A Guide to Kitchen Internal Drawers
Kitchen internal drawers are a nifty solution for adding extra kitchen storage to your existing space without changing the appearance of your kitchen. Sometimes called hidden drawers or double drawers, internal drawers for kitchen cabinets fit seamlessly into your kitchen design by adding additional tiers of hidden drawer space behind a single cabinet door.
Why choose internal drawers?
Internal drawers have many benefits beyond creating more space for storage. This simple layer of engineering can optimise how you use your kitchen and contribute to its visual appeal as well.
If you require a lot of drawer space but prefer a simpler aesthetic in your kitchen, you don’t have to compromise by adding busier cabinetry with multiple banks of drawers. You might also like your cabinets to look completely uniform in size. If you want to store your pots and pans in cupboards next to your smaller utensils, but keep the fronting looking the same, internal drawers allow you to do this simply and effectively.
Functionality of internal drawers
Internal drawers maximise the vertical space available, in places where it might be wasted by storing items that don’t require the full height of a cabinet. Custom sizing options for internal drawers allow you to choose just the right depth and number of drawers you need.
Since an internal drawer unit essentially creates a single level of sub-divided storage, kitchen units with doors can be effectively zoned to create dedicated storage areas. This is ideal for organising similar, related items, so next time you’re looking for something, you’re not opening and shutting every drawer in the kitchen to locate it.
Improve accessibility of your cabinets
Internal drawers also provide an extra level of comfort when using your kitchen. With a single pull, you can access multiple drawers and reduce the strain of stooping to dig around in deep drawers or low shelves.
When you’ve found what you need, all you need to give is a light push on the soft-close mechanism to finish up.
Internal drawers for every part of your kitchen
Internal kitchen drawers can be installed in many parts of the kitchen to improve functionality in a particular area.
Larder units
Transform tall storage into easily accessible zones with internal drawers. Drawers of differing depths allow you to create designated areas for dry goods, cans and large, bulk-buy items.
Having separate compartments also makes it easier to view your larder’s contents when you need to stock-check your supplies.
Our traditional larder and pocket door larder are great examples of how you can maximise storage behind a sleek exterior.
Under oven drawers
Safely store baking trays, pans and stove utensils right where you need them. Layers of internal drawers also helpfully separate and organise bulky cookware into different compartments.
This avoids the trap of stacking heavy pots and pans on top of each other, which inevitably makes it harder when you need to retrieve one from the pile.
Hidden cutlery drawers
The vast array of cutlery, cooking and baking utensils is usually the deciding factor in adding more drawer units to your kitchen.
But it’s possible to organise these assorted small items and maintain a sleek, uncluttered counter appearance with internal cutlery drawer designs.
Island units
There are many great uses for internal drawers in a kitchen island. The island is often a serving or plating-up station, so having multiple tiers of organised crockery at your disposal makes this process smooth and efficient.
It’s also an area which is accessible from most zones in the kitchen, so you can customise the drawer space for any type of kitchen storage need and still maintain the original look and feel of your island.
Slim drawers
Slim internal drawers are ideal for storing smaller kitchen essentials that can easily become cluttered in larger drawers. From utensils and kitchen linens to spices and food preparation tools, these shallow drawers help maximise every inch of available storage space.
What are the benefits of slim drawers?
Slim drawers make it easier to organise smaller items, improve visibility and reduce wasted space. By creating dedicated storage zones, they help keep worktops clear and ensure frequently used items are always close at hand.
Form meets function and the latest trends in kitchen cabinets
One of the defining kitchen trends for 2026/27 is a renewed focus on form meeting function — combining thoughtful organisation with beautiful, considered design.
Internal drawers are a perfect example of this trend in action. Hidden neatly behind your cabinetry, they help create a streamlined, clutter-free kitchen while ensuring everything has its place. From keeping pans and utensils organised to creating dedicated storage for dry goods and cooking essentials, internal drawers make everyday routines feel effortless.
It's not just about creating more storage. It's about designing a kitchen that works around the way you live. By keeping frequently used items accessible yet out of sight, internal drawers help transform busy family kitchens into calm, functional spaces that feel intuitively organised.
For more inspiration on the latest kitchen design trends, explore our 2026/27 Kitchen Trends Guide, where you'll discover how thoughtful storage solutions, colour, materials and craftsmanship are shaping the kitchens homeowners want most.
Organising your internal drawers
Once you've added internal drawers to your kitchen, thoughtful organisation can help you get even more from your storage space.
What can I use to divide my drawers?
Drawer organisers, cutlery trays, adjustable dividers, storage boxes and bespoke inserts can all help keep items neatly separated. Using dividers makes it easier to create dedicated zones for utensils, cookware, spices or pantry items, helping your kitchen stay organised over time.
Fitting internal drawers
Adding internal kitchen drawers to your home usually requires professional fitting services. Sliding mechanisms must be precise and weight ratings must be considered to achieve a perfect fit.
Can you add drawers to existing kitchen cabinets?
Internal drawer systems can often be retrofitted into existing kitchen units with doors, provided there is sufficient space and the cabinet structure can support the additional fittings. A kitchen designer can advise on the most suitable options for your cabinetry and help ensure a seamless finish.
In this type of design, both or all drawers usually pull out together, giving you the option to access the top first, or simply slide it back to reach the drawers below. To benefit from this smooth functionality, it's important to get the installation spot on.
In this type of design, both or all drawers usually pull out together, giving you the option to access the top first, or simply slide it back to reach the drawers below. To benefit from this smooth functionality, it's important to get the installation spot on.
If you’d like help fitting out your kitchen cabinets with internal drawers, book a consultation with one of our Magnet designers, who’ll be happy to discuss your individual project needs with you.
Kitchen internal drawers: FAQs
Where should a cutlery drawer be located in the kitchen?
A cutlery drawer is best positioned close to your main preparation and cooking zones, typically near the sink or hob. This allows for quick access when chopping, cooking, or serving. Many designs place it in a top or upper drawer within the main base unit run, ensuring it sits within easy reach without interrupting workflow. The goal is to keep everyday essentials exactly where you naturally use them.
What are the benefits of slim kitchen drawers?
Slim drawers make excellent use of otherwise underused space, helping to keep your kitchen organised without compromising storage efficiency. They’re ideal for smaller utensils, spices, and everyday essentials, ensuring everything has a dedicated place. Their shallow depth also improves visibility and accessibility, reducing clutter and making it easier to keep surfaces clear and orderly.
What can I use to divide kitchen drawers?
Drawer dividers are key to maintaining structure and preventing clutter. Options include adjustable inserts, modular organisers, wooden or bamboo dividers, and custom-fit trays designed for cutlery or utensils. The best solution is one that separates items by use, helping you maintain a clear system so everything is easy to find and put away.
What are the latest trends in kitchen cabinet drawers?
Modern kitchen drawer design is focused on clean lines, smart organisation and seamless integration. Deep pan drawers, handleless designs and fully integrated storage systems are particularly popular, creating a streamlined look. Internally, there’s a strong emphasis on bespoke organisation - custom inserts, hidden compartments and flexible layouts that adapt to how you use your kitchen day to day.
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