Drawers vs. Doors: The Storage Solution Every Kitchen Needs

Kitchens

January 13, 2026

If there’s one thing our kitchen design clients can all agree on, it’s this: drawers are a game changer. More and more homeowners are choosing drawers instead of doors for their lower cabinets, and once you’ve lived with them, it’s easy to understand why.

Mountain Project Kitchen by Highland Home Design Company

Drawers make kitchen storage effortless. Instead of getting down on your knees to reach a heavy pot or that Dutch oven tucked in the back, you can simply pull out a drawer and have everything within reach. They’re perfect for storing cookware, Pyrex, mixing bowls, and everyday dishes. With drawers, you can see the full scope of what you have, which makes it easier to stay organized and finally let go of those items you haven’t used in years. Out of sight really is out of mind, but drawers help keep everything in view and in order.

Clubfield Kitchen Project by Highland Home Design Company

Of course, with all that convenience comes a little more cost. Drawers are generally more expensive to build than standard doors, which means it’s important to plan your cabinetry layout with your budget in mind. We often recommend including drawers in key high-use areas like next to the range or near prep zones, and using doors in other areas such as the back of an island or under the sink.

Mountain Project by Highland Home Design Company

If you’re not planning a full kitchen renovation, you still have great options. Many existing cabinets can be retrofitted with pull-out sliders or tray systems behind the doors. These allow you to slide out your pots, pans, and dishes just like a drawer, giving you much of the same convenience without replacing your cabinetry. It’s an easy, budget-friendly upgrade that can make a big difference in the way your kitchen functions day to day.

Via Pinterest

The right mix of drawers, doors, and smart pull-outs can give you both the functionality you want and the look you love, all while staying within your budget.

We’re sharing a few examples in this post from kitchens we’ve designed, along with some that continue to inspire us. Each one shows how thoughtful storage planning can make everyday life in the kitchen more beautiful and more functional.

If you’re dreaming of a kitchen that’s both beautiful and built for the way you live, we’d love to help you design it. Save this post for future inspiration, and when you’re ready to begin your own project, reach out to us to start the conversation.

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