In-frame kitchens offer a refined, classic aesthetic, but they also demand careful storage planning to blend beauty with practicality. Here are expert storage ideas for in-frame kitchens that support elegance without compromising on function.
Understanding In-Frame Kitchens and Storage Challenges
In-frame kitchens are characterised by cabinet doors set within a face frame, giving a framed, furniture-like appearance. In-Frame Kitchens page, this style allows for traditional detail and flexibility in finish.
However, the frame and reveal can slightly reduce internal width, making optimised storage essential. To maintain that elegant look, you’ll want storage solutions that don’t feel bulky or break the clean lines.
Pull-Out Larders and Slim Units
A narrow pull-out larder is a clever solution for storing spices, oils, or pantry items without compromising aesthetics. These tall, slim units fit neatly beside ovens or at the end of cabinets. They can be specified to align with your in-frame style so that they look cohesive.
Use deep pull-outs with internal adjustable shelves to make items at the back accessible and visible.
Corner Storage Solutions That Disappear
Corner cabinets often pose the hardest storage problem. For in-frame kitchens, you want corner solutions that are discreet and elegant. Consider the following:
- Le Mans or blind corner pull-outs — swing mechanisms that rotate and slide out
- Diagonal carousel shelves that follow the cabinet frame lines
- Magic corner systems with bi-fold doors that open within the frame width
These options preserve the framed look while making use of otherwise wasted space.
Drawer Inserts and Baskets for Organisation
Deep drawers are ideal in in-frame kitchens, especially when fitted with internal organisation. Use cutlery trays, spice racks, tray dividers, pan lids holders and soft file systems so that every item has its place.
The internal panels should be flush and hidden, so when drawers are closed you retain the smooth external lines of the in-frame cabinetry.
Appliance Garages and Concealed Storage
In elegant kitchens, you’ll often want to hide countertop clutter. Appliance garages (with sliding or bi-fold doors) are perfect for stashing small appliances like toasters, kettles or mixers behind the same finish as your cabinetry.
You may also incorporate pull-out bins, recycling units or integrated waste management behind doors that maintain the in-frame façade.
Specialised Inserts: Cutlery, Plates & Glassware
Think about how you use your kitchen. For a refined and tidy in-frame kitchen, use:
- Vertical plate racks behind doors
- Glassware racks under cabinets or in deep drawers
- Knife inserts flush with drawer bottoms
- Tiered trays for pots and lids
These insets help maintain the sleek exterior while organising your everyday items inside.
Lighting and Visibility Inside Cabinets
Even the best storage fails if you can’t see inside it. Incorporate internal LED strip lighting or motion-sensitive lights within drawers and pull-outs. This is particularly useful in deeper units typical of in-frame designs.
Well-lit interiors reduce the chance of under-used storage and help maintain that clean, controlled look.
Matching Hardware and Finishes
To maintain elegance, ensure that internal hardware (runners, hinges, slides) are soft-close and concealed. High quality hardware preserves quiet operation, which is essential in a luxury kitchen.
Your internal components should complement the external finish, concealed runners, hidden fixings and consistent materials help keep the polished look.
