Kitchen carts provide an attractive and versatile way to add to the function and décor of your food preparation area. The variety of free-standing units on the market ensures that whatever the particular requirements or constrictions of the space, an appropriate piece can be found either ready-made or custom ordered.
Rolling kitchen carts can be positioned wherever the work is being done, or wheeled out of the way when not needed. Wheeled carts vary in size and material of construction, including wood, stainless steel, aluminum, cast iron and plastic. A solid butcher block cart can be ideal for heavy duty tasks while a tiered plastic trolley can not only be an extra work surface at need but also a practical auxiliary unit for vegetable and fruit storage.
Wood kitchen carts may be constructed from solid woods, veneered wood or plywood. A variety of designs include both stationary and mobile cabinets, hutches and open storage shelves. Units can be custom-made in solid woods that complement built-in cabinets and other existing kitchen furniture. Plywood can be painted to complement the colors of décor or be decorated to match accessories.
The range of materials for tops and work surfaces includes butcher block, marble, granite and stainless steel. The material for the worktop can be ready-made or custom-ordered according to the functional and aesthetic requirements of the unit. Ready-made units are available in a range of materials and sizes that fulfill almost any functional, decorative or budgetary need. Laminated surfaces are usually the least expensive alternative. They are also, unfortunately, the least durable as well so cutting and food prep on these tops will require protective accessories. The up side to laminated tops is the amazing variety of color choices.
Stainless steel provides a sleek, clean look to a modern food preparation area and is becoming more popular by the second. A stainless steel kitchen cart with storage shelves provides a combination work and storage area that is easily cleaned and sanitized. A steel worktop with an inset butcher block cutting board creates a versatile work area. More elaborate configurations may include both upper and lower storage areas, heavy-duty hooks for storage of cooking vessels and large utensils, and drawers for small utensils.
Cast iron is a sturdy material that complements a variety of decorative themes. A cast iron mobile kitchen trolley, with a marble worktop and an upper storage area with hooks for hanging pots and pans, gives the feel of French farmhouse or Italian rustic decor. These pieces can help create an authentic farmhouse or country feeling to the room as well as being incredibly functional.
Kitchen islands can also be used to define interior space or aid in creating an efficient flow for food preparation, increasing the effective work area and also complementing the décor. Stationary islands may include sinks or hobs which augment built-in areas and add greatly to their functionality. To help break up the look and blend the unit into the area a small eating area on a large island can be accessorized with chrome or art deco-style kitchen stools, creating a “mini bistro” for quick meals and snacks.
Kitchen island carts provide the best of both options. A small unit with a butcher block top can be wheeled up adjacent to a stationary counter when needed to extend preparation areas. Shelving underneath the worktop can be used for storage, allowing easy access to appliances and utensils that may not be needed everyday.
Having a dedicated space for baking or pastry preparation is a joy to a serious cook. Configuring carts as appliance centers provides a specialized work area and avoids having to move heavy electrical appliances from counter to counter for occasional use. Electrical plugs or strips can be wired into the unit, or the worktop sides can be fitted with inset GFCI electrical units for blenders and mixers. Storage shelves within the unit can house appliances on pull out shelves when not in use and upper shelves are handy storage for favorite cookbooks, scales or other often-used utensils.
Whether used for storage or as a dedicated preparation center, kitchen carts really help to augment workspace, making food preparation more efficient and enjoyable.