Multi-Functional Kitchen Furniture
As people spend more time preparing meals at home, they begin to look for ways to make the best use of the space they have available. This often means choosing kitchen furniture that is capable of providing more than one function. Fortunately, several versatile furniture options are available that work well in even the smallest of kitchens. Here are some examples.
One of the more interesting types of multifunctional kitchen furniture is the baker’s rack. They are designed to do more than simply provide shelf space in the kitchen. Often, there is one compartment or shelf that is specifically crafted to support a microwave oven. However, the function goes beyond simply supporting an appliance and supply space for a few other items. Some designs include a retractable shelf with a recessed leg. With this design, it is possible to create instant countertop space when needed. Once the extra countertop is no longer required, the leg is folded under and the countertop retracted back under the shelf.
Another example of kitchen furniture that performs double-duty is the rollable kitchen island. Usually lightweight in design, the island can be wheeled around the kitchen with ease, or parked in one spot. The countertop is usually made of metal, marble, or some other durable material, making it ideal for use as a chopping block. Underneath, there is often storage space for food as well as pots and pans. Some designs include drawers, making it possible to keep carving knives and other utensils within easy reach. Some models even have room for stools underneath, making it possible to even use the island for meals in kitchens where there is no room for a standard sized kitchen table.
A classic example of multi-functional kitchen furniture is the bench seat. Used instead of kitchen chairs, the benches often sport low backs, making it much easier to place them in a small kitchen. As a bonus, the area under the seat usually contains storage bins that can be used for just about anything that will not fit into the cabinets. Small appliances, cookware that is rarely used and even plastic storage containers for leftovers can easily be stored in the benches, and retrieved when needed. Benches of this type are usually constructed of wood, and can be stained or finished in just about any color to match the décor of the space.
Like the rollable island, a chopping block can also serve several different functions in the kitchen. Along with the ideal surface for chopping, slicing, and dicing, many chopping blocks today feature drawers and other forms of storage underneath. Because of the nature of the chopping surface, it is also possible to use the space for electric skillets or other small appliances, rather than positioning them on the countertops. This can make the block useful for chopping vegetables for a Stir Fry, since the chopped vegetables can quickly be moved into the skillet, rather than having to transport them over to the stove or counter.
Bistro tables and chairs can also provide more than one function in a small kitchen. In addition to providing a spot for a quick meal, square bistro tables can also feature retractable leafs that are pulled out and then up to the same level as the tabletop. The end result is a larger dining table, or even an ideal countertop to use while cooking. When the leafs are no longer needed, they can be retracted with ease and the kitchen immediately is in order once more.
Finding kitchen furniture that is capable of serving more than one purpose often requires some time and effort. While most furniture stores only have a limited selection of multi-functional furniture items in stock, there is a good chance they have manufacturer catalogs that provide a few more choices. This can be to your advantage, since it is often possible to special order the furniture and have it finished or painted to your specifications.
Along with offline sources, there is also the opportunity to find multi-functional furniture for the kitchen at many online stores. Some are devoted to solutions for small kitchens, while others are designed to work well in just about any kitchen setting from a simple Home Kitchen to a full fledged commercial food preparation area, such as in a restaurant. The variety of multi-functional furniture items is likely to be much larger at an online site than in a local store, making it much easier to compare types, sizes, and prices. By taking a little time to look around, there is a good chance you can find at least one or two pieces of furniture that would enhance both the look and the general function of your kitchen.
About the Author
Cynthia Andrews is a freelance writer who writes about home decorating, often focusing on specific items such as kitchen furniture.
Natural Non-stick skillet (no Iron Skillet or teflon)?
Do you know of a natural non-stick skillet. One that you can make crepes, omelets, etc in and has those curved edges, but is NOT made out of Teflon, or other chemicals, and please don't mention iron skillet, I already know about this. I know there's something else out there, another material, but natural. Does anyone know what it's called or what company might have it but sold in commercial stores like kmart, target, walmart, etc...?
If you cook properly, a high-quality Stainless Steel skillet (with aluminum disk base) will work perfectly. Don't buy one from K-Mart, Walmart, or Target. Spend some bucks and buy a high-quality skillet, such as All-Clad or Cuisineart. It will be naturally non-stick if you cook properly. I never have crepes or any other food stick with mine! And I've been using the same cookware (yes, if you buy high-quality it will LAST) for many, many years.
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