ᐅ How do I build an Ikea Metod kitchen unit with plenty of storage space?

Gojon9 schrieb:
Can you give me more specific tips for choosing the Metod modules? Are there any proven combinations that work particularly well for my requirements?

Sure, I recommend the following mix for the base cabinets:

- 80cm (31.5 inches) wide base cabinets with 3 or 4 drawers. It’s best if the bottom drawers are extra deep so full pots can fit inside.
- Use inner drawers or organizers for smaller utensils.
- A corner cabinet with Le Mans pull-outs is a great choice if you have many large cooking utensils. However, store heavier items in the lower drawers, as the slides are sturdy there.
- For the sink cabinet, choose one with 2 doors or, even better, a pull-out system for waste sorting.

For the wall cabinets:
- Choose modules that are 80cm (31.5 inches) high. This looks better visually and provides storage space for pantry items, Tupperware, etc.
- Flip-up doors save space if you have limited clearance. Regular doors with handles tend to be a bit less expensive.
- Use adjustable shelves inside so you can arrange bottles or tall containers as needed.

Besides the modules, it’s worth considering internal pull-outs for spices or knife racks on the inside of the cabinet doors; Ikea offers several systems for this.

How far along are you with your planning? Are you already using an Ikea kitchen planner?

Gojon9 schrieb:
I am also considering corner cabinets with Le Mans pull-outs because I often had trouble reaching the back areas with regular corner cabinets.

The Le Mans pull-out mechanism is indeed very practical for blind corners. They take up about 20 cm (8 inches) more space than simple lazy susans, but you can access everything very easily. I would recommend reserving the corner cabinet for frequently used pots and pans.

Carefully consider the placement of wall cabinets: if you keep the upper cabinets no deeper than 37 cm (15 inches), the kitchen won’t feel cramped, yet you’ll still have enough storage space.

Also think about integrating a pull-out pantry unit—if there is room for a narrow cabinet on the side, this is a neat way to organize bottles and oils.

A few additional tips:
- Install furniture legs with adjustable height to make leveling easier on uneven floors.
- For drawer fronts, ergonomic handles work well, especially when your hands are wet.

Gojon9 schrieb:
I would like upper cabinets about 80 cm (31.5 inches) high to have storage space, but without making the kitchen feel too cramped.

With 80 cm (31.5 inches) high upper cabinets, you’re doing a lot right because you create more storage in the upper area without overwhelming the kitchen. When installing, I would recommend hanging the cabinets about 55–60 cm (22–24 inches) above the countertop. This provides enough workspace, keeps the kitchen feeling open, and makes the cabinets easily accessible.

Also, be sure to consider the maximum load capacity of the cabinet backs and mounting hardware—heavy pantry items in the upper cabinets require strong hooks and wall anchors.

Built-in power strips on the side of the units or as under-cabinet modules make it easy to plug in kitchen appliances without cluttering the countertop.

Finally, a combination of open shelves and closed upper cabinets can add a sense of lightness if you prefer.

I hope these tips are helpful.