With a metal bar or rail suspended below cupboards or above a stove, you just hook on the utensils — a great space saver in tight quarters. "Everything's right there in front of you where you can grab it and use it," says Charlie Palmer, head chef and owner of New York's Aureole. "And your tools can air-dry by themselves." Palmer keeps spatulas and spoons to the right side of his range and kitchen forks and sharper equipment to the left, so he knows where to reach without looking.

Rails are best for a few frequently used, frequently washed tools, because the proximity to the stove means grease accumulates. Railings by Hafele, Rosle, and other manufacturers are sold at home-decor stores and through certified kitchen designers.

Shown here: This 60-inch chrome rail from Hafele is $200, 800-423-3531 for buying information. Hung over a stove, it should hold tools used every day.