Ideas to Utilize Awkward Kitchen Corners

Kitchen corners can often be one of the most frustrating parts of kitchen design. Whether it's a tight galley kitchen or an irregular shaped room, awkward corners limit storage and workflow. But with some clever solutions, these problematic spots can become functional focal points.

There are many creative ways to make the most of awkward kitchen corners. From smart storage ideas to unexpected features, you can transform dead space into useful territory. With a mix of DIY projects and professional upgrades, your kitchen corner doesn't have to be a headache.

Common Causes of Awkward Kitchen Corners

Kitchen corners become frustrating for a variety of reasons:

• Tight space between walls limits options
• Angled walls or soffits make the area unusable
• Poor layout blocks access and workflow
• Appliances positioned poorly around corners
• Dark, cramped corners with no natural light
• Excess wasted space that serves no purpose

Every kitchen has its own unique trouble spots. Evaluating the specifics of your awkward corner will help guide the best solution.

Access and Workflow Challenges

Corners become inconvenient when they interrupt kitchen workflow and access. Appliances crammed into tight corners makes them difficult to open and use. Poor layouts block circulation for multiple cooks. Solving workflow issues help make the most of corner space.

Limited Storage and Organization

Maximizing storage is key in small, awkward corners. Standard cabinets leave excess unusable space. Specialized cabinetry and shelving better utilize every inch. Well-organized storage prevents clutter from taking over.

Lack of Natural Lighting

Dark, shadowy corners feel cramped and uninviting. Bright lighting transforms the mood and makes the space more usable. Reflective surfaces and light colors also help corners feel more open.

Smart Storage Solutions for Corners

Storage is likely the biggest challenge awkward corners create. Finding ways to stash items while utilizing all available space takes some creativity.

Vertical Shelving Units

Floor-to-ceiling shelving units are ideal for tight corners. Stackable options with adjustable shelves maximize usable space. For a more built-in look, shelving can be customized to perfectly fit.

Multi-Purpose Cabinetry

Take advantage of excess corner space with cabinets that serve various needs. Pantry cabinets store dry goods while lower cabinets can hold large platters. Upper cabinets become functional with spinning "lazy susans".

Slide-Out Storage

Hard-to-reach corner cabinets become more functional with slide-out shelves and trays. These allow full access to items pushed towards the back. Slide-out units can also be installed in existing cabinets.

Open Shelving Displays

Prevent wasted space behind cabinets with open shelving. This displays items while utilizing more depth. Glass-fronted shelving highlights decorative dishware. Hooks and racks add extra storage.

Space-Saving Furniture Solutions

Furniture sized for tight corners maximize functionality. The right pieces blend storage and style.

Compact Dining Sets

A bistro table and two chairs tucked into a corner creates an intimate breakfast nook. Round pedestal tables fit nicely without taking up much space. Benches utilize corners without needing room to pull out chairs.

Multi-Purpose Islands

Kitchen islands adapted for corners provide counter space and storage. Look for narrow islands with shelves and drawers. The backside can act as a spacer between countertops.

Pull-Out Pantry Units

Roll-out pantry units hide inside corners to reduce their footprint. Upper roll-outs store dry goods while lower units hold cookware. Top the pantry with a countertop for extra workspace.

Creative Corner Upgrades

Sometimes small upgrades make big differences in awkward corners. A few simple changes create a more inviting, functional space.

Under-Cabinet Lighting

LED strip lighting brightens up dark corners under cabinets instantly. Illuminating dead spaces makes them feel more open and usable. Light strips install easily with adhesive backing.

Mini Sink Installations

Tuck a small prep, bar or utility sink into an unused corner. This adds function near food prep areas without requiring plumbing changes. Mini sinks come in a range of styles.

Tiling Accent Walls

Turn a plain corner into a decorative focal point with mosaic tiles. Tiles come in endless colors and designs, like bold patterns or metallic mosaics. Accent walls add visual interest to boring corners.

Floating Corner Shelves

Mounted shelves create flexible storage and display options in corners. Floating shelves line up neatly to hold cookbooks and decor. Or arrange asymmetrically for a more artistic look.

Major Layout Changes

Sometimes small fixes just won't cut it. Significant layout changes allow a complete corner redesign.

Reconfigured Cabinet Layouts

Changing up cabinet sizes and placement can prevent awkward gaps and unusable space. Consider wider corner units or angled cabinets. Lazy susans also improve existing cabinet access.

Relocating Appliances

Appliances crammed into tight corners cause all sorts of problems. Moving them to better positions improves functionality. For example, relocating the fridge to open across from the sink.

Knocking Down Walls

Removing walls enclosing a corner is the ultimate solution for small, cramped kitchens. This completely opens up space for better layouts. But it's a more extensive renovation project requiring professional work.

Embrace Unique Corner Features

Sometimes the best solution is to simply embrace the uniqueness of an awkward corner. With the right design choices, you can transform frustrating spaces into charming focal points.

Built-In Banquette Seating

Convert unused space into comfortable seating with a built-in banquette. Bench seating lined with storage cubbies adds function. Plush cushions and throw pillows create a cozy breakfast nook.

Mini Home Offices

Carve out workspace in a corner by adding a small desk or fold-down workstation. This creates a handy home office area without sacrificing kitchen space. Add stylish office chairs that tuck neatly under the desk.

Pet Feeding Station

Useless space transforms into the perfect pet-friendly spot. Build a custom feeding station with storage for food bowls, leashes and toys. Elevated pet bowls and padded mats complete the setup.

Decor to Spotlight Awkward Corners

Sometimes it's about making the best of the awkward space you already have. A few decor upgrades help highlight corners rather than hiding them away.

Stylish Cafe Curtains

Cafe curtains add height and a pop of pattern to boring corners. Hung from decorative rods, the curtains frame windows or glass cabinet fronts. Bold prints disguise ugly corners.

Wallpaper Accent Walls

Cover up plain drywall with stylish wallpaper or faux finishes. Opt for muted geometric patterns that won't overwhelm the small space. Neutral grasscloths add natural texture without bold colors.

Draw attention upward by filling corner space with floating shelves. This creates focal points perfect for displaying cookbooks, plants and decor. Stagger shelves at different heights for interest.