A pull-down cabinet includes a first element fixed to an elevated structure, a second element having at least one storage surface, and at least one resistance mechanism comprising a tube having a substantially closed end, a piston within the tube creating a chamber between the piston and the substantially closed end, and a one-way valve communicating with the chamber such that the one-way valve opens, allowing fluid to pass through the one-way valve rapidly, when the piston is moved in a first direction within the tube, and closes, allowing substantially less fluid to pass through the one-way valve, when the piston is moved in a second direction within the tube, the resistance mechanism joining the first element to the second element so that when the second element slides away from the first element, the one-way valve closes, and when the second element slides toward the first element, the valve opens.