Kitchen corners can be tricky. While every inch of a kitchen matters, corner spaces are notoriously difficult to use efficiently. In many older kitchens (or even newer ones designed without intention) corner cabinets often end up becoming dark, hard-to-reach zones where items disappear for years at a time. You might find yourself crouching on the floor, reaching blindly into the depths of a lower cabinet, trying to retrieve a forgotten pan or appliance.
That’s why, when planning a remodel, it’s worth giving these corners the attention they deserve. With the right storage systems, these areas can go from wasted space to some of the most functional zones in your kitchen.
The Challenge with Standard Corner Cabinets
Traditional base or wall cabinets aren’t designed to handle corners well. Standard shelves meet at sharp angles, leaving a deep triangular space that’s difficult to access. The result is a corner that’s technically “storage” but practically useless. Without creative hardware or a specialized design, these areas quickly become cluttered or simply unused.
Top 4 Solutions
Lazy/Super Susans
One of the most reliable corner solutions is the lazy susan, or its upgraded cousin, the super susan. These rotating shelves make it easy to access every item. No more kneeling on the floor to reach the back corner.
At Russell Room Remodelers, we often recommend super susans that include a notch to fit neatly behind the corner door. This allows for full rotation while maintaining a clean, built-in look. It’s a simple yet elegant way to make sure the corner space is both functional and attractive.
Lazy susans and super susans offer simple ways to turn hard-to-reach corner storage into easily accessible space. A standard lazy susan is compact, easy to install, and ideal for smaller kitchens or upper corner cabinets. It spins smoothly on a central pole, bringing items from the back into view with just a turn, perfect for keeping pantry staples or dishes organized without much effort.
A super susan, on the other hand, takes the idea a step further. Built with a larger diameter and multiple tiers, it offers more storage and better organization for bigger kitchens or heavier cookware. Super susans are typically mounted on sturdy bearings (as opposed to the pole in a lazy susan) and often notched to fit neatly behind a corner door, creating a seamless, built-in look. While installation can be slightly more involved, the result is a durable, high-capacity solution that keeps your kitchen both tidy and efficient.
The Magic Corner
If you’re looking for something a little more sophisticated, a magic corner system might be the perfect fit. These cleverly engineered pull-out units use smooth, guided hardware to bring the entire contents of your cabinet out to meet you. Instead of rotating shelves, the trays glide out in a sequence, revealing every item without any bending or reaching.
Magic corners tend to be more expensive because they have more complex hardware, but the payoff is convenience, efficiency, and a sense of effortless design. The movement is quiet and graceful, and it works with you instead of against you.
Check out our video showing off one of our favorite Magic Corners!
Diagonal Drawers
For homeowners who want something unique, diagonal drawers offer an eye-catching alternative. Instead of a hinged corner door, the drawers cut across the corner diagonally, maximizing usable space in an unexpected way. They’re easy to access and visually striking, adding a sense of custom craftsmanship to the kitchen.
The trade-off is cost and complexity. Because these drawers are non-standard, they require custom construction and careful planning. They may also sacrifice a bit of total storage capacity compared to other options, but for the right kitchen, the look and convenience are worth it.
The Void Corner
Sometimes, the best solution is to do less. A void corner (where the corner area is simply closed off) can make sense when the layout allows for better storage elsewhere. By eliminating a hard-to-reach cabinet, you gain clean lines, larger drawers or pull-outs on either side, and an overall sleeker aesthetic.
The downside, of course, is the loss of potential storage space. But in kitchens where organization and flow take priority over sheer volume, a void corner can make the design feel intentional and uncluttered.
Making Every Corner Count
Corners may seem like small details, but they have a big impact on how a kitchen functions day-to-day. The right corner solution depends on your priorities, whether it’s maximizing storage, enhancing accessibility, or keeping the design clean and simple.
When we remodel kitchens at Russell Room Remodelers, we focus on creating spaces that look beautiful and work beautifully too, especially with smart use of every corner. We don’t cut corners, and neither should you. Tell us about your project using our Contact Card or calling 651-735-8367