Among kitchen design’s ever-changing conditions, one that continues to stay in fashion is kitchen cabinets to ceiling. This sleek, modern appearance not only is great-looking—it also has practical benefits like increased storage space, high-end finish, and improved resale value. If you’re planning on renovating your kitchen or building a new kitchen, going up to ceiling with your kitchen cabinets is an investment well worth the cost that combines looks and functionality.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the pros and cons of full-height cabinets, design tips, installation considerations, and why so many homeowners are choosing to stretch their kitchen cabinets to ceiling.
What Are Kitchen Cabinets to Ceiling?
Cabinets to ceiling are the upper cabinets from the top of the countertop to the ceiling and, therefore, cover the wasted space that exists between the top of the cabinet and ceiling. They can be attained through:
- Custom cabinetry of your kitchen ceiling height
- Adding a second level of cabinets on top of the standard ones (stacked cabinets)
- Utilizing taller standard cabinets in new home construction
Whatever the method is, the result is one: a tidier, taller, and more unitary-appearing kitchen.
Advantages of Kitchen Cabinets to Ceiling
Kitchen cabinets to ceiling is a wonderful solution that enjoys numerous benefits—both appearance and performance. Below are some solid arguments in support of full height:
1. Increased Storage
The most obvious advantage of kitchen cabinets to ceiling is the extra storage. All that wasted space up there, otherwise occupied by dust and air, is converted into an actual place to store season food, one-use appliances, or bulk inventory.
2. Sophisticated and Finished Appearance
Cabinets that fall short of the ceiling make for a dusty cove or cluttered design space. With kitchen cabinets to ceiling, you have a sleek appearance and feel that is high-end and intentional.
3. Cleaning Convenience
Say goodbye to fighting to reach your cabinet tops with a step ladder! With kitchen cabinets to ceiling, you eliminate finicky-to-clean areas where grease and grime love to build up.
4. Higher Resale Value
Space-efficient kitchen designs are what buyers desire nowadays. Ceiling-high cabinets are going to be a hit with future homebuyers, putting your house ahead of the competition when the housing market is on fire.
Kitchen Cabinets to Ceiling Design Ideas
Kitchen cabinets to ceiling installation in the kitchen requires meticulous planning of the design. These are some expert tips to provide the design with an extremely attractive appearance:
1. Use Glass-Front or Open Shelving at the Top
If space is limited, use glass-front or open shelving as an alternative to upper cabinets. It is ideal for decorative storage and breaks the look of a solid wall of cabinetry.
2. Add a Rolling Ladder or Step Stool
For ceilings that are really, really high, functionality is the priority. Design a fashionable rolling ladder (often in libraries) a permanent fixture or keep a step stool around so top cabinets remain accessible.
3. Varying Depths of Cabinets
In order to create depth, experiment by changing the depth of your kitchen cabinets to ceiling. For instance, make the top cabinets less deep in terms of depth for easier accessibility and also for the sake of style.
4. Incorporation of Crown Molding
In order to achieve a more classical look, incorporate crown molding at the top of your cabinets. This makes the transition from cabinet to ceiling more befitting.
Materials and Finishes for Kitchen Cabinets to Ceiling
Choosing the right materials and finishes is the key to a long-lasting and stylish outcome. Renovate or build new with the following tips in mind:
Material Choice
- Plywood: Durable and budget-friendly for cabinet boxes
- MDF: Perfect for painted cabinetry and flat finishes
- Solid Wood: High-end look, ideal for doors and frames
Finish Options
- Matte White: Minimalist and sleek, perfect in minimalist kitchens
- Wood Grain: Provides warmth and depth to tall cabinet walls
- Two-Tone: Try darker lower cabinets and lighter upper cabinets to achieve visual balance of height
Having your kitchen cabinets to ceiling with the rest of the design of your home allows for continuity and elegance.
Drawbacks of Kitchen Cabinets to Ceiling
Even though full-height cabinets offer several benefits, there are a few potential drawbacks to be mindful of:
1. Accessibility
The top cabinets can be reached only with the help of a ladder or stool, especially where ceilings are higher than 9 feet, as in certain kitchens. Place less frequently used items in these top cabinets.
2. Higher Cost
More cabinets mean more materials, labor, and even perhaps customized measurements. But homeowners find the price of kitchen cabinets up to ceiling worth it for value and looks.
3. Installment Difficulty
Measure taller cabinets by strict standards. Anticipate uneven walls or ceilings, and have more than one skilled installer by default.
Alternatives to Full Kitchen Cabinets to Ceiling
Not full-height cabinet material? There are alternatives for achieving the same look without the same degree of dedication:
- Faux Cabinets: Install decorative doors over regular cabinets for the full-height appearance
- Decorative Trays and Baskets: Use space above cabinets for stylish storage
- Open Shelving: Less invasive alternative that provides height and aesthetic appeal
These alternatives all help to eliminate the empty “dead space” above cabinets without sacrificing access and reduced costs.
Are Kitchen Cabinets to Ceiling Worth It?
The choice is yours based on your own kitchen requirements. If extra storage, a modern look aesthetic, and durability over the long term are priorities for you, then kitchen cabinets to ceiling are the ideal choice. They are particularly effective in:
- Small kitchens where every inch counts
- Luxury homes where high-quality finishes are de rigueur
- Modern or contemporary styles that emphasize clean, vertical lines
If budget is tight or you have reduced ceiling heights, you may employ standard cabinetry, but full-height cabinet benefit usually outweighs the drawback for most homeowners.
Instillation of Kitchen Cabinets to Ceiling: Expectations
When heading out to install kitchen cabinets to ceiling, anticipate the following in the process:
- Design Consultation: Sit down with a kitchen designer or contractor to take measurement and select the cabinet designs correctly.
- Custom Orders: If your ceiling height is not standard, you may need custom cabinetry.
- Demolition and Preparation: Adiós, old cabinets! Demolition and preparation of the walls may take 1–2 days.
- Cabinet Installation: Installation varies by size and configuration and may take 2–5 days.
- Finishing Touches: Installs molding, hardware, lighting, and paint touch-ups.
Time from planning to completion may be 3–5 weeks, depending on materials and availability of contractors.
Last Words on Kitchen Cabinets to Ceiling
Kitchen cabinets to ceiling is an option that will equate form and function. It creates a wonderful look for your kitchen, maximizes vertical space, and respects your home. Utilizing custom cabinetry or updating your existing design, this option offers a seamless, high-end finish that is classic and functional.
Before making any decisions, get some professional advice from a kitchen designer or contractor to assess your room, your budget, and your lifestyle requirements. If installed properly, the inclusion of kitchen cabinets to ceiling will totally revamp your kitchen into a more elegant, functional, and enjoyable room.