Sometimes function wins over form, and that’s totally fine. A lived-in kitchen has its own charm, even if the toaster’s always out.
I get where you’re coming from, but I’ll admit—I’m a sucker for a good “appliance garage.” Hear me out: Step 1, measure that awkward corner. Step 2, slap on a hinged door. Step 3, stash the toaster and blender inside. No more countertop clutter, but you don’t have to play hide-and-seek every morning either. It’s not full-on minimalism, but it keeps things looking tidy without sacrificing function. Plus, you get to feel like you’ve built a secret lair for your coffee maker... which is honestly half the fun.
APPLIANCE GARAGES: CLEVER OR JUST ANOTHER GIMMICK?
I’ve built a few of those appliance garages, and I get the appeal—there’s something satisfying about sliding open a door and having all your gadgets ready to go. But here’s what I keep wondering: does anyone actually use them as intended long-term? I’ve seen people start out with everything tucked away, then a few months later, the toaster’s migrated back onto the counter because it’s just easier that way.
Also, ventilation can be a sneaky issue. Those little cubbies trap heat if you’re not careful, especially with stuff like coffee makers or toasters. Have you had any problems with that? I’ve had to add vents or even drill a couple of holes in the back panel to keep things from overheating.
Don’t get me wrong—I love a tidy look. But sometimes I wonder if we’re just trading one hassle for another. Anyone else notice that the more “hidden” storage you build, the more likely it is to turn into a junk closet over time... or is that just my house?
the more “hidden” storage you build, the more likely it is to turn into a junk closet over time... or is that just my house?
Not just your house, trust me. I’ve seen more than one “appliance garage” turn into a graveyard for old blenders and mystery cords. I get the appeal, but I’ve found that unless you’re super disciplined, stuff just migrates back out. Ventilation’s a real thing too—had a client nearly scorch their breadmaker because the heat couldn’t escape. I’m all for tidy, but sometimes simple open shelves just work better in the long run.
Hidden storage is overrated, honestly. I tried a rollout pantry in my 1920s kitchen—thought it was clever, but it just became a black hole for things I forgot I owned. Open shelves keep me honest about what I actually use. Just my two cents...
Hidden storage is overrated, honestly. I tried a rollout pantry in my 1920s kitchen—thought it was clever, but it just became a black hole for things I forgot I owned.
I get what you mean about hidden storage turning into a graveyard for random stuff. But, honestly, open shelves just end up looking messy in my house—maybe it’s my lack of discipline? I like the idea of everything tucked away, as long as there’s a system. Labelled bins, maybe? Otherwise, I feel like I’m just staring at clutter all day. Open shelves are trendy, but I’m not convinced they work for everyone, especially if you’re on a tight budget and can’t just buy matching jars for everything.
