1. ADD IN NEW CABINETS OR WALL SHELVING
When faced with floating cabinetry and space between them and the ceiling, it is a good idea to add in some shelving or even additional cabinets to help bridge the gap, says Raf Michalowski, interior designer. There are plenty of kitchen items to put in high cabinets to make the most of these new storage ideas too, such as dinnerware sets you only use for hosting, or seasonal table decor, so you don't end up storing something up there that you need the step ladders for every single day.
2. ADD PULLOUT SYSTEMS TO AWKWARD CABINETS
Organizing corner cabinets can be a nightmare, which is why they often turn out to be dead space. One smart solution is to add in dedicated pull-out systems to help reach every last bit of these awkward storage spots, suggests Cyble Rizwan of Persimmon Design: ‘Installing pull-out or rotating shelves in corner cabinets makes items easily accessible as well as optimizes storage and prevents items from getting lost.’
3. ADD BOOKSHELVES TO FILL EMPTY WALL SPACE
When we think of kitchen shelving ideas, a bookshelf doesn't always come to mind. However, not only are they good for organizing cookbooks, but they can be made into a makeshift pantry if you are trying to organize a small kitchen without a pantry built in, suggests Rosie Elliot, chef, and owner of Kitchen Appliance Answer.
4. CONSIDER BUILT-IN SEATING FOR CORNERS
One of the best kitchen seating plans for dead space is built-in banquette seating to fill corners and empty wall space, suggests Raf Michalowski, interior designer. ‘This not only provides extra seating but also adds an inviting and functional element to the kitchen,’ he says.
5. USE CEILING STORAGE WITH HANGING RACKS TO KEEP POTS
Ceilings are not typically thought of as dead space, but in small kitchens every inch counts. As a result, designer and tiny home specialist Erica Fecundo, of Hauslein, recommends ‘hanging racks to stow pots, pans, or utensils.’
6. FILL EMPTY SPACE WITH ART
Just because a kitchen is a mainly practical space in a house, doesn't mean it has to be void of personality. Dead space can also be filled with kitchen decor, adding a touch of charm to your cook space, says Raf Michalowski, interior designer ‘I love to add decorative elements like plants, artwork, or small sculptures to create visual interest and fill up the empty space.’