Smart Kitchen Hacks That Really Work

Deen Gabriel
Aug 22
2 min read

Designing or renovating a kitchen isn’t just about making it look pretty — it’s about making it work for you every single day. Too often people copy what’s trendy, only to regret wasted space, bad materials, or awkward layouts later. Here are tried-and-true hacks to keep in mind:

1. Choose Drawers Over Cupboards Wherever Possible

Deep drawers beat low cupboards hands down.

No more crawling on your knees to reach pots in the back.
Everything slides out in full view.
Easier to keep organised.Cupboards still have their place (like tall pantry or under-sink units), but for lower storage, drawers are the smarter choice.

2. Plywood Instead of MDF

MDF (medium-density fibreboard) may be cheaper, but it hates moisture — and kitchens are full of it. Plywood is:

Stronger and longer lasting
More resistant to water damage and swelling
Holds screws and hinges betterIf you want a kitchen that doesn’t sag or bubble in a few years, choose plywood.

3. Island With a Hob, Not Just a Prep Bowl

Most “modern” islands get wasted on a tiny sink you’ll hardly use. Instead, put your hob or cooktop there.

You get to cook facing family or guests, not a wall.
Prepping and serving become social.
A proper prep bowl can still live elsewhere — like near the main sink.

4. Cupboards All the Way to the Ceiling

That empty space above standard cupboards? It’s a dust trap. Take your cabinets right up to the ceiling.

More storage for appliances or seasonal items
Cleaner look with no wasted gaps
Less cleaning and fewer cobwebs

5. Pull-Out Pantry Units

A tall pull-out pantry gives you narrow shelves that slide forward.

No more forgotten cans at the back
Everything visible at once
Great for tight kitchens

6. Corner Solutions

Corners can waste a ton of space. Instead of leaving them awkward:

Install a carousel (lazy Susan)
Use pull-out corner drawers
Fit angled cupboards if the layout allows

7. Built-In Bin Drawer

Don’t let a plastic bin clutter your floor. A pull-out bin unit under the counter:

Keeps the kitchen neat
Makes recycling easier with dual bins
Hides smells

8. Under-Cabinet Lighting

Practical and stylish. LED strips or spots under wall units give:

Proper task lighting for chopping and cooking
A warm ambience at night without switching on overheads

9. Appliance Garage

Small appliances (toaster, kettle, coffee machine) create clutter. A cupboard with a roller or flip-up door hides them but keeps them plugged in and ready to use.

10. Extra Power Points Everywhere

You’ll never regret having too many plugs — especially with an island, coffee station, or microwave nook.

Bottom line: A smart kitchen is one where every centimetre is used, materials hold up to daily abuse, and the layout fits your lifestyle — not just Instagram trends.