Ideas for Kitchens Without Cabinets

Canisters, Jugs and Ornamental Containers

• These items are well suited for everything from utensils to dry foods. Tall and slender containers fit well at the back of the counter and take up little space while holding a lot.

Hooks, Magnets and Pot Racks

• Wall hooks and magnets can support everything from cutlery to pots and pans in style and right at hand. Hanging baskets on sturdy wall hooks can even be used for produce, table linens and empty food containers. Pot racks can also hold lots of things, from baskets of dry goods to mugs and cooking utensils.

China Storage Containers

• Containers for protecting dishes come in many shapes and materials. Padded wicker boxes stack attractively, quilted zipper bags protect tucked-away china, and trunks or wooden boxes can be used for this purpose as well.

Stackable Plastic Containers

• Mix-and-match colored, transparent and translucent containers come in all shapes and sizes for stacking under counters, in the refrigerator and on shelves. They're good for food and utensils, even pots and pans. They seal tightly and are easy to clean.

Microwave, Wine and Serving Carts

• Usually on casters, these carts have a combination of shelves and drawers. They make attractive additions to a kitchen, come in wood and metal, and can increase shelf apace for dishes, bowls and containers, as well as increase workspace at counter height.

Bakers Racks and Wine Racks

• Usually ornamental, with three to six shelves and available in corner units, these racks are sturdy enough to hold china sets. They're also a spacious and attractive way to keep bowls and pans handy.

Buffets and Utility Stands

• These pieces of furniture are specifically designed for the kitchen. They come in many materials and design styles and often include trash bins, shelves and drawers behind doors, and some are closet height and designed to be mini-pantries.

Furniture Designed for Other Parts of the House

• With a little creativity, small armoires can be turned into china cupboards or pantries. Freestanding bookshelves can double as dish and bowl displays. Even a rolling tool cabinet can be turned into a decorative organizer for silverware and utensils.