Storage solutions

Prosales, August, 2003 by Stephani L. Miller

Nifty storage features have been a staple of higher-end kitchen cabinet manufacturers, but many manufacturers are beginning to blur the lines between custom, semi-custom, and stock by offering a selection of higher-end storage features in their entry-point cabinets. Several manufacturers have expanded storage options across their product lines, bringing the functionality and style of entry-point models closer to high-end models.

In addition to offering more storage options, manufacturers are adding higher-end, more decorative door styles to their moderately priced collections. These features together lend an overall custom look, says Faith Allen, product manager for Merillat, while still providing value pricing.

To some buyers, interior accessory options for moderately priced cabinetry is a priority, says Connie Edwards, director of design for Timberlake Cabinet Co. "Some of these accessories will make a smaller kitchen more organized. Cutlery dividers and other accessories help maximize space and the functionality of a kitchen."

The interior accessories sport a more built-in look, and wood is taking the place of wire in most cases. "We've identified that wire is out. Consumers want really nice looking wood accessories that function but give them a custom look," says Sarah Reep, director of design for KraftMaid Cabinetry.

Mark Conde, product manager for Yorktowne Cabinets, says that vertical pull-out drawers, which utilize wasted space between a cabinet mad a wall or appliance, have taken off recently. "That's the type of feature that was limited to the custom cabinet manufacturers that has migrated down to semi-custom," he says.

Yorktowne (circle 106), KraftMaid (circle 107), Medallion (circle 108), and Wellborn Cabinets (circle 109) offer vertical pull-outs. Merillat (circle 110) offers double roll-out trays, re-configurable wood drawer dividers, and deep drawers with pegboard inserts. KraftMaid's new features include a tiered wood cutlery drawer divider and a base cooking center that centralizes all of the tools and utensils needed for cooking. Timaberlake's (circle 111) expanded availability includes tray dividers, a drop-in bread box drawer, and multi-purpose roll-out shelves. Wellborn's new introductions include three- and five-drawer bases, a blind corner base with pull-out tray, and an asymmetrical Easy-Reach Cabinet.

"Making sure the customer is aware that the accessories and options exist is important. Their function becomes very clear [to the homeowner], and most dealers are going to probably outfit the displays to better merchandise them," says Edwards.