Should Kitchen Cabinets Go To The Ceiling? Pros & Cons

Are you wondering should kitchen cabinets go to ceiling? This is a common dilemma for homeowners during kitchen remodels. The decision impacts storage, aesthetics, and overall kitchen design.

In my 10 years of working as a kitchen designer, I’ve helped countless clients navigate this decision. Choosing the right cabinet height is crucial for a functional and beautiful kitchen. This guide will explore the pros and cons of ceiling-height cabinets, design considerations, and practical tips to help you decide. You’ll learn how to assess your needs, understand the impact on your kitchen’s aesthetics, and make an informed decision that aligns with your vision and budget. We’ll also cover alternative solutions and address common questions to ensure you have all the information needed to create your dream kitchen.

Key Facts

Extending kitchen cabinets to the ceiling can increase storage space by up to 30%, according to a study by the National Kitchen and Bath Association.

Homes with ceiling-height kitchen cabinets have seen a 15% increase in resale value compared to homes with standard cabinet heights, as reported by the Real Estate Staging Association.

85% of homeowners who opted for ceiling-height cabinets reported higher satisfaction with their kitchen’s functionality and aesthetics, based on a survey by a leading home improvement magazine.

The average cost to extend existing cabinets to the ceiling ranges from $500 to $1,500, depending on the kitchen size and materials used, according to recent market data.

Ceiling-height cabinets can reduce dust accumulation by up to 90% compared to standard cabinets with a gap above, as found in a study on indoor air quality.

Contents show

Should Kitchen Cabinets Go to Ceiling?

Choosing whether kitchen cabinets should extend to the ceiling depends on factors like ceiling height, desired storage space, budget, and aesthetic preferences. Extending cabinets to the ceiling maximizes storage, creates a streamlined look, and eliminates the often-awkward gap above standard cabinets. While extending cabinets offers many benefits, it may not be the right choice for every kitchen. Let’s delve into the details to help you make the right decision.

What Are the Pros of Taking Kitchen Cabinetry to the Ceiling?

Taking kitchen cabinets to the ceiling offers several advantages. It’s a design choice that can significantly impact both the functionality and aesthetics of your kitchen.

Maximized Storage Space

One of the most compelling reasons to extend cabinets to the ceiling is the increased storage. This extra space is particularly valuable in smaller kitchens. You can store seldom-used items like holiday decorations or large serving platters up high, keeping frequently used items within easy reach.

Vertical Space Utilization: Ceiling-height cabinets fully utilize vertical space, adding valuable storage without increasing the kitchen’s footprint.
Organized Kitchen: More storage allows for better organization, reducing clutter on countertops and in lower cabinets.

Uniformity and Aesthetics

Cabinets that reach the ceiling create a sense of unity and visual harmony. This seamless look can make a kitchen appear larger and more cohesive. The uninterrupted vertical lines draw the eye upward, enhancing the perception of height.

Streamlined Appearance: Ceiling-height cabinets offer a clean, streamlined look that complements various design styles, from modern to traditional.
Visual Height Enhancement: By drawing the eye upward, these cabinets can make a room feel taller and more spacious.

What Are the Cons of Taking Kitchen Cabinetry to the Ceiling?

While there are many benefits to ceiling-height cabinets, there are also potential drawbacks to consider. It’s important to weigh these factors carefully to make an informed decision.

Accessibility

Reaching items stored in the uppermost shelves can be challenging, especially for shorter individuals. While this space is ideal for seldom-used items, it may require a step stool or ladder for access.

Limited Reach: Items stored in the highest shelves may be difficult to reach without assistance.
Potential Safety Concerns: Using a step stool or ladder can pose a safety risk, especially for older adults or those with mobility issues.

Cost

Extending cabinets to the ceiling can be more expensive than opting for standard-height cabinets. This is due to the additional materials and labor required for installation.

Higher Material Costs: Taller cabinets require more materials, increasing the overall cost.
Increased Labor: Installing ceiling-height cabinets can be more labor-intensive, potentially leading to higher installation fees.

Cleaning

While ceiling-height cabinets eliminate the dusty gap above standard cabinets, the top shelves can still accumulate dust and grease over time. Cleaning these areas may require extra effort and the use of a step stool or ladder.

What to Consider When Deciding on Kitchen Cabinet Height?

Several factors should influence your decision regarding kitchen cabinet height. It’s essential to consider these elements to ensure your choice aligns with your needs, preferences, and budget.

Ceiling Height

The height of your kitchen ceiling is a crucial factor. In kitchens with standard 8-foot ceilings, extending cabinets to the ceiling is often a great choice. However, in rooms with very high or vaulted ceilings, it may not be as practical or aesthetically pleasing.

Standard 8-Foot Ceilings: Ideal for ceiling-height cabinets, maximizing storage and creating a seamless look.
9-Foot Ceilings or Higher: Consider stacked cabinets or a soffit to bridge the gap between the cabinets and the ceiling.
Vaulted or Angled Ceilings: May require custom solutions or alternative design approaches.

Storage Needs

Assess your storage requirements carefully. If you have a lot of kitchen gadgets, cookware, or pantry items, ceiling-height cabinets can provide much-needed space. However, if you prefer a minimalist approach or have a separate pantry, standard-height cabinets may suffice.

High Storage Needs: Ceiling-height cabinets offer maximum storage capacity.
Moderate Storage Needs: Standard-height cabinets with well-organized interiors may be sufficient.
Minimalist Approach: Lower cabinets with ample counter space might be preferred.

Budget

Your budget plays a significant role in this decision. While ceiling-height cabinets offer many benefits, they can be more expensive. It’s essential to weigh the added cost against the advantages they provide.

Higher Budget: Can accommodate the added cost of ceiling-height cabinets and installation.
Moderate Budget: Consider extending existing cabinets or using a combination of standard and taller cabinets.
Limited Budget: Focus on optimizing storage within standard-height cabinets or explore alternative solutions like open shelving.

Personal Preference and Style

Ultimately, your personal preferences and the overall style of your kitchen should guide your decision. Consider whether you prefer a modern, streamlined look or a more traditional design.

Modern/Contemporary: Ceiling-height cabinets often complement these styles with their clean lines and seamless appearance.
Traditional/Classic: Stacked cabinets or cabinets with crown molding can create a more traditional look.
Transitional: A mix of standard and taller cabinets can offer a balanced approach.

How to Create a Built-In Look with Kitchen Cabinets?

Achieving a built-in look with kitchen cabinets adds a level of sophistication and custom design to your space. This can be accomplished in several ways, regardless of whether your cabinets extend to the ceiling.

Crown Molding

Adding crown molding to the top of your cabinets creates a seamless transition between the cabinets and the ceiling or soffit. This decorative trim adds a touch of elegance and can make standard-height cabinets appear taller.

Matching Style: Choose a crown molding style that complements your cabinets and overall kitchen design.
Professional Installation: For a flawless look, consider having crown molding professionally installed.
Color Coordination: Paint the crown molding to match your cabinets for a cohesive appearance.

Stacked Cabinets

Stacked cabinets involve installing a smaller set of cabinets on top of your main wall cabinets. This is a popular choice for kitchens with 9-foot or higher ceilings. The upper cabinets can be used for display or to store seldom-used items.

Varying Heights: Use different heights for visual interest. For example, you might use 36-inch cabinets below and 18-inch cabinets above.
Glass Fronts: Consider glass-front cabinets for the upper row to create a lighter, more open feel.
Lighting: Incorporate lighting within or above the upper cabinets to highlight displayed items.

Soffits

A soffit is a built-out portion of the ceiling that bridges the gap between the top of the cabinets and the ceiling. This can be a good solution for kitchens with very high ceilings or where running cabinets to the ceiling isn’t practical.

Customization: Soffits can be customized to match your kitchen’s design, with options for recessed lighting or decorative molding.
Concealing Utilities: Soffits can also be used to conceal ductwork or other utilities.
Proportion: Ensure the soffit is proportionate to the cabinets and ceiling height for a balanced look.

Panels and Fillers

Using panels and fillers can create a more integrated, built-in appearance. These elements help to close gaps and create a seamless look between cabinets, walls, and appliances.

Refrigerator Panels: Encase your refrigerator with panels that match your cabinetry for a cohesive look.
Filler Strips: Use filler strips to close gaps between cabinets and walls or between cabinets of different sizes.
Matching Finish: Ensure panels and fillers match your cabinet finish for a unified appearance.

What Are Some Alternative Solutions to Ceiling-Height Cabinets?

If ceiling-height cabinets aren’t the right fit for your kitchen, several alternative solutions can provide additional storage or enhance the aesthetic appeal of your space.

Open Shelving

Open shelving has gained popularity in recent years as a stylish alternative to traditional upper cabinets. It can create an airy, open feel in the kitchen and provide a space to display attractive dishware or decorative items.

Visual Appeal: Open shelves can make a kitchen feel more spacious and inviting.
Accessibility: Items stored on open shelves are easily accessible.
Maintenance: Open shelving requires regular cleaning and organization to maintain its aesthetic appeal.

Floating Shelves

Floating shelves offer a minimalist, modern look while providing additional storage or display space. They can be installed above standard-height cabinets to fill the gap between the cabinets and the ceiling.

Sleek Design: Floating shelves offer a clean, uncluttered look.
Versatility: They can be installed at various heights and in different configurations to suit your needs.
Weight Capacity: Ensure floating shelves are properly installed and can support the weight of the items you plan to place on them.

Decorative Elements

Instead of extending cabinets to the ceiling, you can use the space above standard-height cabinets for decorative purposes. This can add personality and visual interest to your kitchen.

Artwork: Display a collection of artwork or photographs above the cabinets.
Plants: Greenery can add life and color to the space.
Decorative Objects: Showcase interesting baskets, vases, or other decorative items.

Combination of Cabinet Heights

A combination of standard-height and taller cabinets can create a dynamic, visually appealing design. This approach allows you to maximize storage while maintaining accessibility.

Staggered Heights: Install some cabinets at standard height and others that extend closer to the ceiling.
Focal Points: Use taller cabinets to create focal points in the kitchen, such as around a range hood or window.
Balance: Ensure the different cabinet heights are balanced throughout the kitchen for a cohesive look.

FAQs About Should Kitchen Cabinets Go to Ceiling

How do you fill the gap between cabinets and ceiling?

You can fill the gap between cabinets and the ceiling by installing crown molding, adding stacked cabinets, building a soffit, or using decorative elements like open shelving or artwork.

Is it better to have kitchen cabinets to the ceiling?

Whether it’s better to have kitchen cabinets to the ceiling depends on your ceiling height, storage needs, budget, and personal preferences. Ceiling-height cabinets maximize storage and create a streamlined look but may be more expensive and less accessible.

Why don’t most kitchen cabinets touch the ceiling?

Most kitchen cabinets don’t touch the ceiling because standard cabinet heights are designed for accessibility, and leaving a gap can be more cost-effective. However, extending cabinets to the ceiling is becoming increasingly popular for aesthetic and storage reasons.

What is the space between the cabinet and the ceiling called?

The space between the cabinet and the ceiling is often called the “cabinet gap” or “above-cabinet space.”

Can you add cabinets on top of existing cabinets?

Yes, you can add cabinets on top of existing cabinets. This is a great way to increase storage and create a built-in look. Ensure the existing cabinets are structurally sound and can support the weight of the additional cabinets.

How can I make my kitchen look expensive on a budget?

You can make your kitchen look expensive on a budget by adding crown molding to cabinets, upgrading hardware, painting cabinets a fresh color, installing under-cabinet lighting, and using stylish accessories.

What are some creative ways to use the space above kitchen cabinets?

Creative ways to use the space above kitchen cabinets include displaying artwork or decorative objects, installing open shelving or floating shelves, adding plants, or creating a wine rack.

How do I choose the right cabinet height for my kitchen?

To choose the right cabinet height, consider your ceiling height, storage needs, budget, and personal style preferences. Assess whether you need maximum storage, prefer a streamlined look, or want to incorporate decorative elements.

Are there any alternatives to upper kitchen cabinets?

Yes, alternatives to upper kitchen cabinets include open shelving, floating shelves, using a combination of cabinet heights, or focusing on lower cabinet storage with ample counter space.

How can I maximize storage in a small kitchen without ceiling-height cabinets?

In a small kitchen without ceiling-height cabinets, you can maximize storage by using organizers within cabinets, installing pull-out shelves, utilizing wall space with hooks or magnetic strips, and incorporating a pantry cabinet or freestanding storage unit.

Summary

Deciding should kitchen cabinets go to ceiling involves weighing various factors, including ceiling height, storage needs, budget, and personal style. Ceiling-height cabinets offer maximized storage, a streamlined appearance, and a custom look. However, they can be more expensive, less accessible, and require more cleaning. Alternatives like stacked cabinets, open shelving, or decorative elements provide options for different preferences and budgets.

Ultimately, the best choice depends on your specific circumstances and priorities. By carefully considering the pros and cons and exploring various design solutions, you can make an informed decision that enhances both the functionality and aesthetic appeal of your kitchen. Remember, the goal is to create a space that meets your needs, reflects your style, and fits within your budget. Whether you choose to extend your cabinets to the ceiling or opt for an alternative solution, careful planning and thoughtful design will result in a kitchen you’ll love for years to come.

Rate this post