ᐅ How do I build IKEA Metod kitchen cabinets with plenty of storage space?

Hello everyone, I am currently planning my new kitchen using the Ikea Metod system and looking for tips on how to install or select kitchen cabinets to maximize storage space. Specifically, I want to find the best way to combine different cabinet types, integrate internal organization systems effectively, and make good use of any room niches or corners.

I already have some ideas but am not familiar with all the module options and cabinet widths in detail. Does anyone have experience with the best approach to get as much storage as possible without making the kitchen feel cluttered? Advice on pull-outs, drawers, interior divisions, corner solutions, or recommendations for particularly clever storage ideas would be greatly appreciated. Thank you in advance!

Hello Anlo3, that is a very good and specific question! If you really want to create a lot of storage space with Ikea Metod, I can share the following basic tips with you:

- Avoid too many open shelves, as they take up space and visually reduce the usable storage area.
- Focus mainly on tall base cabinets with internal drawers, as these offer more volume than simple drawers.
- Corner solutions like carousel cabinets or pull-out corner cabinets are very helpful to avoid dead corners.
- Internal organizers, such as adjustable inserts and hanging baskets, create order and allow better use of cabinet space.
- Pay attention to cabinet height: 80cm (31.5 inches) high base cabinets are standard, but often you can add extra shelves by choosing taller modules like 90cm (35.4 inches) or 100cm (39.4 inches).

I recently built an Ikea Metod kitchen myself and recommend planning with their software to accurately check the cabinet volumes. If you want, I can also share some photos or examples of my installation.

Ramon4 schrieb:
If you really want to create a lot of storage space with Ikea Metod, I can share the following basic tips:

I really like Ramon4’s tips because they are very practical. At first, I was also a bit worried about losing track at Ikea since the selection is really extensive. For me, it was important to design the storage not just functionally but also in a way that the kitchen doesn’t feel cramped, but rather well thought-out.

What helped me was clearly defining which items are used how often, so I could plan the cabinets specifically for that – for example, frequently used items placed lower or in pull-out drawers, and less frequently used items positioned higher.

It might also be worth considering using custom inserts in addition to the standard interior fittings. This gives you flexibility if you ever need to adjust the space differently.

Corner cabinets with carousels are essential. Also, base cabinets with full-extension drawers instead of simple doors. With Metod, 40–60cm (16–24 inches) cabinets are flexible; it’s better to have several smaller ones rather than a large one.

At the bottom, drawers should be deep boxes, while at the top, shallow compartments.

Here is a structured approach to assembling Ikea Metod cabinets for maximum storage capacity:

1. Planning: Measure the space accurately and use the Ikea kitchen planner to include all cabinet types (base cabinets, wall cabinets, tall cabinets).

2. Corner solutions: Use at least one corner carousel cabinet or a corner pull-out cabinet to make the best use of corner spaces.

3. Interior organization:
- Install internal pull-outs in base cabinets instead of fixed shelves.
- Use drawer inserts for cutlery and small kitchen utensils.
- Plan wire hanging baskets as additional storage layers.

4. Tall cabinets: Use tall cabinets with adjustable shelves or internal pull-outs for pantry storage.

5. Combination: Placing smaller cabinets side by side is often more spatially and structurally flexible.

6. Tip: Pay attention to standard cabinet widths of 20, 40, and 60 cm (8, 16, and 24 inches) to ensure modular compatibility.

Finally: Always make sure not to exceed the load capacity of the pull-outs and ensure a secure anchoring to the wall.

Jensson schrieb:
Corner solutions: Use at least one corner carousel cabinet or a corner pull-out cabinet to make the most of room corners.

I want to emphasize this point. Corner cabinets are often underrated, especially in the Metod series, because people assume corners are difficult to access anyway. However, modern pull-out systems offer surprisingly generous storage space and make access much easier.

Also, a note on height: For wall cabinets, definitely choose at least the 80cm (31.5 inches) versions. The taller options often provide better visibility and more room for spices, glasses, and so on.

Tip: Plan large drawers with dividers for dishes and glasses instead of just open shelves. Drawers make better use of the available space.