The Outdated Kitchen Cabinet Design That's Becoming Practical Again

Kitchen cabinet trends come and go, but the ones with staying power tend to be those that aren't just beautiful, but also practical. The beautiful freestanding Hoosier baking cabinets that were ubiquitous in kitchens in the early 1900s fell out of fashion during the post-war period, as fitted cabinets and counters became more common. While no longer kitchen mainstays, these baking cabinets can still be surprisingly practical for storage and organization throughout your home.

Combining storage and workspace all in one piece of furniture, it's easy to see why Hoosier baking cabinets were beloved kitchen essentials — and why they still have a place in many older homes as a cozy alternative to fitted cabinets. Even if you have a gorgeous modern kitchen with fitted cabinetry, you may still find that a baking cabinet is a practical option for your home, whether you choose to add a fitted one to your kitchen or stick with the traditional freestanding design. Not only are these cabinets a perfect way to store occasionally used appliances, but they can also hold many of your pantry staples.

While Hoosier baking cabinets traditionally had built-in features like flour sifters and meat grinders, those aren't likely the aspects that will make them attractive today. Instead, their convenient pull-out counters and variety of compartments and drawers are their top features for modern audiences. They can be the perfect spot for your mixer, toaster, or any other appliances you don't want cluttering up your counters. If you're interested in adding a traditional Hoosier baking cabinet to your home, they're often available at antique shops and websites — though be aware, they aren't cheap.

Even if you already have a perfect cupboard setup and aren't looking for ideas for a kitchen remodel, a Hoosier baking cabinet could still be perfect for you. These handy cabinets aren't just for kitchens, as they can also make excellent storage solutions for hobbies. The different compartments of the cabinet are ideal for craft room organization.