8 clever storage updates for kitchens

1. Turn pans into a wall display

Copper triple-ply saucepans with lids, from £55 for a 16cm saucepan, J by Jasper Conran range, Debenhams

Free up cupboard space and create an interesting feature by hanging saucepans from a length of copper pipe. Support each end with sturdy brackets and use S-hooks to hang up the pans.

2. Cheat an island

Suffolk chopping block, from £895, Neptune

Having a smaller kitchen doesn't mean that an island is out of the question. Make a compromise on size and opt for a butcher's block instead - it'll take up far less floor space but you'll gain an extra prep area.

3. Incorporate open storage

Long rows of open shelving along one wall will create space for a decorative display. Avoid the temptation to overfill shelves with all your tableware and take a less-is-more approach instead by editing the display down to a selection of pieces in one colour.

On a practical level, it's wise to edit your pick down to those items you use more frequently, so they'll get washed regularly and won't sit on the shelves just gathering dust.

Treat walls and shelves as one, and paint both in the same shade for a dramatic backdrop.

4. Make utility beautiful

Falsterbo wall rail with hooks, £15, Ikea. For similar brushes, try the Iris Hantverk range at John Lewis

Instead of hiding cleaning kit away in a cupboard, invest in some well-made, traditional utilityware, such as vintage wooden brooms, bristle brushes and antique linen, then hang it on a peg rail out on display.

5. Create a cubby for a washing up kit

Vyne White gloss tiles, £45.33 per sq m, Topps Tiles

If you're planning a kitchen refit, factor in extra display surfaces. A niche above the sink or hob makes the ideal spot for storing washing-up kit or cooking oils, and will be an easy ask of your builder before tiles, worktops and finishing touches go in.

6. Add a hint of vintage style

For similar storage unit, try the Brooklyn, £279, Maisons Du Monde

Bring personality to a practical space with characterful reclaimed pieces, from a factory-style metal shelving unit and industrial lighting to salvaged floorboards and reclaimed bricks. The utility style shelves free up cupboard space whilst acting as an easy access point for everyday pieces.

7. Go two tier with wall units

For similar glazed wall cabinets, try the Metod/Laxarby, £92 for a W60cm cabinet, Ikea

Standard wall cabinets often fall short of the ceiling and leave wasted space above that becomes a dust trap. Utilise every inch of space by taking wall cabinets all the way up to the ceiling, either with extra-tall cupboards or, if your kitchen ceiling is very high, by fitting two tiers of wall units.

8. Display tableware in box shelves

Bloomingville display boxes, £!59 for six, Amara

Work extra storage into your scheme with apple crates and box shelves. You could put a wasted gap between units to good use or go full-on with a storage wall of miniature boxes - position display boxes in a staggered arrangement with the odd one here and there fixed ‘box upwards' instead of outwards to add variation.