Small Space Saver: Fold-Down Shelf

Take a look at this hinged panel. Looks slightly odd, eh? What's it doing in the kitchen? Well, take another look.

It's a foldaway shelf for a cookbook and tumbler of wine!

This brilliant small space saver was designed by Greg for his Austin bungalow kitchen. It's a tiny, nearly perfect kitchen, and this is just one of the many good ideas that caught our eye. We love how this folds away to allow free use of the countertop below it, as well as how it doesn't block the natural light even when down.

It's very inspiring; what other kitchen issues could be addressed with a simple hinge?

• See the whole tour here: House Tour: Greg and Laura's Space Maximizing Bungalow

Comments (4)

I noticed that right away in the house tour, and have been thinking about it ever since. What a good idea.

posted by Joan A. on September 3rd 2008 at 6:43am
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I love this! I could also envision a use for this in other rooms where counter or shelf space is at a premium - like the bathroom. I would love something like this to fold down and provide a place for my hairdryer, straightener etc. to rest while preparing for the day. There is never enough room on the edge of the bathroom sink : ).

posted by prometheanne on September 3rd 2008 at 7:33am
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i loved this in the house tour. i would do that in a heartbeat. you could cool pies on it with the window open :)

posted by akostalas on September 3rd 2008 at 10:17am
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Brilliant! And I love prometheanne's idea of putting one in the bathroom. We're just finishing up construction of our new living quarters, and suddenly I'm envisioning handy foldaway shelves everywhere! : )

posted by Farmgirl Susan on September 4th 2008 at 6:42am
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