The area around your fridge is prime real estate in your kitchen.
Yet, it often gets neglected and underutilized.
Those blank walls and corners have so much potential!
With some clever planning and design, you can transform that space into a functional storage station that both looks great and helps organize your kitchen.
For each idea, we’ll go over the design, functionality, pros and cons, and decor possibilities so you can determine if it’s the right fit for your home.
Mix and match ideas to create a custom combination that suits your lifestyle and taste.
Let’s get started designing the fridge surround of your dreams!
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Open Shelving
The first idea is open shelving.
Instead of boxing the space in with closed cabinets, try open shelves.
This gives you easy access to frequently used items while opening up and lightening the space.
The aesthetic is clean, modern, and airy.
For the design, opt for shelving made of light-colored wood, metal piping, or glass for an airier look.
Keep the materials and finishes cohesive with the rest of your kitchen design.
Incorporate the same color scheme and hardware.
Shelves should be 12-15 inches deep to comfortably fit storage baskets, containers, or decor.
From a functional standpoint, open shelving provides visibility and access.
You can instantly see and grab what you need.
It’s perfect for showcasing pretty kitchenware, cookbooks, or decorative objects.
Just avoid storing too many small items that can look cluttered.
The main downside is that open shelving doesn’t hide messiness.
So you’ll need to stay organized and tidy.
Curate what’s displayed and keep things dust-free.
Also consider a lighting install to illuminate the shelves.
For decor, go modern with brightly colored or patterned baskets and kitchen tools.
Or create a cozy farmhouse vibe with wooden crates, tin pitchers, and vintage crockery.
The styling options are endless!
Enclosed Cabinetry
For a more concealed storage solution, enclosed cabinetry is the way to go.
This traditional approach fully encloses the fridge area with cabinet doors and drawers to tuck everything neatly out of sight.
The result is a streamlined, built-in look.
Built-in cabinetry creates a custom, seamless appearance.
Opt for cabinet fronts that integrate nicely with the rest of your kitchen style – shaker doors for traditional kitchens or handle-less fronts for a sleek contemporary look.
Include smaller upper cabinets to utilize the full vertical space.
Functionally, enclosed cabinetry has its perks.
It conceals mess and clutter behind closed doors.
You can neatly organize items on shelves, racks, and in drawers.
Just be sure to incorporate some narrow pull-out shelves.
It’s also easier to control dust buildup.
The tradeoff is lack of visibility and accessibility.
You have to open doors and rummage to find what you need.
Smart storage solutions like tiered pull-outs, turntables, and door racks can help.
Also incorporate glass-front doors or open shelving units in key spots.
For decorating, opt for matching cabinet hardware like knobs or handles.
Go for a monochromatic look with one cabinet color.
Or inject personality by mixing up colors and materials like wood cabinets with black metal bases.
Mix of Open and Closed Storage
Why choose between open and closed storage when you can have both?
The best approach is often a combo.
Mixing open shelving and closed cabinetry gives you displayed storage plus concealed storage.
Aim for a 60/40 or 70/30 split.
Use open shelving along the top and in a few key spots interspersed with closed cabinets below and in between.
This allows you to store items conveniently within reach while also hiding clutter in deeper storage units.
Combining both storage styles also creates visual interest.
The mix of colors, materials, and depths adds appealing dimension.
Just be sure to maintain a cohesive style between the open and closed elements.
For open shelving, store frequently used items, pretty cookware and decor.
Enclosed cabinets are perfect for dishes, appliances, baking pans, and clutter-prone items.
Pull-out shelves maximize cabinet space.
A few glass-front cabinets also add handy visibility.
Overall, the combo approach maximizes function and aesthetic appeal.
And it fits any kitchen style from modern to traditional.
Tall Pantry Unit
Now let’s get into some unique storage shapes to spice up the fridge area.
First up, a tall pantry cabinet.
This narrow floor-to-ceiling cabinet makes use of vertical wasted space.
Its slender design fits nicely beside the fridge.
Select a cabinet that’s the same height as your refrigerator to maintain visual continuity.
Materials like wood, metal or glass work well.
Incorporate sliding shelves, racks and drawers inside for optimal use of space.
Glass-front doors on top provide visibility.
A vertical pantry cabinet is extremely functional.
It virtually doubles your storage capacity, especially for tall items like stand mixers, pasta makers and baking sheets.
Deeper shelves hold large platters and serving dishes.
The slim shape can also accommodate a broom or vacuum.
The sleek vertical silhouette saves floor space too.
Just be sure to have adequate lighting, as deep cabinets can get dark.
LED strip lighting helps illuminate inside.
For decor, create a unified look with matching finishes and hardware on the pantry cabinet and fridge.
Glass shelves inside allow you to display pretty cookware or dishware.
A vertical pantry cabinet maximizes every inch of available space.
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Microwave Cabinet
Another space-savvy idea is a microwave cabinet.
Rather than sitting a microwave on the counter, install it inside a dedicated cabinet fitted above the fridge.
This frees up counter space and streamlines the look.
Choose a cabinet depth of 15-18 inches to fit most standard microwaves.
Include an outlet, ventilation, and trim kit for a built-in appearance.
Opt for sturdy cabinets with heat-safe finishes in case of exposure to steam, grease or heat.
Functionally, a microwave cabinet provides concealed storage that’s still easily accessible.
It also gets the microwave off the counter for more prep space and cleaner sight lines.
If desired, you can even have it open automatically with touch-latch doors.
Downsides are limited capacity and the cost of cabinetry.
But in the right spot, a microwave cabinet maximizes function and enhances aesthetics.
Locate it near an outlet and away from corners or windows for proper ventilation.
Decorate with hardware that matches the rest of your kitchen.
Glass doors allow you to incorporate pretty dishware for a pulled-together look.
A microwave cabinet out of sight keeps counters clutter-free.
Angled Pull-Out Pantry
Now let’s get creative with cabinet shapes!
An angled pull-out pantry utilizes wasted corner space while adding visual interest.
It pulls items out of a hard-to-reach corner for improved ergonomics.
This cabinet uses an L-shaped configuration or zig-zag shape to create an angled corner cabinet.
Install pull-out shelves, racks and drawers on smooth metal slides.
For easier access, opt for full-extension hardware.
The angled shape and pull-out storage makes brilliant use of an awkward corner.
It brings items conveniently forward while maximizing every inch of space.
The unique shape also stands out and adds character.
Potential downsides include limited capacity and the specialty cabinetry cost.
Make sure to opt for sturdy full-extension hardware that can support heavy items.
But overall, it’s a functional and eye-catching addition.
Play up the unique shape with fun colors like a mint green or sunny yellow.
Add matching knobs or handles to tie it together.
The contrasting shape and color will really make it pop beside the usual fridge and cabinet boxes.
Banquette Bench
For a completely different approach, incorporate a banquette dining bench.
Not just for seating, a backless banquette fitted with storage below is perfect for tucking away kitchen items.
It’s a space-savvy two-in-one!
Tuck the banquette into a corner adjacent to the fridge.
Build a plywood platform fitted with pull-out drawers or lift-top storage underneath.
Top it with padded cushions for comfy seating three to four people.
You now have convenient under-bench storage plus a casual dining spot!
Store items like small appliances, cookware, table settings, or pantry food.
Deep drawers can even hold large platters and roasting pans.
The main limitations are storage capacity and table access.
But as part of an eat-in kitchen, it’s perfect for breakfasts and casual meals.
Top with colorful cushions and pillows to really make it pop.
A banquette bench does double duty.
Window Seat with Storage
If your fridge is near a window, take advantage with a built-in window seat complete with storage.
It keeps the space functional while adding a cozy perch to enjoy the outdoor view.
Build a wooden platform topped with a waterproof vinyl or upholstered cushion.
Include lifts tops, drawers or a simple curtain to conceal items inside.
Keeps width narrow enough to still access the fridge.
You now have sun-filled bench seating plus sneaky storage!
Use it to tuck away small kitchen electrics, cookbooks, or cleaning items.
A lightweight curtain conceals contents while retaining the light and view.
The capacity is modest.
But the extra seating and concealed storage transforms useless space into a functional asset.
Add colorful throw pillows and uplighting behind to create ambiance.
A window seat is cozy, space-savvy and functional.
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Display Hutch
For traditional kitchens, a display hutch offers timeless built-in charm.
The glass-fronted cabinetry elegantly showcases dishware and glassware collections.
Open shelving on top provides additional display space.
Choose classic shaker-style cabinet doors with glass fronts and sides.
Opt for smoothly gliding drawers to store serving utensils and linens.
Include interior lighting to beautifully illuminate your collections.
From a functionality standpoint, a hutch provides both open and enclosed storage options.
The glass fronts let you peek at contents while protecting them from dust.
Drawers store items conveniently out of sight.
Limitations include fixed shelves and limited capacity.
But the charm and function of a display hutch are undeniable.
Adorn with your finest china, vintage finds and everyday dining essentials.
The translucent glass fronts add graceful elegance.
Beverage Station
For avid home entertainers, a beverage station is sure to be a hit.
This cabinetry vignette gives you a dedicated spot to store drinkware, mixers and tools.
Add a sink, ice maker or wine fridge to complete it.
Start with glass-front upper cabinets to display your stemware collections.
Include shelving sized to neatly stack glasses.
Underneath, incorporate cabinetry fitted with pull-out shelves for storing drink mixes, cocktail gadgets, and bar tools.
You now have an organized beverage hub ready for guests!
For added function, incorporate undercounter wine storage or an ice maker.
Top it off with a small sink or prep area.
The options let you customize to your needs.
The only limitations are space and budget.
But even a basic setup makes drink prep and serving a breeze.
The specialized storage keeps everything neatly at your fingertips.
Infuse it with your personal style with art, accessories, and glassware.
Recycling Station
An often overlooked space for added storage and function is a recycling station.
Tuck neatly beside the fridge, it lets you organize cans, bottles, and paper in a handy drop zone.
Install a wooden base cabinet fitted with two to three recycling bins on casters.
Opt for commercial bins, or use woven baskets for style.
Top with a countertop at a comfortable working height.
With designated bins right in the kitchen, recycling is now quick and easy!
No more juggling cans and bottles to the garage or patio.
Bins keep contents tidy yet allow you to see inside.
The countertop work area gives you space to sort items.
The only downside is limited capacity before needing to empty bins.
Stick to two or three bins suitable for your household’s output.
For a decor boost, add canisters, ceramic bins and inspirational art.
A recycling station makes green living a cinch!
Baker’s Rack Storage
For a vintage-inspired storage option, try incorporating a baker’s rack beside the refrigerator.
These open metal racks on wheels originated in bakeries but work beautifully in kitchens too.
Their airy grid design provides open storage while retaining a light visual footprint.
Look for sturdy metal construction with multiple shelves and a frame on wheels for mobility.
Powder-coated steel or wood shelving are attractive and durable options.
The wire grid design allows visibility, while the shelves provide storage space.
Functionally, a baker’s rack is perfect for microwave storage, bulky bakeware, platters, and other larger items.
The open shelves lend visibility and accessibility.
Just avoid overly small items that could get knocked over or lost.
The wheels also allow you to easily pull it forward for access.
Limitations are mainly capacity and exposed storage.
But the vintage bakery style adds wonderful warmth and charm beside the refrigerator’s cold metal exterior.
For added cohesion, choose a rack with finishes that coordinate with your kitchen’s color scheme.
Then style it up with cute containers, antique cake stands and ceramic canisters.
A baker’s rack infuses kitchens with timeworn character and charm.
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Message Center
Finally, don’t miss the opportunity to use vertical fridge space for a message center.
This simple solution turns the usually empty area into a family communication hub.
Mount a large sheet of magnetic chalkboard material on the wall above the fridge.
You can buy it readily finished, or make your own with primer and chalkboard paint.
Add hooks alongside for hanging keys and bags.
You’ve now created a dedicated spot to jot reminders, to-do lists, schedules and announcements for the whole family.
The magnetic surface lets you attach papers and photos too.
No more loose notes scattered around the kitchen!
The only limitation is the lack of storage.
But pairing it with some open shelving doubles its functionality.
Leave chalk and an eraser handy for easy messaging.
Infuse it with personality through framed photos, colorful chalk and fun magnets.
The space around your refrigerator is prime for storage solutions that look great while maximizing function
With some creative cabinetry ideas like those covered, you can transform unused areas into brilliantly organized storage.
Mix and match concepts to develop the optimal layout suited for your kitchen and lifestyle needs.
Partner clever designs with pretty decor for a fridge surround you’ll truly love.
Get ready to revamp and maximize the potential around your refrigerator!
