Kitchen Design
Decorating Guides
Sensible Style for Your Holiday Kitchen
10 ways to make your kitchen work even better for you right now
Your kitchen works extra hard during the holiday season. Here are some sensible style tips and resources for maximizing its cooking, entertaining, countertop and storage capacity at this super-busy time of year. First we'll look at appliance options for a multi-tasking bonus, then at storage organizers to stretch your space.
So many homes have over-the-range microwaves. By replacing a builder-grade model with a version that includes convection, warming capabilities and speed cooking, you'll add three appliances in the space of one.
Wolf Induction Cooktop
You've seen the commercials: Induction cooking is faster than even pro-style gas. It's also safer when children are in the kitchen, as they often are during holiday times. If you can't replace your current cooktop with an induction model, consider adding one as a supplement or purchasing a portable induction burner for extra stovetop capacity.
Cuisinart Brick Oven
Only have one oven in your kitchen? Add a countertop model. Most won't handle your holiday roast or turkey, but many can handle all of the side dishes you want to throw at them. A standard toaster oven wtih convection will increase your cooking power. A deluxe model like this Cuisinart will take it even further.
If you entertain frequently, an installed ice maker can be your best friend. Typically available in stainless steel or panel-ready models, they're a slim appliance with widespread appeal. Install one where guests can access it themselves. If installing one isn't an option for your space or budget, consider purchasing a portable model instead.
An installed wine refrigerator is ideal for holiday entertaining. If wine isn't a priority, you can opt for a beverage refrigerator or combination wine-beverage model instead. Both will help meet your guests' thirsts, especially when they're located outside the kitchen's work flow. Portable wine and beverage coolers are also available if an installed model isn't feasible.
ClosetMaid 3059 Kitchen Organizer Rail System
A backsplash organizer makes use of otherwise untapped kitchen real estate. That frees up valuable drawers and cupboard space. Sure handy at this busy time of year, isn't it?
A pot rack is another great way to tap into unused storage potential. By installing one on an available wall or ceiling, you're freeing up cabinet space. You're also making your cooking equipment more accessible — an ideal convenience at hectic holiday times.
Rev-A-Shelf Mixer/Appliance Lift Mechanism
Many home cooks cherish their stand mixers. For those of you who use it regularly — and have no countertop shortages — leave it sitting out for your convenience. If you're short on work space, you might consider one of these handy lift systems.
More ideas for baking stations
More ideas for baking stations
Rev-A-Shelf Tray Divider
Cabinet and pantry organizers, like these tray dividers, are great all year, but they come in particularly handy when you're taxing your kitchen with extra holiday preparations. By the way, tray dividers are especially useful for turning narrow base cabinets into more useful vertical storage.
GelPro Crocodile Red Gel Mats | Gel-Filled Comfort Floor Mats and Kitchen Mats
Holiday cooking, entertaining and cleanup can be hard on your body. After a few hours of working on a hard stone or tile floor, chances are your legs, back, hips and feet positively ache. A cushioned mat will make these long days much more comfortable. They're great anytime, but especially welcome at this time of year.
More: 12 Great Ideas for Keeping Your Kitchen Organized
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Bright and Modern Kitchen in 90 Square Feet
More: 12 Great Ideas for Keeping Your Kitchen Organized
Hot Ideas for Storing Spices
Bright and Modern Kitchen in 90 Square Feet