PD Blog Article - Sorting Out Kitchen Storage

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There’s a very simple, tried and tested trick when it comes to planning for storage efficiency in modern kitchens. The key is to take note of your kitchen inventory in advance, by writing a list of all the crockery, utensils and other kitchen items that you own and that you use regularly.  This way, your kitchen drawers and cupboards can be made to suit your exact specifications.

  • Always use drawers where possible. While they might be slightly more expensive, drawers are also much more practical in allowing you to easily access everything at once, whereas cupboards have a front and back space that can make it difficult to retrieve certain items. Look at what you keep in your kitchen and confirm that the depths of your chosen storage unit match your needs. For example, if you like to store your gadgets in the kitchen, ensure that the drawers are deep enough to house all of your appliances, as well as your pots and pans.
  • If you need to increase storage room, overhead cupboards are an ideal way to do so. However, it’s important to ensure that they don’t make the kitchen space feel closed in. Choose a light finish, such as Silk, 2 Pac or Gloss Vinyl, to reflect the light. You can even add glass or Perspex to your kitchen cupboard doors to give them a feature look and to help create a feeling of openness.
  • Ensure that the runners and hinges on your cupboards and drawers are sturdy enough to support heavier objects, and arrange your kitchen storage so that the items you use the most are within easy reach. For example, a convenient kitchen layout might feature a dual drawer with a built-in cutlery and utensil compartment next to the cooktop for ease of access, with another dual drawer containing a spice rack on the other side.
  • At the very least, deep shelving (and lots of it!) can solve the majority of your kitchen storage problems.  However, where possible and if your budget permits, you should aim to invest in wire pull-out pantries. These pantries are great space savers, as are pull-out wire drawers for vegetables and drawers with handy divider panels.
  • When designing the space and storage in your kitchen, it’s important to get a feel for what works for you and your family. 





Potential Gasmate External Kitchen

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The purpose of bricking in one side of our Grand Alfresco was to allow for the installation of an external kitchen. I have previously blogged about Matador equipment, but we are also considering GasMate. Yes, they are way more expensive... but they are not a short term investment! Approximate total cost of $5500.

Gasmate Platinum Series II 6 Burner BBQ (approx $3000)



Gasmate 2 Door Bar Fridge 228 Litre (approx $1000)




Gasmate Platinum II Sink, Bin & Storage Module (approx $1500)




Photo of Stirling Facade

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Thanks to sliick over on the HomeOne forum for uploading a photo of another Waldorf with a Sterling facade... which is our chosen facade. Like us, they have put a window along the first floor walkway, but we had the rumpus room side mirror and the iron work around the facade windows remove. Our floor plan is also mirror (e.g. our Garage is on the other side).


Options for Grand Alfresco Dining Setting

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As I explained in the post about the options for the dining setting in the small alfresco... I am simply collecting ideas for the furniture that I could purchase, in this case for the dining setting to put in the Grand Alfresco. Ideas and suggestions are most welcome.

11 Piece Natural Stone MILANO MATEUS


Option for Small Alfresco Dining Set

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Even though it will probably be six months until we are able to start having furniture delivered I don't see any harm in gathering ideas. The best options that I have found for an outdoor dining setting to put in the small alfresco is the Melia 7 Piece Outdoor Dining Setting.


Featuring a ceramic tile-top table and unique wrought iron-style detailing to the chairs, the Melia Outdoor Dining Setting provides a stylish look to any backyard.

Practical Design - Measuring 1620 x 1010mm, the rectangular table features a sturdy aluminium frame which comfortably seats up to 6 people. Easy to wipe down spills and low-maintenance, the ceramic tile-top is a particularly practical option for families and for those who regularly entertain guests.

Comfy Seats - The Melia Dining Setting comes with 4 matching sling chairs and 2 rockers so you can take your pick between which style is best suited to your comfort. Melia is also available as a 3-Piece, consisting of a table and 2 rocking chairs.



Networking - Connecting Extra Routers

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As I have already explained, I'm a novice when it comes to home networking. being a two story house, we are more than likely going to need more than on WIFI router. So that I can get make this happen I thought that it might be a good idea to do some research on how to do so.


The image below explains what I want to happen, the article link and video explains (to my satisfaction) how to make it happen. There is more to it than just plugging in cables... unfortunately!





Networking - Connect a Switch to a Router

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When it comes to home networking I am more than capable of setting up a wireless network, but as soon as you start talking wired networking to me (e.g. connect the router to the switch) then you may as well be talking Latin. I know that it's easy, I've just never been shown how... so I did some research! I found a great image and also a very well explained video...



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