Built-In Kitchen Hits & Misses
Built-in Kitchen Features We Love (and Some Not So Much!)
When it comes to designing a dream kitchen, built-in features can make or break the space. From sleek appliances that blend seamlessly into the cabinetry to clever storage solutions that maximize every inch, the right built-ins can elevate both form and function. But not every trend or investment pays off in the long run. In this guide, we break down the hits that truly enhance everyday living—and the misses that might leave you wishing you’d gone a different route. Built-In Kitchen Hits & Misses, by Windy Windy Dehem.
NEAT Method Macon
Welcome to NEAT Method Macon – your trusted home organization experts proudly serving Macon, Middle and South Georgia, Columbus, Lake Oconee, and nearby communities. We specialize in transforming cluttered, chaotic spaces into beautifully organized havens, offering customized solutions for everything from cozy apartments to spacious homes and offices.
Owner of NEAT Method Macon, Windy Dehem, brings a thoughtful, design-forward approach to every project—whether we’re streamlining your pantry, organizing your office, or handling the stress of unpacking after a move. We’re here to make your space not only more functional but also a reflection of your lifestyle and aesthetic. At NEAT Method Macon, we believe in the power of an organized space to bring clarity, calm, and joy to your everyday life. Let us help you create a home or workspace that works for you—where beauty meets purpose, and everything has its place.
“I love seeing the excitement on people’s faces when their new space is revealed. I love the feedback I receive from my family and friends telling me how they feel so refreshed and have a sense of calm when they are in their new organized space and how now they are inspired to tackle more projects and continue the work throughout their homes. Today’s families are so incredibly busy. I love that our homes can be our quiet sanctuaries of respite and relaxation–or dance parties in the kitchen! Places where we can unwind and recharge however we need it.”
Source: NEAT News Thursday, July 15, 2021 | Full Article
Built-In Kitchen Hits & Misses
Built-in Kitchen Features We Love (and Some Not So Much!)
By: Windy Dehem | NEAT Method Macon, luxury home organizers | Email: windy.dehem@neatmethod.com | @maconneat | Phone: 478.227.5211
Fear of Commitment?
Let’s break it down. Don’t worry—we’re sticking to what we know: kitchen cabinet built-ins that professional organizers love. Every time NEAT Method Macon organizes a kitchen, our goal is simple: Create a beautiful, decluttered space that functions intuitively for the entire family and is a breeze to maintain. We’re also aware that lifestyle routines evolve (and that a woman *might* change her mind). So, we must choose wisely when selecting from today’s impressive array of built-in options.
Upgrades Worth Considering
1. Lifestyle Zones + Micro Organizing
Speaking of morning routines, the beloved coffee station isn’t going anywhere. In fact, hyper-focused lifestyle spaces are in higher demand than ever. At NEAT Method Macon, we’ve always approached kitchens in terms of “zones.” Whether it’s for baking, lunch packing, or smoothie blending, true luxury isn’t just about looking perfect–it’s about working perfectly. Planning built-in features to support your family’s lifestyle is truly revolutionizing how people experience their homes every single day. (Pro Tip:: Always be intentional about drawer heights, knowing which zones will be located at which cabinet and how the tools and organizing supplies, like canisters, will be placed inside the drawer.)
Built-In Kitchen Hits & Misses
Built-in Kitchen Features We Love (and Some Not So Much!)
2. Magic Corners
Yes, please! Awkward cabinet corners are the Bermuda Triangle of kitchens. Items go in and never come out. We love a built-in two-tier system like Rev-a Shelf’s walnut pull-out or the “Cloud” that makes easy use of that hard-to-reach corner space.
3. Vertical Pull-Outs
A great solution for spices and cookie sheets. Don’t be fooled by the internet–the average family has more than 15-25 jars of spices. We find it’s closer to 40. These seemingly inconsequential items consume valuable real estate. And we’ve all been there–trying to pry an oversized sheet pan from the bottom of a packed drawer. Vertical cabinet solutions tucked beside the range are an ideal storage spot (shown here with our NEAT Method spice jar collection). With endless customization, these built-ins are making their way around the modern kitchen from refrigerator cabinets to coffee stations, too!
Spoiler: Most families have 40+ spice jars (not 15!). Vertical storage beside the range is a sleek, space-saving solution.
Built-In Kitchen Hits & Misses
Built-in Kitchen Features We Love (and Some Not So Much!)
4. Appliance Garage
If you’re a gadget gal or guy, consider planning designated storage for your array of kitchen appliances. Nothing is more annoying than trying to lift a heavy appliance from a bottom cabinet and then searching for its accessories. And keeping these items close at hand on the countertop can be achieved without compromising the aesthetic of your kitchen design. These stations can be seamlessly incorporated into your cabinetry with pocket doors, prep ledges, and more. If you’re a gadget person, this one’s for you. These stations hide everything from blenders to stand mixers—without cluttering your counters. Pocket doors, prep ledges, custom shelves—yes, yes, and yes.
Built-In Kitchen Hits & Misses
Built-in Kitchen Features We Love (and Some Not So Much!)
5. Electronics, Pot Lids + Paper Towels (Oh My!)
Rounding out our favorites, here are a few last, but certainly not least, built-in features we love.
- Docking Stations: Docking Stations work wonders for families with young children. These designated spots keep electronics out of kids’ rooms and make life easier for parents on the go who know exactly where to reach for the iPad when heading out the door.
- Double Drawers: Double Drawers for pot lid storage are a game changer. This cabinet feature appears to be one deep drawer but has a roughly 3” shallow drawer tucked inside at the top. A great place to store pot lids or less frequently used items like cast iron skillets.
- Paper Towel Nooks: Paper Towel Nooks discreetly built into base cabinets? *Chef’s kiss* We will absolutely go to battle with husbands across Middle Georgia to get those paper towels off the countertop! A paper towel drawer is one of our new favorite hidden essentials.
So, what Built-in Features are NOT to Love?
These cabinetry add-ons sound like a good idea, but we advise skipping them. Why? Because they’re easily added after installation for a fraction of the cost, can be completely customized to your exact belongings, and planned for room to grow; these stand-alone items are often available in upgraded wood finishes.
- Drawer Dividers
- Knife Blocks
- Tupperware Inserts
- Spice Drawer Risers
These items are so simple to add during the organizing process and provide flexibility with your kitchen layout. While we do recommend these features in some situations, if you have not carefully space-planned every drawer and cabinet, you may appreciate the option to move items around once you’ve moved in. And bonus for new builds and renovations–we work alongside you, your designer, and cabinet maker to space plan every zone and custom built-in, down to the dish towel drawer!)
Pro Tip: NEAT Method Macon brings everything you need after installation—right down to your custom dish towel drawer. No guessing, no wasted space.
“I truly believe a clutter-free, organized space helps bring this to families’ lives, because when everything has its place and there’s a system, it’s easier to keep things picked up and put away. There’s nothing like that “ahhhh” moment when you sit down with a glass of wine at the end of a long day, and the house is clean and tidy. I want to bring “ahhh” moments to people all over Middle Georgia!” Source: NEAT News Thursday, July 15, 2021 | Full Article
A Kitchen That Works as Beautifully as It Looks
Whether you’re a buyer about to purchase a home, upgrading the kitchen of your existing home, or prepping a home to sell, ensure the heart of your home functions perfectly. Thoughtful planning creates a kitchen that works as beautifully as it looks. For a consultation with the team at NEAT Method Macon, contact Windy Dehem, owner, at windy.dehem@neatmethod.com. | @maconneat
Built-In Kitchen Hits & Misses
By: Windy Dehem | NEAT Method Macon, luxury home organizers | Email: windy.dehem@neatmethod.com | @maconneat | Phone: 478.227.5211
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