ASHLEY NEFF HINKLE
Neff Designs
Kitchens have always been the heart of the home, and today they hold even more responsibility — hosting everything from meal prep and homework to entertaining and early-morning coffee rituals. As our routines expand, storage must evolve right alongside the design.
Working with homeowners across the Columbia River Gorge, I hear the same request again and again: better storage. Not just more space, but smarter solutions that simplify daily life, hide clutter, and flow seamlessly with the kitchen’s aesthetic.
Thoughtful Cabinetry in Action
This is where thoughtful cabinetry design comes in. One of my favorite tools is the Rev-A-Shelf pantry system, featured in the kitchen shown here. Behind what looks like a standard cabinet door lies a high-capacity pantry with pull-out shelves, door-mounted racks, and adjustable compartments. Dry goods, baking supplies, canned items, even water bottles — everything stays organized and within reach, maintaining a clean, elevated look.
We also tucked a pull-out trash-and-recycling unit beside the sink — one of the most-requested features in every kitchen I design. It keeps the mess out of sight and streamlines cleanup, proving that the best details often go unnoticed by guests but make everyday life easier.
When Storage Becomes Display
Not all storage has to hide. Glass-front cabinets and open shelves are perfect for showcasing everyday glassware or favorite ceramics and strike the ideal balance of beauty and function. In this project, a black glass-front cabinet anchors the far corner, complemented by light oak cabinetry and styled open shelves that add warmth and personality without sacrificing function.
Must-Have Storage Features
Some of today’s storage essentials I include in nearly every kitchen I design:
• Deep drawers for dishes and pots
• Vertical dividers for cutting boards and baking sheets
• Slim pull-out spice racks near the cooktop
• Charging drawers or hidden tech stations
• Full-height pantry cabinets or walk-in pantries with customizable shelving
Clients also love spaces tailored to their routines — beverage
centers for morning coffee, kid-friendly snack drawers, or dedicated baking zones with built-in organization. The goal is a kitchen that works hard behind the scenes while looking effortless.
Design That Lets Your Life Shine
Smart storage reduces visual noise, streamlines routines, and lets the design — finishes, views, and atmosphere — truly shine. Whether you’re building new or refreshing an existing space, prioritizing purposeful storage will elevate your kitchen every single day.
At Neff Designs, we create beautiful, livable kitchens that reflect how you live-right here in the Gorge.
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