ᐅ How do I build an IKEA Metod kitchen with plenty of countertop space?

Hello everyone,

I am currently planning to remodel my kitchen and have decided to go with the IKEA METOD system. It is very important to me to create as much counter and storage space as possible to have enough room for cooking and preparing food. Since I value a practical yet attractive solution, I would like to know how to best design a kitchen with METOD that offers the most usable surface area.

I am considering wider countertops, possibly additional surface extensions or shelves—but the choice of base cabinets and wall cabinets surely plays a role as well. Are there any proven configurations or tips on how to coordinate cabinets, countertops, and accessories to keep the work areas spacious?

Also, I am interested if anyone has personal experience with smart combinations or special products within the METOD range that maximize counter space. Something like pull-out work surfaces, unique cabinet sizes, or added countertop supports that make better use of the space.

I look forward to your ideas, suggestions, or warnings about potential pitfalls so I can approach the planning with as much knowledge and clarity as possible.

Hello Quentingla,

I can relate to your question, as the topic of countertop and workspace in the kitchen is often underestimated. Regarding the METOD series, in my opinion, it makes sense not just to focus on wider countertops but to consider the overall concept, including the cabinet types and their dimensions.

- First, I recommend planning for generous base cabinets with widths of 80 or even 100 cm (31 or 39 inches), as these offer more workspace depth compared to 60 cm (24 inches). However, this naturally increases the space requirements in the room.
- In addition, wall cabinets or open shelves above the countertop are a good option to keep items within reach without reducing the actual workspace. Especially with METOD, there are modules that integrate well.
- A technical tip: METOD countertops can often be joined seamlessly—meaning you can work with corner connectors or special supports depending on the room layout to create continuous work surfaces.

Quentingla schrieb:
Are there tried-and-true configurations or tips on how to optimally combine cabinets, countertops, and accessories so that the workspace remains spacious?

I also see the importance of planning cabinet interiors with drawers and organizers to keep the countertop clear. Pull-out cutting boards or pull-out shelves that can be pushed back when not in use virtually increase the workspace.

One more question: Is the kitchen more of an open or closed design? This often affects the visual style and choice of modules, especially when shelves come into play. I’m happy to assist with more specific suggestions if you can share the room size and, if possible, your preferred style.

Hello Quentingla,

you’ve brought up a really important topic – especially if you cook a lot, you quickly notice how limited the countertop space often is. I once had a METOD kitchen with standard dimensions, and I realized that it’s not that easy to create a lot of surface area without it feeling artificial or having to constantly rearrange things.

Personally, I find it helpful to keep countertops as clear as possible and instead rely on pull-out or foldable extensions. For example, IKEA offers the Hackbord system, which you can use as an add-on – it expands the surface area upwards a bit and provides space for spices or the coffee machine without blocking the main countertop.

kulau schrieb:
Additionally, countertop-mounted display cabinets or shelves above the workspace are a good option for keeping items within easy reach without reducing the actual packing surface.

I also think that’s very fitting. Another tip from my experience: countertops with as few corners or interruptions as possible often feel larger. Corner sinks or induction cooktops should be positioned so there is enough space on both sides to place items.

It also depends on how you use the kitchen: if you often cook with several people or bake a lot, a kitchen island or a table directly adjacent to the countertop that serves as a preparation area might be worthwhile. This isn’t specific to METOD, but the combination really makes it practical.

I hope my experience helps you – I know how frustrating it is when you plan a kitchen and then realize in everyday use that there simply isn’t enough workspace.

Hello Quentingla,

to answer your question clearly and precisely: maximizing the countertop space in an IKEA METOD kitchen can be achieved by strategically combining the following elements:

- Include wide base cabinets (at least 80-100 cm (31-39 inches)) to create larger continuous countertop sections.
- Use continuous countertops where the joints are as seamless and flat as possible to ensure a smooth surface for work.
- Incorporate pull-out countertop extensions, such as pull-out cutting boards or roll-out trays beneath the main countertops.
- Utilize wall-mounted shelves and storage solutions above the countertop to avoid cluttering the workspace.
- Position appliances strategically to keep the countertop area clear, for example by installing appliances in tall cabinets.

Elias schrieb:
Corner sinks or induction cooktops should be positioned with enough space on both sides for placing items.

I completely agree with this. The layout of the work zones must be designed so that they are not restricted by fixtures.

Additionally, I recommend paying attention to the interior fittings when selecting METOD base cabinets, especially drawer depth and internal organization. This helps to optimize storage capacity and keep countertop surfaces clear.

If you share your measurements and room layout, I can also suggest a possible configuration using METOD components focused on maximizing countertop space.