Post by Stacey Walker. Stacey mostly works behind the scenes for Walker Woodworking, managing day to day operations, and marketing. Stacey has helped many clients create their dream space.

What is a Docking drawer?

Drawers are a staple in cabinet design because they can be used for a wide variety of tasks. Kitchens, bathrooms, laundry rooms, and home offices all benefit from having drawers. With various depths they can accommodate large to small items and help create boundaries in certain areas plus customized for a particular function such as knife block or make up. Designers are always looking for ways to maximize a drawer for their client’s particular needs including electronics. We are connected to our devices since they perform a myriad of things related to work and leisure. From responding to an office email or posting your vacation photos on social media, our devices are integrated into our daily life but they still need to be charged. This often leads to having a messy charging station filled with cables and cords that can easily make a counter or table look cluttered. Designers now look to a docking drawer for the answer. Let’s take a closer look at what they are and why they are such a popular option.

What is a docking drawer?

Drawers are a go-to for storage solutions but not all drawers are created equal. A docking drawer serves a special purpose by allowing you to have access to an outlet from right inside the drawer. You can install a small strip and include USB ports for charging items like phones and tablets. Power your hair dryer directly from the same bathroom drawer you store it in. They can be added to an existing cabinet or designed into your new set of drawers. Docking drawers are the perfect combination of function and practicality with a splash of convenience thrown in.

Why have a docking drawer?

There are multiple benefits to having a docking drawer included in your renovation design for both kitchens and bathrooms or other spaces that require additional outlets or charging stations. Some of the perks include:

• Less clutter on the counter
• Convenience
• Adaptability

Drawers are designed to accommodate a wide variety of needs but a docking drawer goes a step beyond by meeting a specific need, a power station that can be tucked away when not needed. You can charge your phone directly in the drawer and close it up which is a great feature in areas like your night stand in the bedroom. You can plug it up and then tuck it away so you can enjoy a good night’s sleep undisturbed. Clutter tends to be something that many homeowners deal with but when you put certain things in place it makes it easier to limit the amount of clutter or even remove it all together. A docking drawer keeps cords and devices off of the counter and inside a designated drawer. This is also a great feature for bathrooms too as items such as a hair dryer or other electrical items can be used and stored in the same drawer keeping the counter free and open. Docking drawers are a great asset to the home and provide several solutions to powering our items without getting in the way.

Where to place a docking drawer

As you can see there is no limit to where they can be utilized, from the kitchen to the home office a docking drawer offers adaptability to every area. Some designers have included them into their drop zone area with one in each drawer so that everyone has their personal spot to charge their devices. This is a great solution to families with children who use tablets at school because they can charge them each night and know where they are each morning when heading out the door. They work well in home offices for those who have limited workspace or like to keep it clear from cords. Having a dedicated charging drawer keeps everything for your office in one spot and time saved looking for a misplaced cord. Docking drawers are built for convenience and concealment which is why they are a favorite with designers and homeowners.They provide functionality for every member of the household and can flex to a variety of tasks so be sure to talk to your designer about where you want them incorporated. 

Is a docking drawer safe?

Yes, a docking drawer is safe and adheres to building code. They were designed to operate directly in a drawer and are a safe addition to your space so you can have complete peace of mind.

Docking drawers in the home

If you are ready to have your counters and workspaces clear of clutter then docking drawers are your answer. They are a personalized charging station packed neatly away in a safe but accessible place for everyone. Designers and homeowners continue to enjoy the perks these specialized drawers provide plus they preserve the overall look of the space by keeping everything nice and clean. Every area of the home can benefit from a docking drawer or two in the design.