“Small space is something I started thinking about a decade ago,” says San Francisco–based designer Yvonne Mouser. But when it came to designing behind-the-counter storage for San Francisco’s Front Cafe, she knew the solution had to be not only space-efficient but also easily changeable to suit the cafe’s many uses “as a studio/workshop/laboratory,” says Mouser. “Coffee was just the beginning of the plan, so we needed to design something flexible and versatile.” The solution? Custom-built pegboards, ideal for their flexibility, slim profile, and workshop-like aesthetic.
We’re sad to report that Front Cafe is now shuttered, but its pegboard storage system still has lessons to impart for at-home kitchens. Those interested in the pegboards can reach out to Mouser for similar, custom solutions—or look for her at our upcoming Remodelista Market in San Francisco.
Photography by James Newman, except where noted.
Above: Mouser kept the pegboards neutral, adding light-colored boards and black hardware to the cafe’s existing concrete floors and black detailing. “The panels can be mounted in numerous grid-based configurations and a selection of custom wire shelves, hooks, and holders can be endlessly rearranged and reconfigured,” says Mouser.
Above: “The pegboard worked both as a tool for display and as a hint of the workshop behind the scenes,” says Mouser of the versions in Front Cafe. Here, floating shelves affixed to the boards display bags of coffee and ceramic jugs. At home, they could display favorite bowls or jars of spices.
Above: When hung from the ceiling, a pegboard even serves as the cafe menu.
Above: Affixed to the board, small ledges become instant floating shelves. We see endless possibilities for displaying cookbooks.
Above: Secured to the pegboard with metal hoops, small glass beakers hold flatware. In the home kitchen, we imagine jars of forks, knives, spoons, and cooking utensils—or small vases filled with a wildflower or two.
Above: Black iron hooks hang any number of utensils and necessities. Here, they keep a serving tray from cluttering the countertop.
Above: A small ledge keeps napkins at the ready. We love the idea of keeping pretty cloth versions on display.
Above: The pegboard seamlessly integrates plants into the cafe wall. Try a small row of succulents at home. Photograph by Lisa Mishima.
Adaptable, neutral, and efficient, peg rails and boards are the ultimate organizers. For more, see our posts:
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