Maximizing Kitchen Counters

One way of gaining additional space in the kitchen is by having work and snack counters disappear into the cabinets when not in use. These produce a surprising effect on guests who are always intrigued by such novelty designs.

There are several ways to achieve this disappering effect. First, the counter can swing in and out of a cabinet (much like a door). Second, the disappearing counter can slide in and out. Third, the counter can be hinged to fold over the existing counter top.

The swing-out snack counter can be built by cutting two surfaces to match the shape of the cabinet countertop. Both pieces can be finished with any material such as formica or linoleum. The snack counter is pivoted to the cabinet tops with countersunk bolts. The new top is set over it and secured only at the ends where it will not interfere with the movement of the swing-out snack counter.

The folding counter is made by building an extra top for the cabinets and finishing it on both top and bottom. It is hinged to the regular countertop top with simple door butt hinges.