Looking to free up space and make your kitchen look great? One of the best and easiest ways to do both is to stack in a kitchen cabinet. It’s a simple but genius idea. If you’ve got tall ceilings, stacked cabinets can give you all the extra storage you need—without taking up any more floor space. In this guide, I’ll show you why stacking in a kitchen cabinet is such a smart move, how to make it work, and a few tips to get it just right.
What Does It Mean to Stack in a Kitchen Cabinet?
So, what exactly is stacking in a kitchen cabinet? It’s simple! You install smaller cabinets above your regular upper cabinets, all the way up to the ceiling. This works best if you’ve got high ceilings (think 9 feet or more). Instead of letting all that empty space go to waste, you can use it for extra storage. Perfect for items you don’t need every day, like your fancy plates, extra pots, or that big mixer you only pull out a few times a year. Plus, it frees up your lower cabinets for the stuff you use daily.
Why You Should Consider Stacking in a Kitchen Cabinet
More Room for Storage
The big win with stacking in a kitchen cabinet is, of course, the extra storage. You can store all the things that usually crowd up your countertops or lower cabinets. Think big pots, seasonal dishes, or even that bulky bread machine you don’t use all the time. The best part? Your everyday stuff stays easy to reach, while the less-used things go up high, out of the way.
Adds a Polished Look
Not only does stacking in a kitchen cabinet give you more storage, but it also makes your kitchen look sharp. It adds that sleek, custom feel. You can choose finishes that match your style—maybe classic wood, trendy glass-front doors, or even open shelves to show off your best dishware. Whatever you decide, stacked cabinets give your kitchen that polished, “designer” look.
Less Dusting, More Clean
Here’s a bonus you might not have considered. Those top spots above your cabinets where dust always seems to collect? Well, stacking in a kitchen cabinet helps cover those areas up. No more worrying about cleaning up that pesky dust that gets stuck up there. Your kitchen will stay cleaner, longer, and require way less effort to keep it looking fresh.
Works with Any Style
The great thing about stacking in a kitchen cabinet is that it works with any kitchen style. Doesn’t matter if your kitchen is more farmhouse, modern, or traditional. Stacked cabinets can fit right in. Plus, you can customize them with different materials, finishes, and door styles. There are so many ways to make them work with your kitchen’s vibe.
Design Tips for Stacking in a Kitchen Cabinet
Ceiling Height Is Key
For stacking in a kitchen cabinet to work its magic, you really need a tall ceiling. At least 9 feet high is ideal. If your ceiling is lower, stacked cabinets might make the space feel cramped. But, if you’ve got that extra vertical space, you’re in luck! It’s the perfect way to use up that space without crowding the rest of your kitchen.
Think About Proportions
When you’re adding stacked cabinets, it’s important to think about the size of the cabinets in relation to your kitchen. If they’re too large or bulky, they might make the space feel heavy and unbalanced. Keep it in proportion with the rest of your kitchen. You want it to feel like a natural extension of your space, not an overwhelming addition.
Store What You Don’t Use Often
One thing to remember about stacking in a kitchen cabinet: those upper cabinets are harder to reach. They’re perfect for storing things you don’t use every day. Think about holiday decorations, special-occasion dishes, or extra kitchen tools that take up space but aren’t used often. You’ll need a step stool or ladder to grab things up there, so keep only the things you don’t need regularly in those upper cabinets.
Customizing Your Stacked Kitchen Cabinets
Choose Your Materials
When you decide to stack in a kitchen cabinet, you’ve got plenty of material options. Wood is classic and warm, but MDF and plywood are more modern and durable. The finish you choose will set the tone for your kitchen. Glossy, matte, bold colors, or natural wood finishes—whatever fits your style. You’ve got plenty of choices to make it work with your kitchen’s personality.
Play with Door Styles and Lighting
For your stacked cabinets, you can go with solid doors, glass-front doors, or even open shelving. If you want to show off some of your best plates or mugs, glass-front doors or shelves are a good option. Want to add a little extra style? Consider adding lighting inside the cabinets. It’ll make everything look better, plus, you’ll have a clearer view of your stuff when you need it.
Tips for Installing Stacked Kitchen Cabinets
While you can definitely try installing stacked cabinets yourself, it’s usually a good idea to hire a professional for the job. They’ll make sure everything is mounted securely, aligned properly, and safe to use. Plus, they’ll take care of all the tricky parts, like making sure your cabinets can handle the weight. A little extra cost now will give you peace of mind down the road.
How Much Does Stacking in a Kitchen Cabinet Cost?
If you’re thinking about adding stacked cabinets, you might be wondering how much it’ll set you back. Well, it varies. If you’re doing it yourself, expect to spend around $1,700 for materials. If you’re hiring a pro to do the work, the cost will likely be between $3,000 and $5,000 (or even more), depending on the materials and size. But when you think about the extra storage and style you get, it’s definitely worth the investment.
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Conclusion
Stacking in a kitchen cabinet is one of the smartest ways to give your kitchen a makeover. Not only do you get more storage, but it also makes your kitchen look better. Whether you have high ceilings or a smaller kitchen, stacked cabinets can fit in. With a little thought about design and materials, you can create a kitchen that’s organized, stylish, and easy to maintain. So, if you’re ready to make your kitchen work harder for you, stacked cabinets are the way to go!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Stacked Kitchen Cabinets
1. Are stacked kitchen cabinets suitable for all kitchen sizes?
Answer: Stacked cabinets work best in kitchens with ceiling heights of 9 feet or more. For smaller kitchens, they might make the space feel cramped. It’s essential to consider your specific kitchen dimensions and consult with a design professional to determine the best approach.
2. How much additional storage can I expect from stacked cabinets?
Answer: Typically, stacked cabinets can increase your kitchen storage by 30-50%, depending on your ceiling height and cabinet configuration. They provide an excellent solution for storing less-frequently used items like seasonal cookware, specialty appliances, or decorative pieces.
3. How do I maintain and clean stacked cabinets?
Answer: Maintenance tips include:
- Regular dusting with a microfiber cloth
- Using a step ladder for safe cleaning
- Avoiding harsh chemicals
- Wiping down surfaces monthly
- Checking for any loose hinges or hardware
- Using glass cleaner for glass-front cabinets
- Ensuring proper ventilation to prevent moisture buildup
