When it comes to the tools of the trade, kitchen must-haves are different for everyone. Gadgets and appliances are made to simplify everyday tasks. We’ve compiled a list of the most undervalued kitchen tools and shared the different uses found for each of them. Keeping in mind the importance of space and design in your kitchen, these innovative ideas for everyday gizmos make the most of your time and space.

The Basics

Slow closing cabinet doors. No more slamming, rattling or open doors like in the old days. Just tap them and they close.

Oversized light fixtures. Adding a modern twist, these decorative and bright additions combine drama with functionality. Available in an array of colors, textures and fabrics, these fixtures can be as wide as two feet in diameter.

Glass and mirror backsplash. A good backsplash can make the kitchen. Smoked, mosaic or subway, nothing opens up a room and creates texture and atmosphere like the right pattern.

The toaster oven. If you’re going to use up counter space, it might as well be with something that does more than make toast. When there’s no room to spare in the oven or what you’re cooking is too small to fire up the big range, the size is perfect. So for baking, broiling or just plain toasting, a good toaster oven is an understated addition to any counter.

The stick blender. Handheld, light and easy to use, the immersion blender can whip up everything from scrambled eggs to soups or sauces. There is also no chance of a burn when transferring scalding soup to a traditional blender. Use caution if something gets stuck in the blade; immersion blender injuries are more common than you might think. Always unplug the device before freeing lodged food from the blade.

The mini-chopper. Easy to use and easy to clean, this handy little guy is designed for smaller tasks, making quick prep work a breeze. Reasonably priced and user friendly, this is a must have for any kitchen.

For The Cooking Enthusiast

The Stove. We know everyone has one, but the options available for those who love to cook are more in your price range than you might think. Fiver burner, six burner, dual fuel, induction, electric or gas – there is a stove out there for everyone.

KitchenAid stand mixers come in every color imaginable and are hands down favorites for cooks everywhere. Attachments include a grain mill, a food grinder, pasta and ice cream makers to mention just a few.

Smart Storage Ideas to Make The Most of Your space

The pullout cabinet. No more groping in the dark. Just open the door and pull out the tray. With options like lazy Susan or standard, it keeps everything organized and in place and allows you to use every inch of storage available, getting the full value of your purchase.

Pan organizers corral your frying pans inside a small cabinet, making great use of vertical space. It can even be used to organize lids and shallow casserole dishes.

Kitchen wrap organizer. If you’re short on space and looking to free up a kitchen drawer and organize food wrapping, this rack can easily hold four rolls of plastic, foil, or wax paper and two large boxes of Ziploc bags. The rack can be hung inside a cabinet door and holds on tight even when loaded with products.

Drawer organizers. Whether built into your cabinets or purchased separately, pull outs, bins and organizers can be placed in just about every drawer and cabinet space. Great for organizing, these durable additions can create custom compartments for whatever you’re storing.

Keeping It Simple

When designing your kitchen plan, you design in line with your life. Simple things like making storage accessible and being realistic with the amount of space you have can avoid common mistakes. Combine beauty and functionality to maximize storage. Don’t overdesign too much, leave some room to breathe! Make your kitchen work for your style and needs, no matter what the size.