Navigating a kitchen renovation in Milton Keynes often means dealing with spaces that aren't perfectly square—awkward corners, narrow rooms, or challenging layouts common in established properties. For small or uniquely shaped kitchens, achieving high functionality relies entirely on smart, custom storage.
At Aston Designs, we specialize in bespoke solutions that transform limitations into assets. We believe that regardless of its size, every kitchen should feel spacious and work effortlessly. Forget standard shelving; here are five genius storage solutions we recommend to maximize every inch of your Milton Keynes kitchen.
1. Corner Magic: The Le Mans Pull-Out System
The corner cabinet is often referred to as the "dead space" of any kitchen. Traditional methods (like simple spinning carousels) often waste space and are difficult to access.
The Solution: The Le Mans Corner Unit
Named after the famous racetrack, the Le Mans system features two independent trays that swing completely out of the cabinet, bringing the entire contents directly to you.
Maximise Accessibility: You don't have to strain your back reaching into the void; everything is visible and accessible.
Use Case: Perfect for storing large, heavy items like stand mixers, slow cookers, and bulky pots and pans.
The Aston Designs Difference: Because this solution requires precision fitting into bespoke units, it cannot be added easily to off-the-shelf kitchens. It is a key advantage of choosing custom design.
2. The Larder Revolution: Pull-Out Tall Storage
A tall larder unit is the single most space-efficient component in a small kitchen, but only if the contents are organized. A standard deep cabinet often becomes a disorganized mess where items are lost forever at the back.
The Solution: Full-Height Pull-Out Pantries
This unit features shelves mounted to the door and a set of internal baskets that glide out smoothly as you open the door.
Unmatched Capacity: Provides an enormous amount of organized storage in a minimal footprint.
Full Visibility: When fully extended, you can see every jar, spice, and packet instantly.
Perfect for Narrow Spaces: Because the unit is narrow but deep, it is ideal for squeezing between an appliance and a wall, turning a previously unusable gap into a functional larder.
3. Custom-Depth Wall Units
In small kitchens, standard 300mm deep wall units can sometimes feel too imposing or block light. Conversely, in a narrow kitchen, you might want deeper units to balance the space.
The Solution: Bespoke Depth Wall Units
With custom manufacturing, we can adjust the depth of your wall units precisely to the room’s dimensions.
In Narrow Kitchens: We can specify shallower (e.g., 250mm) units to keep the walkways clearer and increase the feeling of openness.
Above Worktops: We can fit slightly deeper (e.g., 350mm) units in specific areas to maximize spice storage or accommodate larger plates without them feeling cramped.
Local Relevance: This level of customisation is particularly helpful for older terrace houses or cottages around Newport Pagnell where every centimetre counts.
4. The Magic of Kickboard Drawers
Often overlooked, the space beneath your base units—the plinth or kickboard—is traditionally wasted.
The Solution: Integrated Kickboard Drawers
These are shallow, pull-out drawers fitted directly into the plinth space, operated by a simple push-to-open mechanism or a discreet handle.
Hidden Storage: Provides storage right down to floor level.
Use Case: Ideal for flat items that don't need much height, such as baking trays, cutting boards, seldom-used platters, or even pet food bowls that need to be hidden away.
Visual Advantage: By utilizing the bottom space, you keep the main work surface and wall units less cluttered, enhancing the sense of space.
5. Integrating Appliance Garages and Charging Stations
In a small kitchen, leaving small appliances (toasters, kettles, coffee machines) on the counter eats up precious preparation space.
The Solution: The Appliance Garage (Hinged Doors)
This is a dedicated, counter-level cabinet built directly into the base or wall units with doors that slide back or fold up and away.
Clutter Control: Keeps work surfaces clear, making the kitchen look larger and tidier.
Integrated Power: We can install discreet internal power sockets within the unit, allowing you to use the appliance without moving it.
Charging Hubs: This space can also be utilized as a dedicated charging station for phones and tablets, keeping tech off the main dining and food preparation zones.
Conclusion: Making the Most of Your Milton Keynes Kitchen
A small or awkwardly shaped kitchen is not a barrier to a beautiful and functional space—it's an opportunity for innovative design. By focusing on bespoke, internal solutions like the Le Mans system and custom-depth cabinetry, you can unlock incredible efficiency and enjoy a kitchen that genuinely works for you.
At Aston Designs, based near Milton Keynes, our expertise lies in seeing past the limitations of your room and crafting smart storage solutions that rival even the largest kitchens.
Ready to maximize your space? Contact Aston Designs today to book a bespoke design consultation.