Lift systems instead of doors: how to store glasses in the kitchen
Jan 2026Advantages of wall cabinets outfitted with lift systems
Available options and their differences
Added extras for even greater ease of use
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Every day, kitchen users reach into the cabinet to take out a glass—so it's worth thinking about how to store glasses, cups and other small dishes in the kitchen. A thoughtfully designed kitchen solution always allows easy, ergonomic access.
Planning for the pros
Why the standard solution isn't a solution
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Wall cabinets with hinged doors are usually the standard in the kitchen. Unfortunately, this isn't ideal for several reasons:
The open doors get in the way and do not provide easy access to storage items—but closing doors after each use is inefficient.
Numerous narrow cabinets in a row are more expensive than a single wide one and provide less storage space over the same width.
Cabinet width isn't entirely flexible. When a cabinet exceeds 24 inches wide, two doors are recommended, since a single door would swing too far into the room. However, this simply replaces one obstruction with two, requiring the user to maneuver around both doors instead of one.
Doors are a particular obstacle when it comes to cabinets that hold cups and glasses. The kitchen user often spends more time here than in front of other cabinets, for example when clearing out the dishwasher or setting the table for a large get-together. Doors that are in the way are not only irritating but can also be painful: careless movements can easily lead to a bump on the head.
So how can cups and glasses be stored in the kitchen so that they are easily accessible and quick to put away? The experts at Blum recommend wall cabinets with lift systems.
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Fronts move up and out of the user's way thanks to wall cabinets with lift systems
Wall cabinets with lift systems that open upwards can be used in virtually any kitchen, regardless of the design or available space. This means cabinet fronts move out of the working area, are no longer an obstacle and pose no risk of injury.
Lift systems are available for a broad range of cabinet widths—from narrow and compact versions to lifts that can accommodate generous cabinets up to 72 inches wide—allowing items to be stored in the smartest possible way. So now nothing stands in the way of creative design, ergonomic movement and better organization.
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Placing the cabinet that holds cups and glasses near the dishwasher creates a shorter distance and makes the workflow more efficient.
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Whether the cabinet front is light or heavy, the lift system opens smoothly and stays in the desired position. This leaves the kitchen user's hands free for more important tasks.
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The integrated BLUMOTION soft-close mechanism allows the lift system to close silently.
A wall cabinet outfitted with lift systems is the ideal solution for small and lightweight everyday items—cereal bowls, saucers or small plates.
Bulky and heavy dishes such as dinner plates or serving platters, on the other hand, can be stored in a base cabinet with drawers.
From theory to practice with solutions by Blum
With Blum's range of lift systems, wall cabinet concepts can be implemented in several ways depending on the cabinet design, space available and personal preferences.
It's possible to use lift systems in wall cabinets up to 72 inches wide. Depending on whether the user opts for fold up, swing up and over, lift up or pivot up solutions, cabinet heights between 8 inches and 48 inches are possible.
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Bi-fold fronts fold in the middle. With this design, even large cabinets allow plenty of freedom of movement. AVENTOS HF top is recommended for tall, wide cabinets with front heights up to 48".
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If there is a gap between the wall cabinet and the ceiling, this solution is ideal. The one-part front swings up and over the cabinet when opened. AVENTOS HS top can be used with front heights between 13-3/4" and 31-1/2".
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The one-part front moves upwards parallel to the cabinet, making it perfect for rooms with high ceilings. Front heights from 11-13/16" to 22-13/16" are possible with AVENTOS HL top.
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The one-part front simply pivots out and away from the cabinet, so these lifts are an ideal, space-saving solution for big and small cabinets alike. Front heights between 7-3/8" and 24" are possible.
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A particular highlight: since AVENTOS lifts can support wide fronts, upper cabinets can visually line up with wide base drawers for a cohesive appearance.
Maximize convenience and ease of use
Handleless lift systems are right on trend, delivering a sleek, modern aesthetic. Their elegant design brings a refined sense of style to any space. Thanks to the integrated variable stop feature, the lift system stays exactly where you want it after opening—whether or not handles are used.
For even greater convenience, a mechanical or electrical motion support system can be added. A light touch on the front is all it takes for the lift system to open automatically.
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SERVO-DRIVE is an electrical support system from Blum. The lift system opens by touching the cabinet front and closes at the touch of a button.
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With TIP-ON from Blum, the lift system opens mechanically by pushing the cabinet front and closes manually.
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Wall cabinet with lift systems at a glance
Blum recommends wall cabinets with lift systems to keep cups and glasses easily accessible in the kitchen.
Lift systems, with fronts that move up and out of the user's way, ensure full freedom of movement during everyday activities in the kitchen.
With lift systems, the handle is always within easy reach thanks to the variable stop feature.
Compact cabinets between 7-3/8" and 24" tall are possible. Blum lift systems can also be used to create large cabinets up to 48" high and 72" wide.
Even with wide and heavy fronts, easy opening and closing is guaranteed.
Planning the cabinet for cups and glasses near the dishwasher helps achieve optimum and efficient workflows.
A motion support system adds even more convenience, enabling lift systems to open automatically with a light touch or push of a button thanks to SERVO-DRIVE or TIP-ON from Blum.
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