Magic corner for the kitchen: all about choosing, installing and using a smart pull-out mechanism

Hi all! Many owners of small apartments and compact kitchens have one common problem. This is a lack of space. You can install a large set, but it creates additional discomfort. That’s why a magical kitchen corner comes to the rescue.

Some people are hearing about this for the first time. Others have heard, but still do not understand what a magic corner is, why it is needed and what its magic is. In practice, installing such an element, which is most often installed under the sink, has a number of advantages. This significantly expands the capacity of the kitchen furniture without creating additional load.

The point is to use the available space wisely. In a small kitchen, a magic corner can become simply irreplaceable. But even in large kitchens, the corner is used very often. Let's talk about it. Let's find out what it is, how to install it yourself, etc.

What does a “magic corner” look like?

“Magic”, “smart” or “miracle corner” is a design of two baskets that is installed in the lower corner cabinet:

one basket is attached to the facade - frontal;
the other basket moves inside the cabinet - mobile.

Moreover, from the outside, such a cabinet is no different from an ordinary one. But when it opens, the clever mechanism of the magic corner in the kitchen is activated:

first, the basket attached to the facade extends and slides out to the side;
then the second basket comes out.

This way you will gain access to the most difficult to reach places in the cabinet and easily find the item you need. Smooth sliding of the baskets is ensured by high-quality fittings (guides and closers).

There are both left- and right-hand mechanisms, so be sure to check which way your corner cabinet door opens before purchasing.

What is this corner and what is its magic?

A unique storage system that allows you to make maximum use of the internal space of corner cabinets and cabinets - that’s what a magic corner is.
With its help, it is easy to place the necessary items even in absolutely “dead” areas of cabinet furniture. But the most magical thing is that it’s easier to get them out of there without dumping all the contents of the cabinet. All these miracles are the merit of mechanical folding and roll-out systems on which various baskets and sections are attached. They contain kitchen utensils, and when the door is closed, the loaded structure itself folds compactly and hides in a corner cabinet. If you look at it through the glass facade, you can see how dishes in several tiers occupy almost the entire internal space of the module. And when you open the door again, the magic corner attached to it will immediately follow, folding into separate baskets. With this clever device, you can see and easily reach everything that is usually hidden in the farthest corners of the closet. Isn't it a miracle?

See also: Let's get to know the family of china cabinets

Advantages of the “miracle corner”

The name of this retractable system speaks for itself. This “miracle of modern technology” allows you to solve the problem of lack of space in small kitchens, looks stylish, and is easy to install, which you can do yourself. In general, the “magic corner” has many advantages:

rational use of space . In one basket you can store large utensils - for example, pots, pans, a mixer, a blender. In the other - smaller ones, mugs, bowls, glasses. Thanks to this division, order will always reign in the closets, and the necessary utensils will be found in a second;
strength - the system can withstand heavy loads. The shelf that is attached to the facade can withstand up to 7 kg, and the internal one - up to 15 kg;
versatility, various types of configurations to suit the needs of the owners. As already mentioned, there are mechanisms with right and left opening. It is possible to equip the baskets with additional sections for small items. You can also choose the “carousel” system, in which rotating shelves are installed instead of baskets;
ease of installation - you can install the magic corner with your own hands in a ready-made cabinet in the kitchen. You do not have to dismantle and completely change the corner cabinet;
long service life . Good manufacturers do not skimp on the quality of material for fittings, which do not deteriorate or rust even in conditions of constant humidity and temperature changes;
neat storage of dishes . Thanks to the clear placement of kitchen utensils, the risk of damaging fragile elements such as the Teflon coating of a frying pan or porcelain dish is extremely low. The smooth movement of the magic corner does not allow the dishes to “roll” around the basket, which prevents scratches.
noiselessness _ Thanks to the closers, the structure moves out and back in smoothly and silently, and thanks to special latches, the baskets do not collide under any circumstances;
can be used not only in floor cabinets. The retractable corner can be placed not only in the lower cabinet in the kitchen, but also in a wall cabinet or in cargo;
stealth . One of the reasons why such corners are called magic is that despite the size of the baskets and the complexity of the mechanism, the magic does not reveal itself when the door is closed;
budget. If you don’t have a lot of free money, you can select the baskets yourself and install them.

Thus, the miracle shelves can be filled to your heart's content with various kitchen utensils. Fittings and baskets are usually made of durable, high-quality steel with anti-corrosion chrome plating, so they are difficult to damage and will not bend over time.

However, keep in mind that shelves that are attached to the facade have the smallest load capacity, so it is better not to overload them.

There were also some negative aspects. For example, if the cabinet is small - less than 50 by 90 cm, then the system, although magical, will still not fit into such an instance.

Photo of a convenient storage system under the sink

Main characteristics

A real salvation for a tiny set is a smart kitchen corner. What is it? The structure is placed inside a box, most often a corner one, as it has greater capacity. It consists of two baskets, one of which is attached to the base of the facade, and the second is installed inside. When you open the cabinet door, the entire structure slides out.

This idea was created for kitchens with a small area, which is understandable. However, nothing prohibits installing a magic cabinet in a large kitchen. This is very convenient in functional terms.

Peculiarities! The design is best suited for a corner cabinet. It is spacious and will accommodate larger baskets. This magical cabinet is ideal for a corner kitchen.

About magic

The magic of the cabinet begins with the fact that outwardly it does not stand out in any way, but once you open the door, everything will become clear. The main feature is that it makes it easier to find dishes. When you open the cabinet, the basket installed on the front will slide out first, and then the one inside. This way, all content will be visible.

There is no need to turn all the dishes upside down or reach into the farthest corner for the desired item. Access to any corner of the cabinet is completely open.

In addition to the main advantage, the kitchen magic corner has several more:

Optimization and saving of internal space. Order in the kitchen will be ensured, as all utensils will have storage space. One basket can hold pots, and the second can hold small kitchen utensils.
Easy to use and install. The magic locker is easy to install, which eliminates the need to seek help from specialists.
Versatility. The Magic Corner is a versatile storage space thanks to its customizable options. If the design is supplemented with compartments, you can place kitchen appliances or small accessories in them.
Strength and durability. Due to the fact that the structure is made of steel rods and wires, it is highly durable. A special galvanic coating protects the metal from corrosion and deformation. The shockproof magic corner will be an excellent place to store expensive kitchen utensils.

Reference. The design can withstand high loads - from 7 to 15 kg. This means that you can safely place heavy frying pans and pots in it without fear of the baskets breaking.

Despite the large number of advantages, the magic mechanism has one drawback. Its installation is possible if the cabinet is at least 50 cm deep and no more than 90 cm wide.

Don't worry that the baskets will collide during use. The design is thought out to the smallest detail and is equipped with a special lock. And closers ensure silent and easy sliding of baskets.

There are options for both right-handed and left-handed mechanisms, depending on where the corner is located. They are also divided into two parts, one of which does not move. Designs of this type come with the possibility of full or partial extension.

Functionality

Multifunctionality, the ability to accommodate a large number of kitchen utensils, and space saving allow us to call the corner system truly magical. The useful properties of this design include:

storage optimization provided by the design itself - several shelves located at different levels;
placement of heavy utensils - up to 15 kg on the bottom shelf, up to 7 kg - on the top. The magic system allows you not to reach for such heavy objects into the very depths of the closet, but simply take them out of a pull-out shelf or basket;
content protection . The design has excellent shock resistance, and more often than not, good closers that will keep the most fragile dishes and even electrical equipment in new condition.

Design options

with full extension. When you open such a cabinet, the shelves slide out completely and the body remains completely empty. For this option, you will need a certain amount of free space - so that baskets or shelves have room to move out, so it is recommended for a spacious kitchen;
Read also: Decorating the wall above the sofa: 130 ideas for the living room + photos of the most interesting solutions for what to hang, how to decorate and decorate
with partial extension. This is also a common and practical option. The shelves attached to the front will roll out completely, while the internal shelves will roll out halfway, but will remain in the closet. This will save some space, while you will be able to reach items located in the inner basket;
carousel. An interesting option is when, when the door is opened, the shelves do not slide out, but rotate around their axis, like on a display case. This makes it convenient to store round objects: pots, jars, plates. Sometimes such cabinets do not have a door, which adds a little elegance to the interior. Of course, it is not pots that are stored on such an open carousel, but glasses or wine glasses. The maximum number of shelves is three;
combined. A combination of different types of sections, for example, one shelf moves out and the other rotates around its axis;
vertical. The most compact option that can be placed in a narrow high rack. Vertical shelves are made between cabinets, next to the refrigerator or wall. It is convenient to store jars of spices, oils, cereals, etc. here.

Depending on the mounting method:

the system is attached to the cabinet door;
the system is attached to the cabinet body.

Although the different designs are all made of chrome-plated steel, they can all look completely different in appearance. For example, if the magic corner will hang above the sink, then you can choose narrow baskets and make the door out of glass. In this version, the content will also play the role of decoration. You can put beautiful jars with spices in the first row.

And the vertical magic corner itself looks completely different when compared with its analogues.

Main types

Folding storage systems are quite diverse, and today you can buy fittings of any design:

With full extension. When the door is opened, all the cells move out of the bowels of the cabinet, leaving the body empty. With this layout, as shown in the photo, you can take any item from the shelves almost without bending over. But it is necessary that the kitchen itself is spacious enough. The price of such models starts from 16 thousand rubles and is lost somewhere in the sky-high heights of 40 thousand and above.
With partial extension. In this case, the baskets attached to the facade will be in your sight, and the internal ones will simply move out of the “dead” zone, giving you access to the utensils stored on them. A convenient option for small kitchens and cabinets with installed sinks. The price starts from 8-12 thousand.
Carousel. Most often, these models are placed in wall-mounted corner cabinets. Here the baskets do not move out, but rotate around an axis (photo). They are very convenient for storing utensils and objects with a round bottom.
Combined system – a multifunctional combination of withdrawable and rotary sections. Designed for large cabinets.
Vertical corner. This retractable design, on the contrary, is compact and can be mounted either on its own or inside a cabinet up to 40 cm wide. The design of individual sections of the corner may differ from one manufacturer to another. On sale there are wire baskets, shelves with enclosing sides and even cells for small utensils. So, if you wish, you can assemble your own magical corner from the necessary elements.

What fittings are used?

The fittings play an even more important role than baskets or shelves, since it determines how smoothly the extension will occur, and how long the magic corner will last. When choosing such a system, you need to pay attention to three points :

Ball mechanism . Thanks to it, sections can be opened so silently that no one will even notice it. This is a simple and fast mechanism with which nothing can happen even over time - if we talk about high-quality models.
Closers . This detail ensures smooth movement of baskets and shelves. This need arose due to the fact that the shelves are heavily loaded, so careless handling of them can lead to wear of the mechanism. Closers prevent this problem. In addition, they protect the dishes - even if you push the basket hard to close, the closer will work and roll it up as smoothly as possible.
Retainer . It is this that prevents the shelves from touching and colliding.

If these three elements of fittings are of the highest quality, then the miracle corner for the kitchen will last for decades.

What is

A kitchen corner cabinet with an L-shaped furniture set has always been insufficiently convenient. It can accommodate a huge amount of dishes, household appliances, and kitchen appliances, but removing them can be quite problematic. The mechanism that is built inside the corner cabinet made it functional. Hence the name “magic” or “miracle corner”. It is based on a retractable system that allows you to use previously unused cabinet space.

The housewife does not waste time searching for the necessary things, but simply uses two (sometimes more) hanging sections. They can be mounted on the inside of the facade and inside the cabinet itself, move out together with the door to the right or left, and rotate inside. All mechanisms have closers, ensuring silent movement and smooth closing of the doors. Features of the kitchen corner include:

ease of installation and ease of operation;
convenient compartments for small and large kitchen items and utensils;
the design allows you to easily reach any, even the smallest thing and make maximum use of the entire cabinet space;
The mechanism is well thought out and protects stored household appliances from damage.

The models of magic corners can be different in appearance: angular, located at the bottom of the headset, and vertical. The latter does not have to be attached from the edge; it can also be mounted in the upper part of the front panel between the hanging shelves. This design also has a mobile base and is equipped with hanging shelves, nets, and circular carousels. In addition, you can install a magic corner using the space under the sink. But in this option, you should take into account communication pipes and choose a special door opening mechanism.

How to make your own kitchen from furniture panels, instructions

What should you consider when choosing?

Select. Focus on reviews of a specific manufacturer and the features of your kitchen set.
If you chose a left-hand mechanism, make sure that the cabinet door opens to the left; and if it is right-handed, then the door should open, respectively, to the right.
Decide on the purpose of the corner - its type and configuration depends on this. If you plan to store large items there, then large mesh baskets are suitable; for small items you should choose a fine mesh mesh or solid metal shelves.
It is necessary to select the mechanism of the withdrawable system itself. For small kitchens, the best solution would be a system with a partial extension, but for a large cabinet in a large kitchen - a corner with a full extension mechanism.
If you decide to buy and install a smart corner yourself, make sure that it comes with clear, detailed instructions.
Do not forget about the maximum load weight. If the baskets are overloaded, then over time the entire mechanism may fail. It is better to place heavy items on the bottom shelf.
In addition to weight, you need to pay attention to the dimensions of the system and the existing floor cabinet. The structure must fit completely, but at the same time not create obstacles to movement or inconvenient access to the refrigerator or kitchen door when extended. Do not forget that the minimum width and depth of a floor cabinet for a magic corner for the kitchen is 90 and 50 centimeters, respectively.

Types and range

A magic corner can be chosen for any kitchen. The range of designs is quite wide. They all differ in the type of basket extension mechanism. Let's look at the most popular types of corners:

Full extension is the most convenient option. Thanks to this design, the baskets are completely retractable from the cabinet. All contents are visible, and finding the desired item is not difficult. The only condition for installing such a corner is a spacious kitchen. The price of models starts from 16 and ends at 40 thousand rubles.
Partial extension. The design extends only halfway and does not take up much space. For small kitchens this option is more successful. Outside the cabinet there will be a basket attached to the door, and the rest will remain inside. As a result, access to basic things will be open. The price of models varies from 8 to 12 thousand rubles.
Carousel is a design without retractable baskets. Kitchen items can be placed in any compartment and easily accessed, as the carousel rotates around its axis. The model has an interesting appearance and, when opened, will be an excellent decor for the kitchen. It is better to store round containers in it: pots and jars.
The combined system combines withdrawable and rotary sections. Designed for large cabinets and spacious kitchens. Accommodates a variety of kitchen utensils: from boxes with household appliances to cutting boards.
A vertical corner is the most compact option. Can fit inside a cabinet up to 40 cm wide. The corner consists of several built-in drawers located inside the cabinet. The configuration of sections varies from manufacturer to manufacturer. Baskets can be made of wire or with enclosing sides, and they are also supplemented with sections for small utensils. If you wish, you can create your own unique corner.

DIY installation

When purchasing, you need to check for instructions for the corner. There, the assembly and installation process is described in the most detail and with individual features. In general, it is not anything complicated, so you can easily do it with your own hands. Typically, the sequence of actions when assembling a right-hand corner is as follows:

Installing the support block on the inside right side of the headset.
Attach the locking lever to the front edge and push it to the side until it clicks.
Assemble the retractable rear frame (support, lever, ball mechanism, frame, guide slide);
Install the guide slide;
Pull out the retractable frame and fix it in the lever. Insert the slide until the locking sleeve clicks;
Fix the support on the panel and attach it to the retractable frame.

In the video you can see a visual installation of a magic corner for the kitchen.

Vibo – Installation of the magic corner Smart Corner

All movements must be smooth and careful, without excessive effort, otherwise there is a risk of damaging or pinching the mechanism. The left-hand corner is assembled in the same way.

If you are not confident in your own abilities, you can contact a specialist in assembling magic corners. This way the process will go faster, and the result will be excellent.

What can you keep in a magic corner?

Fantasy is not limited here:

pots, pans, baking dishes, baking sheets, plates, glasses, glasses, cutting boards;
small household appliances: blender, toaster, mixer, meat grinder, juicer, etc.;
detergents, cleaning products, laundry detergents;
food, spices, preservation;
kitchen textiles - tablecloths, towels.

You can store anything. The main thing is not to exceed the kilogram limit set by the manufacturer.

Magic corner under the sink

Under the kitchen sink there is often a lot of free space that can be used to store various detergents, washing powder, rags and sponges.

You can also put a retractable system with drawers here - just so that it does not touch the siphon and pipes. It is recommended to install a fully retractable magic corner mechanism and a door that opens 95 degrees under the sink.

Related article: How to choose the perfect corner vanity unit?

Do not forget that the area under the sink may have high humidity. This means that you should choose high-quality and moisture-resistant materials for the magic corner - this will help avoid corrosion in the future, extending the life of the product.

Rules for choosing and caring for a corner

The first thing you need to know when choosing a magic corner for the kitchen is its purpose. The size and shape of the baskets depend on what utensils will be stored in the cabinet. For large dishes, you can choose baskets with mesh and large rods, and for smaller dishes, vice versa.
Particular attention should be paid to the extension mechanism. If there is enough free space next to the corner, a full extension will do. If the kitchen is small and you need to save space, use a partial extension. This corner will look more like a traditional closet.

The third important rule is that you need to take into account the maximum weight of the cookware. In order for the product to last a long time, you need to take care of it and not overload the baskets. Larger dishes should be stored in the lower basket, and smaller utensils should be placed in the upper basket.

Important! The internal basket can withstand 12-13 kg, and the hinged one is much smaller - about 5 kg.

Pay attention to the contents and packaging. All parts must be in place. The most important thing is the presence of instructions. It is not difficult to install a corner on your own, but without detailed instructions the process may take a long time.

An important nuance of placing a kitchen corner (especially in small kitchens) is its installation under the sink. Due to the small area of the room, this method is the most successful. However, you need to take into account the location of pipes and siphons: they can complicate the process of extending the baskets, so preference should be given to full extension with a maximum door opening of 95 degrees. Such a mechanism will fit perfectly into the kitchen dimensions and will help to perfectly organize the space.

When installing a corner under the sink, it is imperative to use high-quality and moisture-resistant materials. The service life and operation of the product depends on this.

Leading manufacturers

Let's consider the most famous players in the market of furniture fittings and retractable systems:

Kessebohmer (Germany). The fittings from this manufacturer are smooth and silent. Thanks to the Softstop mechanism, one small push is enough for both shelves to move into an accessible position. The special Anti Slip coating prevents items from sliding on the surface of the baskets when moving;
Bloom (Austria). One of the most famous manufacturers of furniture fittings (closers, pull-out mechanisms, hinges, etc.). His own development is the Blumotion shock absorption system, which ensures silent and smooth closing of cabinets. Blum fittings for a smart corner in the kitchen can withstand up to 65 kg of weight, are highly durable and have a laconic design.
Rejs (Poland). Produces magic corners that attach to both the door and cabinet body. Loading capacity of products: 25–35 kg;
Vauth-Sagel (Germany). Since 1962, the company has been producing retractable storage systems, bottle holders and other kitchen accessories in different price categories: from economy to premium. The service life of the products is at least 10 years - Wout Zagel focuses on the stable operation of the mechanisms;
Hettich (Germany). Hettich is the largest family-owned company producing furniture fittings. In addition to magic corners, they produce a variety of hinges, metaboxes, tandemboxes, dryers, containers, baskets, bottle holders;
Boyard (Russia). The manufacturer Boyard offers a wide range of furniture components, fittings (rollers, supports, fastenings, hinges), extension systems for magic corners at affordable prices. SWIMBOX, B-box and SWIMBOX PRO systems, synchronization and full extension mechanisms ensure smooth movement of drawers and comfortable access to their contents;
Siro (Austria). For more than 60 years, the company has been producing products that are popular in Russia. Everything about their products is perfect - both functionality and appearance. At the same time, the brand does not stop there and is constantly expanding its line. For example, several years ago, products made from rare metal alloys appeared in the collection;
Agoform (Germany). A recognizable brand on the market. Its peculiarity is that the components are made not only of metal, but also of rubber and plastic, which ensures smoother running of the baskets and a longer service life. In addition, Agoform boasts a wide range.

When choosing a magic corner for your kitchen, take a closer look at the brands listed above - and purchase products only in trusted stores. It is not worth saving on baskets and components, since there is a risk of running into a fake at a tempting price. The service life of such a specimen and its appearance a year later will not please the owners.