Last week, we discussed ways to carve out storage space in inexpensive fixed-type kitchens. This week, we shall give you some more tips.

Below the counter

• Complement the space below the sink with a pullout detergent rack (for all your cleaning materials), a bin holder (that can be mounted on the inner face of the shutter below) and an additional dustbin.

• Invest in a cylinder trolley (built on casters/wheels) near the cooking area.

• Use as many shapes and sizes of door racks as possible. These are slim (3 to 5 inches deep) units for storing small bottles and knickknacks, which are easily fixed on the inner faces of shutters.

On the splashback

• The open wall between the counter and wall cabinets above can provide huge and handy storage space.

• Get your choice of splashback rail or rails. These are round (16 to 19mm in diameter) or flat (20 to 30mm wide) bars with varied storage attachments. Try to select one each of a spoon holder, a spice and condiment rack, a single-layer dish holder, a knife holder, and a cooking tools holder.

• Add extra hooks to the rail to suspend the chopping board, ladles, drainers and other assorted stuff.

• A recipe book holder works superbly in the cooking area. Complement these with trivets, which are 4 to 12 inch-diameter stands for hot pots and pans, and can be suspended on the rails when not in use.

• Locate a wall-mounted paper towel holder, ideally near the sink. Top up with a foil & cling film dispenser — with a built-in cutter for the sheets, and place it near the serving area.

• Add merit to the sink area with a soap and sponge holder, an over the sink draining basket and a towel rack.

• Then there are corner racks, magnetic knife racks, banana racks, single and double-deck plate racks.

The cost

Not all these are expensive. An average kitchen can get one each of all of the storage accessories at a gross price of Rs 40,000-60,000. Subtract the cost of woodwork (Rs 20,000) that you have done away with, and the net price works out to around Rs 20,000-40,000.

(The author is an interior design consultant, specialising in the design of corporate and residential interiors. As a senior faculty member at a Calcutta institute, she has delivered lectures, guided research and conducted projects in the field of ‘Housing & Interior Design’ for over two decades. She can be contacted at kusumsmail@yahoo.com )