What Is a Blind Corner Cabinet?

Description

• A blind corner cabinet is the space where two cabinet boxes meet at a corner where one cabinet box is longer than the other box. The longer box typically extends fully into the corner but the shorter one does not. It is a blind corner because the opening does not fully reveal the interior cabinet space. To access the full space, the person using the cabinet must reach around the bend into the cabinet without being able to see into that portion of the cabinet.

Configuration

• Designers must adapt countertops and cabinets to the specific configurations of each kitchen. Blind cabinets are a by-product rather than a feature kitchen designers seek to create. The dimensions of these non-standard cabinets vary greatly from kitchen to kitchen because of individual obstacles such as support beams, plumbing and the overall squareness of the corners. Blind cabinets are an opportunity to take advantage of space that otherwise would not be used. For many people, kitchen cabinet space is a luxury and they will choose a space that is difficult to use rather than abandoning it.

Style

• The style of the kitchen cabinetry plays a role in the likelihood that you will end up with a blind corner cabinet. A corner cabinet with only a single door will leave part of the cabinet behind a solid panel. Choosing an alternative style with a different type of door, such as a bi-folding door, or a cabinet with a lazy-Susan insert helps to avoid blind corners. Designers also have the option of choosing special hinges to allow cabinet doors to open to the widest extent possible.

Remedies

• Storage solution manufacturers have devised new mechanisms to take advantage of the space blind corner cabinets offer. Inserting shelves that slide in and out of the cabinet alleviates the problem of having to reach into a cabinet blindly. In addition to sliding shelves, there are also spinning shelves and shelves that unfold when pulled out of the cabinet. Homeowners may choose from among metal, plastic or wood inserts.