How do I make my kitchen cabinets go to the ceiling?

Quick Answer

There are a few options for making your kitchen cabinets go all the way up to the ceiling:

• Install taller base cabinets – Many cabinet manufacturers offer 36-42 inch tall base cabinets that will reach standard 8 ft ceilings.
• Add a soffit – Build out the wall above the cabinets to close the gap to the ceiling.
• Extend existing cabinets – Order cabinet extensions that attach to the top of your existing cabinets.
• Remove soffits – If you have soffits that lower the ceiling height, consider removing them to gain a few extra inches.

The best option will depend on your existing cabinet height, ceiling height, and budget. Professional installation is recommended to ensure the cabinets are properly secured and level.

The Benefits of Full-Height Kitchen Cabinets

Going with full-height kitchen cabinets that reach all the way to the ceiling provides several advantages:

• Maximizes storage space – Taking cabinets all the way up makes use of every inch of available space.
• Cleaner look – A full wall of cabinets creates a more streamlined, built-in appearance.
• Easier cleaning – Having cabinets flush with the ceiling means there are no dusty ledges to collect grease and grime.
• Added property value – Full-height cabinets are considered a high-end feature and can add value to your home.

In addition to the clean, seamless look, reaching for those often hard-to-access items will be much easier with cabinets that extend closer to the ceiling. Full-extension drawers and pull-down shelving can provide full access to everything stored in upper cabinets.

How High are Standard Kitchen Cabinets?

The standard height for base kitchen cabinets that sit on the floor is 34 1/2 inches. Upper cabinets typically start about 18 inches above the counter and come in standard heights of 30, 36, and 42 inches tall.

This means if you have 8 foot ceilings, a typical kitchen layout with 30 inch upper cabinets and 4 inch backsplashes would leave a 10-12 inch gap between the top of the cabinets and the ceiling.

Closing this gap is mostly an aesthetic choice to create a built-in look. However, accessibility can suffer if the ceiling is too low. Cabinets installed too close to the ceiling will make items stored in back hard to reach.

Standard Kitchen Cabinet Heights

Cabinet Type	Standard Height
Base Cabinets	34 1/2 inches
Upper Cabinets	30, 36, or 42 inches
Ceiling Height	96 inches (8 feet)

How to Make Base Cabinets Reach the Ceiling

To make your base cabinets reach all the way to the ceiling, you need to determine how much higher your existing cabinets need to go.

Start by measuring the height of your current base cabinets and subtract that from the height of your kitchen ceiling. This will tell you how much additional cabinet height you need.

For example, if you have the standard 34 1⁄2 inch base cabinets and a 96 inch (8 foot) ceiling:

• Ceiling height = 96 inches
• Base cabinet height = 34 1/2 inches
• Needed additional height = 96 – 34.5 = 61.5 inches

So you’ll need base cabinets that are about 61.5 inches tall instead of the standard 34 1/2 height.

You have a few options to get base cabinets that tall:

1. Buy extra tall base cabinets

Many cabinet manufacturers now offer full-height base cabinets up to 42 inches or even 48 inches for high ceilings. Tall cabinets can be specialty ordered through your cabinet supplier.

The cabinets will likely come with unfinished tops that get cut to size during installation. Trim pieces are then used to close any gaps at the ceiling.

2. Install two base cabinets stacked

Another option is to install two standard base cabinets on top of each other. The upper cabinet gets attached directly to the wall, with the bottom cabinet supporting it below.

Filler panels or additional trim pieces hide the seams between the stacked cabinets. The upper cabinet doors can be aligned or staggered from the lower doors for different looks.

3. Build custom extra-tall cabinets

For a custom built-in look, have a carpenter build base frame cabinets to your exact ceiling height specs. Stock cabinets can then be installed into the frames with filler panels closing side gaps.

One benefit of full custom cabinets is they can be built around ductwork, pipes, and other obstacles that get in the way of stock cabinet sizes.

How to Make Wall Cabinets Reach the Ceiling

There are also several good options for extending regular sized wall cabinets all the way up to the ceiling:

1. Order taller upper cabinets

Like base cabinets, you can have wall mounted kitchen cabinets custom made in taller 36, 42, or even 48 inch sizes to fit your ceiling height.

Taller uppers should be reinforced with additional screws into wall studs to securely hold the extra weight. Freestanding cabinets may require additional legs or support.

2. Install cabinet extensions

Rather than replacing your current cabinets, you can add cabinet extensions directly on top of them. Extensions come sized specifically for each cabinet width.

The extension boxes attach to the top of the cabinet and finish off the space up to the ceiling. Trim filler panels hide any gaps on the sides.

3. Build a soffit

Framing out a boxed soffit above the wall cabinets is another simple way to close any gaps.

Soffits can be made from wood, gypsum board, or crown molding trim and painted to match or accent the cabinets. Diffused strip lighting can also be installed in the soffit.

How Much Do Taller Kitchen Cabinets Cost?

On average, expect to pay the following for full-height kitchen cabinets:

• Taller base cabinets – $200-$500 per cabinet
• Upper cabinet extensions – $100-$300 per cabinet
• Custom built cabinet frames – $150+ per linear foot
• Professional installation – $50-$100 per hour

So closing a 10 foot long kitchen wall with base and wall cabinet extensions could run $2,000-$4,000 or more depending on materials. DIY installation will save on labor costs.

The investment may be worthwhile for the added storage space and aesthetic appeal of cabinets that reach the ceiling. Get multiple quotes to find the best value.

How to Tell If You Have Room for Tall Cabinets

Before committing to taller kitchen cabinets, it’s important to make sure you have adequate room for them. Here are some key measurements to check:

Ceiling Height

Measure from the floor to the lowest part of the ceiling or any ducts, pipes, or beams that stick down. Subtract the height of the tallest cabinets you plan to install. There should be at least 18-24 inches of clearance above the cabinets.

Ventilation Space

Leave adequate ventilation space for your range hood – typically 30-36 inches above cooktop level. Make sure tall cabinets won’t interfere.

Window and Door Trims

To keep your cabinets flush on the sides, window and door casings may need to be removed and reinstalled extended outward after the new cabinets are in.

Corner Clearances

With open cabinet doors, make sure there is enough clearance for them to fully open without hitting each other or walls.

Should You Remove Soffits to Gain Height?

If your kitchen has soffits – those dropped sections of ceiling – removing them can sometimes provide the extra inches needed for full height cabinets.

However, before taking out soffits, check that:

• They are not covering up important ventilation, wiring, or plumbing.
• Eliminating them will not change the room proportions in an unappealing way.
• The expense and work to remove and patch them is worthwhile for the height gain.

Minor soffits like above a sink or range may be relatively easy to remove. But larger structural soffits integrated into the ceiling framing are often best left in place.

Inspect what’s inside the soffits and consult contractors to see if removal is feasible. The existing lighting, ductwork etc will need relocating which can drive up costs.

Installing Kitchen Cabinets to the Ceiling Yourself

While hiring professionals is usually worth the investment, installing kitchen cabinets to the ceiling yourself is possible if you are fairly handy. Here are some tips:

• Carefully measure and lay out the new cabinet placement.
• Have an assistant to help lift and hold cabinets in place.
• Secure cabinets to studs in the wall and ceiling with long screws.
• Use shims between cabinets and walls for straight installation.
• Fill any gaps around cabinets with trim pieces.
• Cut cabinet tops carefully for an accurate fit.

Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for properly mounting and securing the tall cabinets. Rushing the job or missing studs can lead to loose cabinets that fall or tip over.

Also consider the complexity of removing old soffits, relocating plumbing and electrical, and installing new flooring or countertops. Getting professional help for the tricky parts may be wise for DIYers.

Pros and Cons of Kitchen Cabinets to the Ceiling

Going through the effort of installing taller kitchen cabinets has both advantages and possible drawbacks depending on your situation:

Pros

• Maximizes storage space
• Creates a built-in, furniture-like look
• Easier to keep clean with no dust-catching ledges
• Can increase resale value of home

Cons

• Reduced accessibility if ceiling is too low
• More expensive than standard height cabinets
• Many existing kitchen elements may need adjusting
• Changing light fixtures is more difficult

If achieving the streamlined, gap-free look of ceiling height cabinets appeals to you, the extra work and investment can be justified. Just be sure to carefully plan the project to avoid any clearance or accessibility issues.

Increasing Storage with Clever Cabinets

Besides just making your cabinets taller, there are also some smart storage options to maximize the space:

• Roll-out trays – Make deep cabinet interiors fully accessible.
• Pull-down shelves – Easily reach the back of wall cabinets.
• Waste bin compartments – Hide garbage/recycling bins in base cabinets.
• Spice drawers – Organize spices and jars conveniently.
• appliance garages – Store countertop appliances behind cabinet doors.

With some clever cabinetry, you can access every inch of space from top to bottom. An experienced kitchen designer can help incorporate storage innovations into your new ceiling-high design.

Alternatives to Full-Height Cabinets

If your ceiling height or budget won’t allow for floor-to-ceiling cabinets, here are a couple alternatives to consider:

Partial Soffits

Rather than close the entire gap, build out a soffit above the cabinets that comes partway down. This can give a nice architectural detail while requiring less cabinet height.

Taller Backsplashes

Extending your backsplash from the standard 4-6 inches up to 12, 16 or even full-height can visually minimize the space above cabinets. Use tile, stone, or creative materials.

Shelving

Open shelving spanning from cabinets to ceiling can add useful space while creating an airy, modern look. Stagger the shelves for display and design appeal.

Ceiling Beams

If you have exposed beams or can add them, letting cabinets end beneath the beams can make the transition appear more intentional rather than an awkward gap.

With some creativity, you can find alternative ways to maximize your kitchen’s vertical storage while still achieving a polished, upscale look. An interior designer can help craft the right mix of materials, lighting, and styling.

Conclusion

Getting your kitchen cabinets all the way up to the ceiling takes a bit more work and expense than standard height cabinets. But in the right setting, it can add beautiful built-in appeal while clearing up hard to reach dust and dirt traps.

Carefully measure your space, inspect for potential issues, and get professional advice before starting a ceiling-height cabinet project. The result can make your kitchen feel like a high-end, custom-designed space.

Just be sure to incorporate innovations like pull-down shelves and roll-out trays to keep every inch of space fully accessible and usable. With smart planning, you can have beautiful, custom built-in cabinets that make your kitchen more functional than ever before.