The Space-Saving Cutting Board Tip That Doubles As A Design Trick

There are many ways to maximize space in a small kitchen, from bulk food storage solutions and proper organization of canned goods to foregoing kitchen islands. For additional space-saving ideas, Food Republic spoke with Farook Member, an interior design specialist at QS Supplies. Member shared a cutting board hack that not only extends usable prep space in your kitchen, but also doubles as a design trick.

Cutting boards are common kitchen tools that most home cooks have on hand, but they're useful for more than just chopping. "Placing a cutting board over a stovetop is a brilliant work-around for maximizing counter real estate, especially in a compact kitchen, when each inch matters," Member explained. "It instantly creates a prep station with no added furniture or renovation required, allowing cooks in the house to take advantage of wasted real estate when the stove is idle."

Purchasing a large cutting board that completely covers your stove — we like this one from Lynicon — or having one custom-made can give you the extra counter space you've only dreamed of. You can also place two matching cutting boards side by side on your range top to cover the surface. These boards are easily removed when you need to use the stove.

Not only do these dual-purpose cutting boards extend your counter space, but they can also enhance your kitchen's aesthetic, making them an eye-catching addition to the room. "Wooden boards create a cozy, organic look, while sleek stone or marble boards can create a sleek, upscale look," Member noted.

Before using a stovetop cutting board, there are some important considerations to keep in mind. "Safety above all with this hack," Farook Member warned. "The stovetop must be perfectly cool to the touch before a board is placed over it, and gas burners must be fully turned off to eliminate any risk of exposure to flame. A board with non-skid handles or a custom cover snugly fitted can preclude sliding for stability. Specialty cutting boards made for the stovetop come with built-in handles or ridges that prevent sliding, too."

Make sure to choose a board that's suited to the type of stovetop you have. For instance, some cooktops have raised knobs incorporated into the surface next to the heating elements rather than positioned above or below the stovetop. For those, a cutting board with elevating legs or a raised design will protect the appliance's dials, preventing them from coming into contact with the board and potentially sustaining damage from its weight.

With a properly fitting chopping surface and a few safety precautions, this handy tactic can extend your usable kitchen space in a neat and attractive way. "This hack for added counter area isn't just easy, it simplifies food prep, too, while keeping the kitchen looking tidy by concealing idle burners when the stove is off," Member stated. "Used judiciously, it's an effortless yet impactful kitchen hack for maximizing both utility and aesthetics."