How to use a kitchen tandem box?

The world of kitchen organisation is ever-evolving, with innovative solutions continually being introduced to make the most of your kitchen space. One such solution is the kitchen tandem box, a unique drawer system that has been gaining popularity for its efficient use of space and ease of access.

 

See also: Adjustable kitchen rack designs

 

What is a kitchen tandem box?

A kitchen tandem box is a drawer system that operates on a two-line track system. This design allows the drawer to extend fully, giving you access to the deepest corners of your drawer that would otherwise be hard to reach. The term ‘tandem’ is used because of this two-line track system that the drawer slides on, similar to how a tandem bicycle operates with two sets of pedals working together.

The main advantage of a tandem box over traditional drawers is its efficient use of space. Traditional drawers often waste a lot of space at the back because they do not extend fully. Tandem boxes, on the other hand, utilise the entire depth of your cabinets, providing more storage space.

 

Design ideas

Tandem boxes come in various designs to suit different kitchen styles and storage needs. These designs can be broadly classified into four categories:

Standard tandem box

This is the simplest and most common design. It’s perfect for storing cutlery, dishes and other kitchen essentials. The standard tandem box is a single, deep drawer that extends fully for ease of access.

Tandem box with inner drawer

This design adds another level of organisation by featuring an additional drawer inside the main one. This inner drawer is great for storing smaller items that could get lost in a large drawer.

Tandem box with bottle pull-out

This design offers a specialised solution for storing bottles, jars and other cylindrical items. The bottle pull-out feature keeps these items secure and prevents them from rolling around in the drawer.

Tandem box plus

This design takes the functionality of tandem boxes a step further by incorporating an integrated soft-close mechanism. This feature ensures the drawer closes smoothly and quietly, reducing noise and wear and tear.

 

Pros and cons

Like all kitchen storage solutions, tandem boxes come with their own set of advantages and disadvantages.

 

Pros

Efficient use of space

 As mentioned earlier, tandem boxes utilise the entire depth of your cabinets, providing more storage space than traditional drawers.

Easy access

The full-extension feature of tandem boxes allows easy access to all items, even those at the back of the drawer. This eliminates the need to rummage through your drawers to find what you need.

Quiet operation

Many tandem boxes, especially the ‘Plus’ designs, come with a soft-close feature. This feature ensures the drawer closes slowly and quietly, reducing noise and preventing damage to the drawer and its contents.

 

Cons

Cost

Tandem boxes can be more expensive than traditional drawer systems. The price increases with the addition of features like inner drawers and soft-close mechanisms.

Installation

Tandem boxes usually require professional installation. While it’s possible to install these drawers yourself, it’s recommended to hire a professional to ensure the drawers operate smoothly and correctly. The cost of this installation can add to the overall expense.

 

Top brands

Several brands manufacture tandem boxes, but some brands stand out for their quality and design options. Some of the top brands include:

Blum

Known for their innovative designs and high-quality products, Blum is a popular choice for tandem boxes. Their designs often incorporate features like soft-close mechanisms and inner drawers.

Hettich

Hettich offers a range of tandem boxes to suit different needs and budgets. They are known for their durable and functional designs.

Grass

Grass tandem boxes are known for their sleek design and smooth operation. They offer a range of sizes and designs to fit various kitchen styles and storage needs.

Pricing analysis

The price of a tandem box can vary greatly depending on the brand, design and size. On average, a standard tandem box can cost anywhere from Rs 15,000 to 20,000. Designs with additional features like inner drawers and soft-close mechanisms can increase the price. Higher-end models from premium brands can cost up to Rs 35,000 or more.

 

FAQs

What is a kitchen tandem box?

A kitchen tandem box is a type of drawer system that provides efficient storage solutions by utilising the entire depth of your cabinets.

What are some popular tandem box designs?

Popular designs include standard tandem boxes, tandem boxes with inner drawers, tandem boxes with bottle pulls out and tandem box plus.

What are the advantages of a tandem box?

Advantages of tandem boxes include efficient use of space, easy access to all items and quiet operation.

What are the disadvantages of a tandem box?

Disadvantages of tandem boxes include higher cost and the potential need for professional installation.

What are some top brands that manufacture tandem boxes?

Some top brands that manufacture tandem boxes include Blum, Hettich and Grass.

Can I install a tandem box myself?

While it's possible to install a tandem box yourself, it's often recommended to have it installed by a professional for best results. DIY installation could result in improper fitting or operation of the tandem box.

Got any questions or point of view on our article? We would love to hear from you. Write to our Editor-in-Chief Jhumur Ghosh at [email protected]