13 Creative Storage Ideas for Awkward Spaces in Kitchen: Maximize Every Inch

Do you have awkward nooks, tight corners, or underutilized spaces in your kitchen? These tricky areas can often feel like wasted opportunities, but with a little creativity, they can become some of the most functional parts of your kitchen.

From corner cabinets to narrow gaps, I’ll show you practical and stylish Storage Ideas for Awkward Spaces in Kitchen to help you make the most of every inch.

In this article, you’ll discover:

  • Innovative ways to tackle awkward spaces in your kitchen.
  • Easy-to-follow tips for maximizing storage without sacrificing style.

Let’s turn those awkward spaces into organized, efficient storage areas!

Practical Storage Ideas for Awkward Spaces in Kitchen

1. Install Lazy Susans for Corner Cabinets

Corner cabinets are notorious for being hard to access. A Lazy Susan solves this problem by allowing you to spin shelves and easily reach items stored in the back.How to Use It:

  • Opt for pie-shaped or full-circle Lazy Susans depending on your cabinet type.
  • Store spices, canned goods, or small appliances for quick access.

Pro Tip: Use adjustable Lazy Susans to customize shelf height based on your needs.

Storage Ideas for Awkward Spaces in Kitchen

2. Maximize Narrow Gaps with Slide-Out Racks

Narrow gaps between appliances or cabinets are often overlooked, but they’re perfect for slide-out racks or rolling carts:

  • Use them to store baking sheets, cutting boards, or spices.
  • Install a slim pull-out pantry for dry goods or condiments.

Pro Tip: Add wheels to make the rack mobile and easier to clean underneath.

Next to Check : Effortless Pantry Organization Ideas: Simple Hacks for Instant Results

3. Utilize Vertical Space with Floating Shelves

Awkward walls or unused vertical space can be transformed with floating shelves:

  • Install above sinks or stoves to store frequently used items like mugs or spices.
  • Use decorative jars and plants to add style while keeping it functional.

Pro Tip: Choose wooden shelves for warmth or metal ones for an industrial look.

4. Add Pull-Out Drawers Under the Sink

The area under the sink is often messy and underutilized due to plumbing pipes. Pull-out drawers can help organize cleaning supplies and maximize this space:

  • Use tiered drawers to separate sponges, sprays, and trash bags.
  • Opt for waterproof materials to prevent damage from leaks.

5. Corner Drawers for Awkward Angles

Corner drawers are unconventional but highly effective for maximizing space in tight corners:

  • Use them to store small utensils, measuring cups, or dish towels.
  • Add dividers inside the drawers to keep items organized.

Pro Tip: Choose soft-close mechanisms for smoother operation in angled spaces.

6. Install Tiered Drawers Inside Cabinets

Cabinets often have wasted vertical space—tiered pull-out drawers solve this problem:

  • Store pots on one tier and lids on another for easy access.
  • Use tiered systems in pantry cabinets to separate snacks, cans, and jars.

7. Repurpose Narrow Gaps as Wine Racks

Turn narrow gaps into stylish wine racks:

  • Install horizontal racks inside cabinets or open shelving units.
  • Use vertical racks for bottles if space is limited.

Pro Tip: Combine wine racks with glass holders underneath for a mini bar setup.

8. Hang Utensils on Pegboards or Rails

Awkward wall spaces can be transformed into functional storage using pegboards or hanging rails:

  • Hang pots, pans, spatulas, or measuring cups within reach.
  • Customize pegboards with hooks and baskets based on your needs.

9. Create Open Shelving in Corners

Open shelving is perfect for awkward corners that are hard to access:

  • Display cookbooks, decorative bowls, or houseplants.
  • Use triangular shelves that fit snugly into corners.

Pro Tip: Keep frequently used items on lower shelves and decorative pieces higher up.

10. Utilize Cabinet Doors with Hooks or Racks

The inside of cabinet doors is often overlooked but can provide valuable storage:

  • Attach adhesive hooks for measuring spoons or oven mitts.
  • Install small racks to hold spices or cleaning supplies.

11. Add Rolling Carts for Flexibility

Rolling carts are versatile solutions for awkward spaces:

  • Use them as portable prep stations or mini pantries.
  • Store fruits, vegetables, or baking tools on tiered shelves.

Pro Tip: Choose carts with locking wheels for stability when not in use.

12. Transform Blind Corners with Swinging Pull-Outs

Swinging pull-outs bring items stored in blind corners into full view:

  • Perfect for storing pots, pans, or mixing bowls.
  • Look for adjustable models that fit your specific cabinet dimensions.

13. Add Hidden Storage Behind Doors

The space behind doors can be used creatively:

  • Install slim storage units for spices, cookbooks, or cleaning supplies.
  • Use over-the-door organizers as temporary solutions.

Storage Solutions Table

SolutionBest ForTools NeededSkill Level
Lazy SusanCorner cabinetsLazy Susan kitBeginner
Slide-Out RacksNarrow gapsSlim rack/rolling cartBeginner
Floating ShelvesVertical wall spaceBrackets/shelvesIntermediate
Pull-Out Sink DrawersUnder-sink areasPull-out drawer systemIntermediate
Corner DrawersTight cornersCustom drawer installationAdvanced
Tiered Cabinet DrawersPantry/cabinetsTiered drawer systemIntermediate
Pegboards/RailsEmpty wallsPegboard/hooksBeginner

FAQs about Storage Ideas for Awkward Spaces in Kitchen

1. How do I start organizing awkward kitchen spaces?

Start by identifying underutilized areas like corners, narrow gaps, or vertical walls. Measure the space carefully before choosing storage solutions like Lazy Susans or pull-out racks that fit perfectly.

2. Are these solutions suitable for renters?

Yes! Many options like rolling carts, adhesive hooks, pegboards, and floating shelves are renter-friendly since they don’t require permanent changes.

3. How do I maximize blind corner cabinets?

Use solutions like Lazy Susans, swinging pull-outs, or angled drawers to make items stored in blind corners more accessible without wasting space.

4. What’s the most affordable way to organize awkward spaces?

Adhesive hooks inside cabinet doors, pegboards on walls, and rolling carts are budget-friendly solutions that work well without major investments.

5. Can I DIY these ideas?

Yes! Many solutions like installing floating shelves or using adhesive hooks are beginner-friendly DIY projects requiring minimal tools and effort.

Conclusion

Awkward kitchen spaces don’t have to be frustrating! With these creative storage ideas—from Lazy Susans to floating shelves—you can transform even the trickiest nooks into functional and stylish storage areas that work seamlessly with your kitchen layout.

Now it’s time to get creative! Pick one area of your kitchen today and try out one of these clever ideas—you’ll be amazed at how much more organized (and beautiful) your kitchen will feel!

Meet Madison Brooks, a former tech professional turned kitchen design expert who discovered her passion while transforming her own cramped kitchen. With a focus on mindful minimalism, intuitive organization, and thoughtful tools, she helps others create serene, efficient kitchen spaces. Her practical wisdom makes kitchen transformation achievable for everyone.

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