Cupboards and cabinets are at the heart of space management for every home. Especially kitchens, with their myriad equipment, pots and pans, spice jars and boxes of this and that, require carefully planned storage spaces.

While most modular kitchens come with a uniform finished look with well-planned kitchen cabinets, there is no reason why you cannot mix things up to avoid a blocky, boring appearance, and give a unique signature look to your kitchen.For example, do you have pretty kitchen crockery that you’d like to show off?

Alternatively, have you thought of a mixed approach, with a section of open shelves? This can work really well for small kitchens, creating a roomy look. If shelves are not an option, consider mirrors for cabinet doors, to create an illusion of space. The doors of the cabinets can be awkward to open and close in small kitchens, as they need quite some clearance room. Smart sliding doors solve that problem perfectly well.

To squeeze out the last drop of storage from really small kitchens, don’t be afraid to extend the cabinets all the way up to the ceiling. A step-stool, or a slim rolling ladder (why not?!) will solve the problem of reach, and look cool as well.

For a lot of people living in hot humid areas, the idea of completely closed kitchen cabinets doesn’t appeal, because closed doors may encourage odors. Why not create a farmhouse look with wire-fences or similar small metal mesh for the cabinet doors? This will help keep things airy and dry, and if flies are a problem, choose really fine mesh. Fabric curtains fitted inside the cabinet door frames will achieve the same thing, and can also add a splash of colour to your kitchen.

If cleaning is your thing, remember that most kitchen cabinets only require a sponge, some warm water and dish soap. Wooden cabinets will look great with an occasional wipe using white vinegar. For a really squeaky clean kitchen, elevate the base cabinets slightly, allowing you to clean underneath them.

A modular kitchen doesn’t have to be one-size-fits-all. With a little imagination, you can customise your kitchen cabinets to suit your needs, space and taste.