How do I maximize storage space in a small kitchen during a renovation?

Maximizing storage in a small kitchen requires strategic planning that uses every available inch — from floor to ceiling and everything in between. The key is combining smart cabinetry choices with clever organizational systems that work with New Brunswick's typical housing stock.

Vertical storage is your biggest opportunity. Most New Brunswick homes, especially the post-war bungalows common in Moncton, Fredericton, and Saint John, have 8-foot ceilings that aren't fully utilized. Install cabinets that go all the way to the ceiling rather than stopping at the standard 84-inch height. This adds 12+ inches of storage space that's perfect for items you don't use daily. The cost difference is minimal — maybe $800-1,500 extra for upper cabinets in a typical 10x12 kitchen — but the storage gain is substantial.

Pull-out drawers beat traditional shelves every time. Deep base cabinets with fixed shelves waste space because you can't reach items in the back. Full-extension drawer slides let you access everything easily. Consider drawer bases for your entire lower cabinet run — yes, they cost about 20% more than door-and-shelf bases, but the functionality improvement is worth it. Expect to pay $150-300 per drawer base compared to $100-200 for traditional cabinets.

Corner solutions are critical in small kitchens. Those awkward corner cabinets become dead space with traditional doors. A lazy Susan costs about $200-400 installed but transforms a corner into highly functional storage. Magic corner units (pull-out systems) are even better at $400-600 but give you complete access to corner space. In a small kitchen, you can't afford to waste any corners.

Think beyond traditional upper cabinets. Open shelving costs significantly less than upper cabinets — about $50-150 per linear foot versus $200-400 for cabinets — and makes a small kitchen feel larger. Use open shelves for dishes you use daily and closed cabinets for items you want hidden. A combination approach gives you the best of both worlds.

Interior cabinet organizers multiply your storage capacity. Spice pull-outs, tray dividers, and door-mounted racks turn chaotic cabinets into organized systems. Budget $1,000-2,000 for a complete organizational package in a small kitchen. These accessories often provide more storage benefit than adding extra cabinets.

Don't forget about unconventional spaces. The toe-kick area under base cabinets can house shallow drawers for baking sheets and cutting boards. Above-refrigerator space often goes unused but can accommodate a cabinet for seasonal items. Even the side of your refrigerator can hold a narrow pull-out pantry if there's 6+ inches of space.

Professional installation ensures maximum functionality. While you might handle some organizational accessories yourself, cabinet installation requires precision measuring and proper mounting — especially important in older New Brunswick homes where walls and floors aren't always perfectly square. A kitchen renovation in New Brunswick typically requires a building permit from your municipality (like City of Moncton at 856-4375) or Regional Service Commission for rural areas, plus electrical permits from NB Power (1-800-615-0522) if you're adding outlets or lighting.

Start by measuring your current kitchen and identifying your biggest storage pain points — that'll help you prioritize which solutions will give you the most benefit for your budget.