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

The main problem for owners of small apartments is the lack of space, especially in the kitchen. In this room, difficulties constantly arise when placing dishes, utensils, household appliances and modern electrical appliances. To rectify the situation by making the housewife’s life more comfortable, a magic corner for the kitchen was developed that allows you to effectively use one of the cabinets. The multifunctional system will not only save space, but also facilitate the process of cooking, cleaning the set, and most importantly, it will significantly reduce the time it takes to find the necessary utensils.

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

A small kitchen is equipped with a compact L-shaped set, which houses all the large dishes (pans, pots), household items, and groceries. Even if these items can be easily placed in ordinary kitchen cabinets, when searching for what you need, you often have to take out almost everything, especially if the right thing is in the far corner at that moment. It takes a lot of time to extract content and load back, or rather, to do meaningless actions. Compact multifunctional furniture in a small kitchen helps organize the space of a large cabinet from a simple set, as well as save space and reduce the time of searching for items.

This amazing magical corner includes a structure consisting of two baskets with a hanging mechanism. One of them is firmly fixed inside the cabinet, the other moves out when the door is opened. The baskets are fixed in a special way: when the furniture opens, the first niche appears, which is fixed to the facade, and then the second one slides out. This gives access to all corners of the cabinet, so you can easily find and get the necessary item.

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

Why choose storage boxes from IKEA

It’s not just the material from which the storage box is made that can play a decisive role. Many buyers focus on the manufacturer.

IKEA storage boxes have many advantages over other manufacturers; the manufacturer's products are of high quality:

IKEA uses natural, environmentally friendly materials, taking care of the environment and human health.
All of the manufacturer’s products have an elegant design, and even boxes for storing small items are no exception.
Careful design and functionality. Since the manufacturer takes into account the wishes of the customer, a wide range of containers has been produced. Thanks to this, everyone will be able to find a suitable product for themselves.
The price in the store is affordable. There are several categories of packaging based on price; there are both cheap and expensive options.
In the catalog you can see the entire range with photographs from different angles. All detailed information, from cost to size and composition of the product, is also presented on the website.

The IKEA box catalog is periodically updated, and there are promotions on products. The Swedish manufacturer provides a guarantee both for purchases on the store’s website and for purchases in real time.

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;
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.

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.

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 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.

How to choose

But when buying a “magic corner”, you should focus not only on the brand, but also on other important parameters. Be sure to consider the size of your room.

Expert opinion

Smirnova Ekaterina Anatolevna

7 years of experience in interior design, professional architect

The corner should fit well into your set and not take up additional space when opened. Reviews from those who have already bought similar furniture will help you understand whether the corner you have chosen is of high quality.

Well, if you plan to save on the services of craftsmen, then make sure that the corner comes with a simple and understandable installation diagram.

A magic corner for the kitchen is amazing furniture with an interesting mechanism that allows you to save a lot of free space.

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.

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.

Advantages and disadvantages

Before visiting such popular stores as Ikea, Duslar, McMart or MDM Kit in search of a magical corner, I advise you to study its current advantages and disadvantages. Perhaps you will change your mind about the purchase and give preference to another option. Although this is unlikely.

Remember that the design, dimensions, and ease of use largely depend on the quality of the product. Just don't be alarmed if the manufacturer is China. It’s worth starting from the brand, since almost everything is now made in China, and you need to come to terms with this.

The main advantages that a magic corner or petal has are the following:

Possibility to significantly save space;
A significant increase in the level of order in the kitchen;
Wide functionality and versatility;
Ease of use, installation and operation;
Excellent reliability. But provided that you have chosen a good manufacturer;
Long service life.

Most designs, and far from the most expensive ones, can withstand about 15 kilograms. This allows you to place heavy cauldrons and pots there and not worry that something will bend or suddenly break.

However, there are some disadvantages. The main one is installation restrictions. Not all cabinets allow the installation of corners. This is only permissible for cabinets with a minimum size of 50x90 cm. If you have smaller furniture, you will not be able to install a corner.