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We recently sat down with Sheri Van Bruggen, one of our Kitchen Design Specialists to talk about the little details that make a big difference in a kitchen. From smarter storage to real-life durability, here are the “things I wish I would have known” — straight from someone who designs kitchens every day and lives in one at night.
As our designer put it best: “We’re not getting any younger.”
That’s why she strongly recommends using more drawer base cabinets instead of traditional doors with shelves. Not only are deep drawers easier on your back and knees, but paired with roll-out trays, they bring everything within reach - no digging required.
💡 Pro Tip: Add roll-outs to your existing cabinets if a full renovation isn’t in the cards. It’s one of the best small upgrades you can make.
Maximizing storage in corner cabinets is too often overlooked. Don’t settle for that cavernous black hole where things go to disappear.
“People lose so much space and function in corners.”
Consider adding lazy Susans (wooden preferred!) or blind-corner pullouts that slide out in sections. Avoid plastic versions - save those for the laundry room.
One of her favorite features she wished she'd done sooner?
“A two-tiered cutlery drawer insert - it doubles your storage in the same space.”
These clever inserts allow you to stack silverware or tools neatly and still access everything easily. It's a simple upgrade that adds a surprisingly satisfying touch of organization.
Whether you’re hosting dinner or your kids are baking at 10 PM (true story), having electrical outlets built into your island is a game-changer.
It’s perfect for small appliances, charging phones, or plugging in mixers without cords stretched across the room.
One of the most underappreciated accessories? Knife or utensil pullouts -narrow cabinets with vertical canisters that slide out beside your range.
“I didn’t know how much I’d love those until I saw one in a client’s kitchen.”
They free up drawer space and keep your most-used tools right where you need them - safely stowed, easy to grab.
No more wrestling with a freestanding trash can.
If you’re designing or remodeling, add a pull-out trash cabinet near your prep zone. Many models can hold dual bins for trash and recycling, and they keep things out of sight but always accessible.
As she put it with a smile:
“I don’t have a maid. And my daughter bakes at 10 o’clock at night.”
If you have kids, pets, or an active household, consider stained wood cabinets over painted ones. Stains tend to be more forgiving with fingerprints, scratches, and splatters - perfect for busy families.
It’s easy to get caught up in color swatches and countertop samples, but don’t forget to ask yourself: How will my kitchen actually work for me?
Sometimes the best design decisions aren’t flashy, they’re practical. They’re about making your kitchen more efficient, more accessible, and more enjoyable every single day.
We’d love to help you plan a space that fits your style and your life. Stop by our showroom or schedule a design consultation, and learn from the people who’ve seen it all (and wish they had done it sooner).
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