It can often feel as though there is never enough space to hold everything you need in foodservice operations. One easy way to create more usable space for storage is to utilize the walls and areas above workstations. By taking advantage of vertical space, you open up the other kitchen areas while organizing your supplies.
This may sound difficult to do, but the reality is with the right tools using vertical space is extremely easy to work into your kitchen plan. Here, the Metro experts will break down the techniques they have used to create vertical storage solutions for every kitchen area.
Tip # 1
Utilize wall space. One of the most underutilized areas of the kitchen is the wall. Wall space often gets ignored when space is being mapped out. Those areas above work tables and random walls with nothing on them are great places for utensils and shelving to be placed. By utilizing the walls, materials remain within an arm’s reach without taking up space on essential work areas. Smartwall is one product that can be placed above work areas that can hold utensils and pots without the use of important workspace.
Tip # 2
Pair work areas and storage for a more efficient work area. By pairing your worktable with additional storage within an arm’s reach, you limit the amount of extra effort staff puts in walking back and forth between their workstation and the area where tools are kept. This optimization of processes can be highly beneficial when designing a workstation. To achieve this, look for workstations with additional cantilevered shelves. Adding cantilever shelving options are a great way to keep supplies organized while also keeping them close to where they are used. Cantilevered workstations have been used to hold pots, pans, and other supplies right above the table they will be used.
Tip # 3
Use specially-built shelving. One easy way to take advantage of vertical space is by adding a shelving unit placed over other holding areas like carts and bins to create additional vertical storage without taking up extra floor space. This can be accomplished with the use of three-sided frames. Three-sided frames create a stable lower area to store cabinets, carts, and other everyday items while also making it possible to build a multitier shelving unit on top of them. These additional shelves provide an organized area where supplies can be held without disrupting other kitchen areas.
Tip # 4
Make sure everything has a home. One of the best ways to ensure that a kitchen is organized and remains organized is by simply planning out where every item will be used and building storage around that plan. Instead of holding items like spices in a separate area, it invests in a spice rack that attaches directly to worktables. Ensuring that every item in the kitchen is placed with intent makes it easier for staff to maintain organization. By mixing this form of organization and vertical forms of storage, you create an ideal workflow for your team to increase productivity.