Kitchen Drawers vs Kitchen Cupboards
When it comes to improving storage and accessibility in your kitchen renovation, one upgrade stands out among the rest: switching from traditional cupboards to drawers. At Brisbane's Modern Kitchens Northside, drawers have become a go-to solution for clients seeking both form and function, and it's easy to see why.
In a recent renovation for Chris and Gerry in Samford, the MKN team redesigned their tired kitchen while preserving its original footprint and cool-toned floor tiles. One of the biggest transformations? Replacing almost all of the old cupboard storage with drawers.
As MKN designer Megan Lovell explains:
"You can fit 30% more in a drawer than you can in a cupboard. With cupboards, you need to leave enough space to reach in and grab things. Drawers bring the contents out to you, allowing you to stack items all the way to the top without sacrificing accessibility."
This isn't just a designer opinion, it's a growing trend among homeowners. Across kitchen renovation forums and discussion threads, people consistently say they'd never go back to traditional lower cabinets. Why? Drawers are easier to use, reduce clutter, and make everyday tasks, like grabbing pots, plates or pantry items, faster and less frustrating.
Better Ergonomics
Many homeowners also appreciate the improved ergonomics. No more kneeling to reach into the back of a dark cabinet or lifting stacks of cookware out just to get to the pan you need. Drawers glide open smoothly, reveal everything at once, and reduce strain on your knees and back.
Quality Hardware
However, it's important to get the right drawer systems. In online threads some homeowners warned against poor-quality hardware or shallow drawers that don't fully extend, which can result in wasted space. That's why MKN only uses premium components like Nikpol smooth drawer runners, which support up to 38kg and offer full-extension access with a whisper-quiet glide.
In Chris and Gerry's kitchen, even their uniquely shaped pantry was upgraded with custom drawers in the base section, allowing better access to items in an awkward footprint. It's the perfect example of how thoughtful design can make an existing space not just prettier, but smarter.
Smarter Storage
From spices and snacks to heavy pots and even small appliances, deep drawers and compartmentalised storage are proving to be more efficient than ever. As more homeowners opt for drawers in place of cupboards, it's clear this isn't just a design trend, it's a lifestyle upgrade.
Ready to plan your dream kitchen?
Modern Kitchens Northside designs and builds custom cabinetry in Brisbane, made locally to order with premium Australian board, Blum hinges, and Nikpol runners. Visit our Lawnton kitchen showroom Brisbane Northside to explore finishes, layouts, and storage solutions that will make your new kitchen as functional as it is beautiful.
Start with booking a free in-showroom consultation at Modern Kitchens Northside or call 07 3889 9054 to book your design appointment today.
