Charge It Up: Kitchen Cabinet Electronics

Kitchen remodels are a regular project here at Meadowlark Design+Build. Our clients often call it the “hub of the home”—the gathering place when guests are over, the kids’ homework stop, and the drop zone for mail, magazines, and items in the “I-don’t-have-a-spot-for-this-thing-yet-so-it’s-going-here” category.

Because of the kitchen’s centrality to the home, cell phones, tablets, and other electronic devices are regular visitors with their source of power a typical wall outlet at the end of a cabinet run. But is there a way to plan for electronics in the kitchen? We thought so. Check out these twists on your standard duplex.

Intentionally Out in the Open

Using an USB charger combination outlet offers flexibility in your kitchen. The tradition duplex plug-in is useful for appliances and laptops, while the added USB ports allows cell phones and tablets to be charged without the bulky adapter. The simple design provides a clean look and easily replaces an existing outlet.

Hide It Away

For inactive devices just in need of charging, consider installing an outlet in the back of a drawer. Drawer outlets fit into shallow drawers. A designated under-the-counter location prevents water damage and hides the web of cords accompanying charging devices, reducing visual clutter. Make sure your electrician allows enough wiring for the drawer to open. Docking Drawer has made a business out of it! 

We have been customizing drawers in kitchens and baths to accommodate electrical outlets and USB ports – making the perfect place to keep all of the cords hidden.

Hang It Above

If you plan on using your device while cooking in the kitchen, try an undercabinet electronic charging system. Undercabinet electronic charging systems provide practical electrical requirements: clean, off-the-counter organization and display of a cell phone or iPad for ease of use. Installed at the rear of wall cabinets, these systems can offer puck or linear undercabinet lighting, outlets, and USB ports.

Are you overrun by wires in your kitchen? Try one of these methods or give us a call. We’d love to help you plan your device storage.

By Katie McGillivray