Introduction: The Corner Cabinet Dilemma
Ah, the kitchen corner. It’s that awkward space where two lines of cabinetry meet, often leading to a dark, hard-to-reach abyss. Over the years, homeowners and designers alike have grappled with the challenge of effectively using this potential space. Do you let it become a void, losing out on precious storage, or do you find a clever solution to harness every square inch? Luckily, innovative solutions like the Lazy Susan and the Blind Base Corner Cabinet have come to the rescue, each promising to transform that tricky corner into a functional storage haven. As we delve into this article, we’ll explore and compare these two popular options, helping you decide which is the perfect fit for your kitchen.
Lazy Susan: The Rotating Solution
What is a Lazy Susan?
Ever spun a cake stand or a revolving spice rack? That’s a Lazy Susan for you. Originating from early 20th-century dining, the Lazy Susan has evolved into a popular kitchen cabinet solution. Typically circular, it consists of rotating shelves that spin around a central axis, allowing for easy access to items stored on every side.

Pros of Using a Lazy Susan
- Easy Access: One of the most prominent benefits is the ease of access. Just a simple spin, and items that were once hidden in the back come to the forefront.
- Efficient Use of Space: It turns potentially wasted corner cabinet space into a storage powerhouse. Every inch of the circular shelf is usable.
- Versatility: Suitable for various items, from spices and condiments to pots and pans, making it a versatile kitchen storage solution.
Cons of Using a Lazy Susan
- Limited Weight Capacity: Depending on the design and material, some Lazy Susans might not hold very heavy items well.
- Risk of Items Falling: If not careful, items, especially smaller ones, can fall off when spinning too quickly.
- Potential Dead Space: While it does optimize space to an extent, there’s often a small unused portion in the very center due to the rotational mechanism.
Blind Base Corner Cabinet: The Static Stalwart
What is a Blind Base Corner Cabinet?
At first glance, the Blind Base Corner Cabinet might seem like any regular cabinet. But dive a little deeper, and its uniqueness shines. Placed in the corner between two runs of cabinets, it has one side fully attached to the wall without any functional storage – that’s the ‘blind’ side. Its primary purpose? To utilize corner spaces while ensuring a smooth flow in kitchen designs.

Benefits of a Blind Base Corner Cabinet
- Seamless Design: Perfectly meshes with the layout of modern kitchens, providing a smooth transition between two cabinet runs.
- Stable Storage: Without any moving parts, it offers solid and consistent storage space.
- Versatile Aesthetics: Being a static unit, it fits seamlessly into various kitchen styles, from contemporary to classic.
Drawbacks of a Blind Base Corner Cabinet
- Harder Access: Reaching items stored deep within can be a challenge, given its fixed structure.
- Potential Wasted Space: Unlike the rotating solution of a Lazy Susan, the blind base might leave some space underutilized due to its static design.
Comparison: Lazy Susan vs Blind Base
In comparing Lazy Susan and Blind Base cabinets: Lazy Susans provide convenient rotating access and efficient space utilization, albeit at a potentially higher cost. Blind Bases, on the other hand, boast stable storage and a sleek aesthetic, though accessing items may require some effort. The choice between them often boils down to preference and budget.

- Ease of Use: Lazy Susan easily wins with its rotating access, while the Blind Base requires a bit of stretching and reaching.
- Space Utilization: Lazy Susan generally uses space more efficiently, but the Blind Base offers stable, consistent storage.
- Aesthetic: A matter of preference. Lazy Susan offers a unique rotating feature, while the Blind Base offers clean lines and seamless integration.
- Cost: Typically, Lazy Susans might be slightly pricier due to their rotating mechanism, but costs can vary based on design, material, and brand.
FAQs Related Lazy Susan vs Blind Base Corner Cabinets
Blind cabinets and corner cabinets address corner storage needs in kitchens. Blind cabinets have some hidden space, while corner solutions, like Lazy Susans, optimize accessibility. Lazy Susans are popular for their ease, but pull-out drawers and swing-out shelves are also options. The name “Lazy Susan” dates back to the early 1900s, with its exact origin a mix of history and theory.

What is the difference between blind cabinets and corner cabinets?
Blind cabinets and corner cabinets both address the issue of maximizing storage in corner spaces of a kitchen, but they are approached differently:
Blind Cabinets: These are designed to fit into a corner but don’t fully extend into the corner space. There’s a portion hidden or “blind” that might be harder to access. The front of a blind cabinet typically appears like a regular cabinet, but there is a section extending into the corner that is obscured.
Corner Cabinets: These usually refer to any cabinet designed to fit in a corner, which includes solutions like Lazy Susans, diagonal cabinets, or even blind base cabinets. Their primary purpose is to utilize corner space efficiently.
Why use a blind corner base cabinet?
Using a blind corner base cabinet can offer several advantages:
- Aesthetics: They provide a continuous and smooth visual flow in your kitchen.
- Versatility: Can fit with various kitchen styles and designs.
- Storage: Even with the “blind” portion, they offer a substantial storage solution.
What is best for corner cabinets?
The best solution for corner cabinets often depends on individual needs and kitchen layout:
- Lazy Susans are popular due to their rotating shelves, providing easy access.
- Magic or LeMans corners use pull-out units that extend fully, providing easy access to the corner’s depths.
- Diagonal corner cabinets give a straightforward, direct approach to the corner and can often accommodate larger items.
What can I use instead of a Lazy Susan in corner cabinet?
There are several alternatives to a Lazy Susan:
- Pull-out drawers: These can slide out for easy access.
- Swing-out shelves: These offer similar convenience by swinging out of the corner.
- Magic or LeMans corners: They are pull-out corner cabinet solutions that provide easy access to the rear of the cabinet.
Why do they call it a lazy Susan?
The term “Lazy Susan” describes a turntable or rotating tray, usually circular, that’s set on a table or countertop to aid in distributing food. Though its exact origins are unclear, it’s believed that the term began being used in the early 20th century. One theory suggests it was named for servants replaced by this device. Instead of having a server present and rotate dishes for guests, the Lazy Susan provided a simple way for everyone to share dishes at meals. The name “Susan” was a generic, commonly used name during this period, hence “Lazy Susan.”
Conclusion: Choosing the Best Fit for Your Kitchen
Deciding between Lazy Susan and Blind Base Corner Cabinet isn’t just about looks—it’s about function too. Lazy Susans are great for those who love easy access, but watch out for weight limits. Meanwhile, Blind Base Cabinets offer a chic, stable storage option, though they might need a bit more effort to fetch items. Think about your daily kitchen routine, your design vibe, and how you prioritize storage. Whether you lean towards a spinning organizer or a stylish static option, pick what resonates with your kitchen life. After all, it’s about crafting a space that enhances your cooking journey.






