Hiding a range hood can be a tricky endeavor, but with some creative thinking and DIY skills, it is certainly possible. A range hood is an essential appliance in the kitchen that helps remove smoke, grease, odors, and moisture from the air while you cook. However, its bulky shape can disrupt the aesthetic of your kitchen and make the space feel cluttered. If you have an open concept kitchen connected to your living room or dining room, an exposed range hood sticking out can be an eyesore. Luckily, there are several clever ways to conceal your range hood that still allow it to function properly. This article will explore the most popular methods for how to discreetly hide your range hood using covers, built-ins, paint, or strategic vent placement.
Page Contents
- 1 Why Would You Want to Hide Your Range Hood?
- 2 Considerations Before Hiding Your Range Hood
- 3 How to Hide a Range Hood
- 4 Creative Examples and Ideas
- 5 FAQs
- 5.1 Do I still need ventilation if I hide the range hood?
- 5.2 What if my ceiling is too low to enclose my range hood?
- 5.3 Is it safe to use filler panels around the range hood? Yes, provided the materials are fire-rated and placed at least 4 inches from the sides of the hood. Use metal or cement board panels for fire safety. How do I clean or change bulbs in a concealed hood?
- 5.4 What’s the best way to hide ductwork?
- 6 Conclusion
Why Would You Want to Hide Your Range Hood?
There are several reasons why you may want to hide or cover up your range hood:
- You don’t like the look of it hanging down – Range hoods can appear bulky, obtrusive, or industrial looking
- It clashes with your kitchen design or style – Such as a sleek, modern or rustic kitchen
- You have an open concept kitchen connected to other rooms
- You want a seamless, integrated look for your kitchen cabinets or backsplash
- You desire a streamlined, minimalist aesthetic in your cooking space
Whatever your motivation, disguising a range hood is an effective way to increase the cohesiveness of your kitchen’s decor. When done properly, a concealed range hood will not compromise the appliance’s function but will make it less of a focal point.
Considerations Before Hiding Your Range Hood
While hiding a range hood can elevate your kitchen’s style, there are some key factors to consider first:
Ventilation Requirements
Your range hood needs adequate ventilation to work properly, so you cannot completely close it off or block the ductwork. Most experts recommend at least 300 CFM for an effective range hood exhaust. Measure your existing CFM to ensure any concealment method will not restrict airflow.
Size and Dimensions
Carefully measure the existing size of your range hood, including depth. This will determine if you can build around it or if a custom cover will fit appropriately. Also account for any wiring or plumbing.
Existing Layout and Clearances
Evaluate your current kitchen layout and confirm that you have the proper clearance above the stove to conceal the hood. You need at least 24-30 inches of clearance for most hoods. Also check for ceiling beams, soffits, or lighting that may obstruct the hood.
DIY Skills
Some concealment options like custom wood covers or soffits require intermediate carpentry skills. If you need to install new ductwork, wiring, or framing, be realistic about your DIY abilities versus hiring a professional.
Costs and Budget
Estimate the costs of supplies and labor if you cannot do all the work yourself. Concealing a range hood could cost anywhere from $50 – $2000+ depending on the method. Set a reasonable budget beforehand.
How to Hide a Range Hood
If you’ve considered the above factors, here are several excellent ways to conceal a range hood:
Use a Range Hood Cover
The fastest and easiest approach is to buy or make a simple cover that mounts over the range hood. Here are two options:
- Custom wood cover – Cut and stain a wood panel to fit over the underside of the hood. Attach with cleats for easy removal.
- Metal cover panel – Purchase a prefabricated stainless steel or colored metal panel designed to conceal range hoods.
Covers allow access for cleaning and bulbs and are the most cost-effective concealment solution. However, the hood remains visible from the side view.
Integrate into Kitchen Cabinets
Another strategy is to build out your kitchen cabinets on either side to meet in the middle, fully enclosing the range hood. There are a few ways to achieve this:
- Construct a soffit or dropped beam above the cooktop to house the hood
- Use filler panels to bridge the gap between wall cabinets
- Extend the depth of upper cabinets for a built-in look
This creates a seamless kitchen design, but requires matching the cabinetry style and custom carpentry work. Ventilation also needs to be maintained.
Add Wood Beams or Planks
Installing rustic wood beams, planks, or tongue and groove boards across the ceiling is a charming way to obscure the hood itself. Stagger the boards attractively across the hood opening. distress or stain the wood for added character.
Use Strategic Paint Colors
Painting the hood the same color as surrounding cabinets, walls or ceiling makes it visually blend in and disappear. Use the same shade and finish to unify the look. Caution that heat and grease may yellow or stain painted hoods over time.
Hide Ductwork in the Wall or Ceiling
For a completely hidden range hood, you can reroute the ductwork into wall cavities, dropped soffits, or upstairs floors. Hire a contractor to safelyconfigure ducts and install new vents. This is ideal for a built-in concealed hood but costs more.
Creative Examples and Ideas
Here are some creative examples of concealed range hoods to inspire your own kitchen:
Planked Wood Hood Cover
Dark stained wood planks bridge the stove area attractively while subtly concealing the range hood itself.
Matching Cabinet Panels
Filler panels that match the existing white cabinets on both sides fully integrate the range hood.
Contemporary Soffit Design
A dropped soffit with understated vents houses the range hood in this sleek, contemporary kitchen.
Rustic Wood Beam Hood
Rustic wood beams mounted across the ceiling conceal most of the bulky range hood elements.
FAQs
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about concealing range hoods:
Do I still need ventilation if I hide the range hood?
Yes, proper ventilation is critical for a functional range hood, even if you conceal it. Never completely close off the ducting. Look for clever ways to route and hide ductwork instead.
What if my ceiling is too low to enclose my range hood?
If you don’t meet the minimum clearance requirements, then a built-in concealment solution may not work. Opt for a cover panel or paint approach instead.