Take Inventory

Take an inventory of everything that you have in the kitchen and for casual and formal dining (whether it is stored in the kitchen, buffet, basement, or elsewhere). How often do you use each item--will you ever use it? If not, give it away to someone who will (it then becomes a tax-deductible donation). Is each item currently stored according to its daily usage? That turkey roaster can probably go into alternate storage if you don't have room in the kitchen. How many outlets are used on a day to day basis with your current appliances (large and small)? How does that change when company or holidays arrive?

Some "small" appliances take up substantial counter or storage space (i.e. bread machine, cappuccino maker, coffee maker, electric wok, espresso maker, food processor, microwave, stand mixer, and toaster oven, etc.) and should have their location planned depending on how often you will use the appliance. As an example, the stand mixer can be stored on a lift up shelf that is installed in a base cabinet. The shelf lifts up and secures in place for use. Be sure to include an electrical outlet in the base cabinet for easy accessibility.