Kitchen Considerations: Let’s Talk Trash
Custom pull-out trash and recycling cabinet in a MAK Kitchen remodel. The waste cabinet is complete with hidden pull out drawer to store liner bags and cleaning supplies in one easy-to grab place.
Kitchen Extras: Part II
Let’s Talk Trash — Thoughtful Waste Design in the Modern Kitchen
When you think of a dream kitchen, chances are your mind goes straight to gleaming countertops, beautiful cabinetry, or statement lighting. But behind every truly functional kitchen is something less glamorous — the trash and waste management system. How you handle waste, recycling, and composting isn’t just a practical concern; it’s a chance to design smarter, live greener, and make everyday tasks more seamless.
From Under-the-Sink to Pull-Out Systems
One of the hallmarks of a modern remodel is the move away from the old wastebasket under the sink toward a dedicated pull-out trash and recycling center. These integrated systems keep bins hidden, accessible, and organized, helping maintain both aesthetics and hygiene.
A thoughtful upgrade to this setup includes adding a drawer above the bins, using that space for extra liners, cleaning supplies, or compost bags. It’s a small detail that keeps your cleanup area functional and clutter-free.
Customization for Waste, Recycling, and Compost
As environmental awareness grows, so do the ways we can manage waste. A simple two-bin system for trash and recycling is a good start — but with a little planning, your kitchen can do even better.
If you live in Yolo County, for example, you have access to a robust municipal composting program. Unlike traditional backyard composting, which limits what you can include, local compost services accept a wide range of materials:
Fruit and vegetable scraps
Meat, bones, and dairy
Grains and bread
Paper products like milk cartons, take-out boxes, napkins, and paper towels
You can find the full list here: Recology Davis: What Goes Where.
Designing your kitchen around these waste streams makes sustainability effortless. Imagine a single cabinet that houses bins for garbage, recycling, paper, and compost—each with its own clearly marked container. The convenience encourages consistent sorting and minimizes mess.
Cabinet Design That Keeps Up with Your Lifestyle
At MAK Design+Build, we’re seeing cabinetry evolve to match the needs of modern, eco-conscious homeowners. One elegant solution we recently installed featured a pull-out compost drawer above a standard trash and recycling pull-out. The compost bin, housed in a shallow drawer just under the counter, allows for quick access while prepping food. Simply slide open the drawer and sweep scraps straight in.
This detail may seem small, but it makes everyday cooking and cleanup flow beautifully. These are the moments where thoughtful design truly shines — not in flashy finishes, but in smooth, satisfying functionality.
Why Thoughtful Waste Design Matters
Trash management might not be the star of your kitchen, but it’s a daily-use feature that deserves careful consideration.
Convenience: Keeps sorting simple and encourages sustainable habits.
Hygiene: Reduces clutter and makes cleanup faster and cleaner.
Customization: Tailors your kitchen to your cooking and lifestyle habits.
Sustainability: Supports local composting and recycling efforts with minimal effort.
When you invest in a bespoke kitchen remodel, every drawer and detail can serve a purpose — even the ones you don’t show off to guests. A well-planned waste system makes your kitchen not only more beautiful but also more livable.
Photos By Justin Lopez Photography