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Unused Fireplace for Kitchen Storage

We've seen lots of re-use ideas for nonworking fireplaces here at Apartment Therapy. But how about this one? Kitchen storage shelves. That's what's been installed in this cozy kitchen for a little additional storage without taking up useful floorspace:

 
 

The storage shelves in the fireplace are one space-saving solution put to work in this cute kitchen. Other ideas we're spotting:

  • An unlikely vertical storage piece (like a filing cabinet) in the kitchen.
  • Topping off the backsplash with a single open shelf. Why not make a material transition into a storage opportunity?
  • An inexpensive alternative to cabinetry: curtained storage. Fabric curtains are used both in the fireplace storage niche and under-counter for a little cover-up.

See more of this Comfortable Retro Kitchen at lovehome.co.uk.

Comments (5)

I don't think I could ever cover up a fireplace whether it was working or not. Fireplaces provide such an aesthetic value in my opinion.

posted by dmstudio on March 17th 2010 at 5:40pm
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Personally, I wouldn't want to cover up a fireplace...but for someone who does, this is a clever and smart idea. Sweet kitchen!

posted by junklover on March 17th 2010 at 6:44pm
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I've never thought of putting shelving in an unused fireplace!

The fireplace in my grandparents' house when I was growing up had a grate in front of it, and kids weren't allowed near it. I believe my Grandma put a picture of a donkey in it at some point.
And, cliched as it is, I've long been a fan of the "TV in the fireplace" idea. I mean, if it's closed off. Otherwise, that could be a recipe for disaster.

posted by bodicegoddess on March 18th 2010 at 9:36am
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covering a fireplace usually draws more attention to it, in my opinion.

posted by abc123 on March 18th 2010 at 10:18am
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That is the most ingenious idea. I hate non-working fireplaces just sitting there with no use except for looks; put them to work! It blends very nicely.

posted by cliokitty on March 18th 2010 at 3:14pm
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