How do you use high ceilings for storage?

Having high ceilings in your home can provide wonderful design flexibility and make rooms feel more spacious and airy. However, those lofty heights can also feel like wasted space if not utilized properly. One great way to take advantage of high ceilings is by incorporating storage solutions overhead to free up floor and wall space below. With some creative thinking and well-chosen storage systems, you can maximize every inch of your high ceilings.

Can I install storage shelves near the ceiling?

Yes, installing shelving units near the ceiling is one of the most common and effective ways to use the extra vertical space provided by high ceilings. Sturdy, wall-mounted shelving can be installed at any height and provides direct overhead storage. The optimal height for overhead shelving will depend on the ceiling height and your personal reach, but typically you’ll want to install the shelves 12-18 inches below the ceiling. This provides easy access while still using the full ceiling height. Just be sure the shelves and mounting brackets are rated to handle the weight you plan to store.

What about ceiling-height cabinets or wardrobes?

Floor-to-ceiling storage cabinets and wardrobes are another great option for utilizing vertical space. These storage units come in standardized heights up to about 10 feet tall, so they can take full advantage of standard ceiling heights. Freestanding wardrobes and cabinets taller than you need can be customized by lowering the top shelf or purchasing a shorter unit. Built-in cabinetry can also be designed and installed to fit your ceiling height precisely. Going all the way to the ceiling provides shelving or hanging space for storage while maintaining a streamlined, built-in look.

Can I use overhead racks or garage storage solutions?

Heavy-duty overhead storage racks and systems provide another alternative for high ceiling storage. Metal utility racks with adjustable shelves are a classic option that can handle a lot of weight. Wire shelving, like you’d find in a garage or workshop, can also be ceiling-mounted. For laundry rooms, specialized drying racks mount overhead and lift up out of the way. In a garage or basement workshop, pulley systems allow you to lift gear up and out of the way. Any of these systems can be installed at the optimal height to take advantage of your full ceiling height while keeping items conveniently accessible.

What about ceiling-height doors or curtains?

In addition to shelving and cabinetry, you can also take advantage of high ceilings by installing full-height doors, partitions, or curtains. Floor-to-ceiling doors or partitions help delineate spaces while still allowing an open feel overhead. Tall curtains can be closed to hide shelves or cabinets or create a sense of coziness in rooms with dramatically high ceilings. The vertical lines and sense of height provided by full-length doors and curtains complement high ceilings beautifully while also creating new storage possibilities behind the curtains or doors.

Can I build a storage loft or platform?

If you have ceiling heights greater than 10 feet, consider building a storage loft or platform. These overhead platforms are accessed by a ladder or staircase and framed in at ceiling height to create an elevated storage nook. Build the platform along the entire perimeter of a room or as a divider between adjacent spaces. Storage lofts work well above closets, pantries, laundry rooms, or multimedia centers to maximize vertical storage. Just be sure to account for minimum clearances and leave sufficient height underneath the loft – typically 8 feet or more.

Are there specific products made for high ceiling storage?

Several storage systems on the market are specially designed with extra tall or high ceiling applications in mind:

• Adjustable-height wire and metal shelving systems
• Extra tall storage cabinets and wardrobes
• Ceiling-height tension rod systems for hanging clothes or linens overhead
• Telescoping rods for curtains or hanging storage
• Extra long library ladders on rollers
• Vertical lifts like cargo lifts or dumbwaiters for transporting items

Looking for these specialized products can make it easier to maximize and access overhead storage space.

What are some room-by-room high ceiling storage ideas?

Here are some examples of great overhead storage solutions for various rooms:

Living Room

• Display collectibles and decor on floating shelves
• Hide media components on taller shelving units
• Use height for a two-story library with rolling ladder

Kitchen

• Store small appliances on ceiling-height shelves
• Hang a pot rack overhead
• Add upper cabinets with glass-front doors

Bedroom

• Install overhead racks or rods for clothing storage
• Hide out-of-season clothes overhead
• Build overhead bookshelves

Bathroom

• Stack towels on wall-mounted shelving
• Store bathroom essentials in medicine cabinets to the ceiling
• Hang curtains or a partition from ceiling to floor

Home Office

• Maximize storage with floor-to-ceiling built-ins
• Display awards and memorabilia up high
• Shelve extra files, office supplies and equipment overhead

What kind of floor plans take advantage of high ceilings?

Certain home floor plans and layouts that incorporate high ceilings can more readily take advantage of overhead storage options:

• Open concept – Vaulted ceiling heights promote flow between rooms
• Loft – Exposed overhead structure is ideal for integrated storage
• Cathedral – Sloped ceiling planes allow built-in storage nooks
• Two-story – High foyer and staircase provide vertical storage opportunities
• Studio – Lofty height helps delineate spaces with curtains and storage

Home additions like vaults, skylights, and sunrooms also typically feature increased ceiling height perfect for overhead storage.

What kind of ceilings work best?

Not all ceiling types are equally suited for overhead storage solutions. Here are some of the best ceiling choices:

• Flat – Even flat planes are ideal for installing shelves, cabinets, etc.
• Vaulted – Angled vaults provide excellent height at edges for floor-to-ceiling storage
• Tray – Stepped tray style allows built-in shelving within the steps
• Cathedral – Sloped planes perfect for custom cabinetry and lofts
• Coffered – Square coffers easily accommodate shelving between beams

Avoid low-hanging beams, pipes, ductwork or other obstructions. Also consider insulation, wiring routes, and accessibility when planning overhead storage.

What are some tips for high ceiling storage?

Follow these tips for safe, functional overhead storage:

• Choose storage elements rated for the weight load
• Install adequate lighting so you can see stored items
• Place heaviest items on lower shelves for stability
• Allow proper clearance from ceiling and around lights/vents
• Use ladders or lifts for safe access when needed
• Secure shelving and cabinets to studs in wall/ceiling
• Plan storage layout carefully around pipes, ducts, wiring, etc

Proper planning is key. Measure carefully, account for clearances and obstructions, and follow all building codes. Consulting an architect, interior designer or contractor is advisable for more complex overhead storage projects.

What are some safety precautions?

Exercise common sense and follow safety best practices when working at height:

• Use sturdy ladders and step stools with care
• Have someone support ladder while working overhead
• Don’t overreach – climb down and reposition ladders as needed
• Wear protective eye gear when installing overhead
• Use fall protection equipment if working far above floor level
• Work with an assistant for large or heavy items
• Inspect shelves and mounts regularly for stability

Falling tools, parts or installation equipment can also pose hazards. Clear area beneath workspace, work carefully, and use spotters when needed.

How much weight can overhead shelves hold?

Load capacity depends on several factors:

• Type of shelving material (metal, wood, plastic, etc)
• Bracket and fastener type
• Spacing between supports
• Shelf depth and thickness
• Mounting method (into studs, drywall anchors, concrete, etc)

As a general guideline for wall-mounted shelving:

• Heavy duty metal shelf brackets can hold 150-300 lbs each
• Wood board shelves 1″ thick can hold about 50 lbs per linear foot
• Plastic laminate shelves 1″ thick hold around 20-30 lbs per linear foot

Consult manufacturer rated capacities. Test first with light loads. Overloading shelves is a safety hazard – so allow for plenty of capacity cushion.

What are the cost factors?

Costs for overhead storage solutions depend on:

• Prefabricated vs custom built
• Type of materials and finishes
• Size and complexity of project
• Professional installation fees if applicable
• Structural factors like load-bearing requirements
• Permitting costs if extensive structural, electrical or HVAC work needed

As a rough estimate, simple DIY overhead shelving can cost $50-$100 per linear foot. More complex built-in cabinetry or storage infrastructure could range from $3,000-$10,000 or more depending on specifics. Consult contractors for estimates on custom projects.

Conclusion

High ceilings offer wonderful chances to think outside the box when it comes to storage. Take advantage of all that headroom overhead to free up floor space and create a sense of volume. Maximize every inch with wall-mounted shelving units, overhead cabinets, storage platforms, and full-height partitions or curtains. Be creative with storage solutions like pulley lifts, wardrobes and utility racks. High ceiling storage not only looks great, but also makes your space more functional and enjoyable. Just be sure to plan carefully and follow safety precautions when working and storing at height.