shops can be a treasure trove of eclectic finds that double up as storage. Vintage enamel tins add retro charm when filled with tea bags or snacks while letter racks or trays can be used for cutlery. Enamel bread bin, £98, Labour and Wait. Wooden tray, £95, Scaramanga.
6 OPEN UP YOUR PANTRY
Gone are the days of hiding the pantry away: keeping an open doorway through from the kitchen and using the same flooring throughout creates a sense of flow that will enlarge both spaces, and allows conversation to continue when hosting and preparing meals. When planning larder shelving, William Durrant, owner of Herringbone kitchens (herringbonekitchens.com), advises: “From the beginning, consider what you want to store and measure up these items to ensure the shelving spacing and height is right.” The vibrant painted woodwork in this scheme neatly frames and highlights the light-filled panelled pantry.
7 REPURPOSE FURNITURE
Almost any piece of furniture can find a function in a country kitchen. Reimagine a chest of drawers or cupboard to stash cutlery and crockery, topped with a shelving unit to mimic the look of a dresser; chalk-paint a bookshelf for storage or drape a wooden ladder with tea towels
