Why You Should Choose Kitchen Drawers Over Cabinets, According to Interior Designers

When you plan a kitchen renovation, you don't just focus on style—another overarching goal is to make this space more functional. To do so, many homeowners have started replacing their lower kitchen cabinets with drawers. There are plenty of reasons why this is a smart idea: Not only do drawers offer additional storage and better accessibility for seniors and children alike, but they provide a cleaner aesthetic, too—and who doesn't love a seamless blend of form and function?

Not sure if this big switch is right for you? We asked interior designers to share more about this versatile kitchen renovation trend, from the (overwhelming) benefits to the things you should consider before you make the swap.

Improved Accessibility

How often have you squatted to reach that pesky pan lid all the way at the back of your kitchen cabinet? It isn't just annoying—deep cabinets can be tough on our back and knees. For aging adults or those with limited mobility, kitchen drawers allow for easy access to all contents, says Bernadette Cuaycong, the design manager at Block Renovation. Since you can pull the drawer out completely and reveal its contents, you can locate what you need ASAP—no digging or reaching necessary.

Increased Storage Space

If you need to store oversized countertop kitchen appliances when they're not in use—like blenders and air fryers—note that drawers often provide more storage space than cabinets. Because drawers lack a vertical divider in the middle (which most cabinets have), you can use every inch of space for your kitchen goods, says Cuaycong.

This is also key if you're working in a kitchen where space is tight. "You can store more items in a smaller drawer space, which can be particularly useful in smaller kitchens where space is at a premium," says Bridgette Caporaso, the owner and principal designer at Sketch Design Studio.

Customization Opportunities

Drawers offer more flexibility and customization potential than cabinets, says Caporaso. Most of the time, they can be adapted as your needs change—unlike cabinet shelves that only offer varying heights. "There are dozens of excellent organizers that can be used to tailor your storage needs, such as separate compartments for specific items, like cutlery, utensils, and spices—making it easier to locate items quickly," she says. "Typically, these organizers are easily removed or repositioned, allowing users to change the storage configuration as their needs evolve."

Family-Friendly

Have a little one at home eager to learn alongside you in the kitchen? Drawers make it easier for tiny hands to access tools, bowls, and more, says Natalie Rebuck, a principal designer at Re: Design Architects. "Parents will find that having drawers is easier for kids as they get older and start to get more involved with helping to cook and set the table," she says. "This also makes it easier for everyone to know where things are supposed to go. With a cabinet, kids might just have tossed things in and not put them back where they belong." 

Better Aesthetics

In addition to their ease of access and versatile organization solutions, drawers can often be more aesthetically pleasing; depending on their pulls and finishes, they can even enhance the kitchen's overall design. "In transitional settings, the use of drawers creates the appearance of fine furniture," Caporaso says. "In modern settings, drawers can streamline the appearance of seams, creating a clean, sophisticated look."

What to Consider Before Making the Switch

As with any design trend or home investment, it's essential to consider the pros and cons before you make a significant change. While drawers might make the most sense for your lifestyle needs, they do have a few drawbacks (pun intended). Here's what to consider before choosing drawers over cabinets for kitchen storage. 

Cost

Cost is one of the primary barriers when it comes to switching from cabinets to drawers, says Caporaso. Drawers are generally more expensive than traditional cabinets since they require more hardware and construction materials to build than cabinets do, she explains.

And while you can change the color of your cabinets on your own, interior upgrades require a professional. "Swapping out lower cabinets with drawers may require structural changes," Cuaycong says. "It is important to consult with a professional to ensure that the new drawers fit properly."

Weight Limits

Triple-check that your drawers can withstand your goods if you have many heavy copper pans, a few mortars, and several Dutch ovens. As Cuaycong warns, drawers may not be able to support as much weight as cabinets, so it is essential to check the carrying limitations of the drawer slides before making the switch.

Height of Stored Items

Mindy O'Connor, a principal designer at Melinda Kelson O'Connor Architecture & Interiors, says it's vital to measure your tallest kitchen appliances to make sure you have space to store oversized items that won't fit in a drawer. "Large specialty appliances like stand mixers or tall blenders will not fit in standard-height drawers," she says. "If those need a dedicated space in your kitchen, then leave a few appropriate cabinet spaces or a pantry or appliance garage to house them."