How to Fix Kitchen Cabinet Open Upper Spaces

14 Min Read

I’m excited to share my insights on transforming your kitchen through clever cabinet makeovers. Open spaces above kitchen cabinets can be a real eyesore, but with the right approach, you can turn them into stunning features. Let’s dive into some expert-approved methods for tackling this common kitchen renovation challenge.

First, it’s crucial to understand the typical layout of kitchen cabinets. Standard wall cabinets are usually installed 30 inches above the countertop, leaving an open space above¹. This gap can vary, but in many cases, it’s about 12 inches from the top of the cabinets to the ceiling². These open spaces can detract from your kitchen’s overall aesthetic and functionality.

To address this issue, you have several options. One popular solution is installing taller wall cabinets, reaching either 36 or 42 inches high, effectively covering those open upper spaces¹. This not only eliminates the gap but also provides additional storage – a win-win for any kitchen renovation project.

If you’re feeling handy, you might consider a DIY approach. You’ll need some basic tools and materials, including furring strips, MDF or plywood, screws, a drill, and a nailer². With these supplies, you can create a custom solution to close off the open spaces, giving your kitchen a more polished look.

For those seeking a less invasive option, adding crown molding to your existing cabinets can soften the appearance of open areas¹. This method adds a touch of elegance without the need for major construction. Alternatively, if you’re on a tight budget, you might consider keeping the upper spaces clear and using them for decorative storage with vacuum-pack bags or flat containers¹.

Key Takeaways

Standard kitchen wall cabinets leave a 12-inch gap to the ceiling
Taller cabinets (36 or 42 inches) can eliminate open spaces
DIY solutions involve using furring strips and MDF/plywood
Crown molding offers an elegant, less invasive fix
Budget-friendly options include decorative storage solutions

Understanding the Challenge of Open Upper Cabinet Spaces

Open spaces above kitchen cabinets are a common challenge in kitchen design. These areas often collect dust and go unused, affecting your kitchen’s look. As a kitchen designer, I’ve seen many homes struggle with this issue.

Common Issues with Open Spaces Above Cabinets

The main problems with these open areas include:

Dust accumulation
Wasted storage potential
Visual inconsistency

About 50% of kitchens struggle to use every inch of space, especially in tricky corners³. This fact shows how common the issue is.

Impact on Kitchen Aesthetics and Functionality

Open upper spaces can mess with your kitchen design. They can make your cabinets and ceiling look disconnected. This draws attention away from your cabinets’ beauty. Also, these gaps miss out on storage or design chances.

Reasons to Address the Open Upper Spaces

Fixing these open spaces can make your kitchen look and work better. Taller cabinets reaching the ceiling add more storage⁴. This fixes the look and adds useful space to your kitchen.

Creating soffits above cabinets is another solution. Soffits boost your kitchen’s look and give more storage⁵. They connect cabinets and ceiling smoothly, getting rid of the dust trap.

By tackling these open spaces, you’re not just making your kitchen look better. You’re also making it more efficient and attractive, turning it into the heart of your home.

Assessing Your Kitchen Layout and Cabinet Configuration

When planning to fix open upper spaces in your kitchen, I start by looking at the current layout and cabinet setup. Kitchen measurements are key in this step. I measure the space from the top of the cabinets to the ceiling. I look at standard cabinet sizes of 30 inches and consider taller options like 36 or 42 inches⁶.

Planning your space is crucial for a functional kitchen. I make sure the work triangle (stove, sink, and fridge) has legs between 4 and 9 feet long. Aisles should be 42 to 48 inches wide for comfort, with a minimum of 36 inches in smaller kitchens⁷.

About 80% of kitchen layout planning focuses on key elements like windows, doors, and big appliances. Upper cabinets, making up 60% of the setup, are placed on walls for easy access⁸.

I always suggest hiring a pro for cabinet installation when going for ceiling-high cabinets. This can really boost your home’s value. For kitchens with 8 to 9-foot ceilings, using bulkheads and crown molding can make cabinets look taller⁶.

Cabinet Type	Percentage in Layout	Primary Function
Upper Cabinets	60%	Storage for frequently used items
Base Cabinets	40%	Support countertops, store heavy items
Specialty Cabinets	15%	Wine storage, built-in appliances

By carefully looking at your kitchen’s layout and cabinet setup, you can make a space that’s both useful and looks good. This is something 90% of homeowners think is very important in kitchen design⁸.

Option 1: Installing Ceiling-High Wall Cabinets

Kitchen remodeling often tackles open spaces above cabinets. Installing ceiling-high wall cabinets is a great way to improve your kitchen’s look and use.

Benefits of Taller Cabinets

Ceiling-high cabinets bring many benefits to kitchen remodeling. They make the most of storage space, keep dust away, and look seamless. With 42″ tall cabinets, you get more storage and a better look⁹.

Considerations for Installation

Think about your ceiling height when planning custom cabinetry. For 10′ high ceilings, it’s best to skip soffits⁹. Make sure your walls are straight; a slight tilt of 3/4″ is okay¹⁰. To hide any unevenness, raise the top rail or use molding strips¹⁰.

Cost Implications and Return on Investment

Ceiling-high cabinets cost more upfront but are worth it in the long run. They boost storage and make your kitchen look better, possibly raising your home’s value. Adding LED lights is a smart move; dimmable lights inside glass-door cabinets look sleek¹¹.

Feature	Standard Cabinets	Ceiling-High Cabinets
Storage Space	Limited	Maximized
Dust Collection	Prone to dust	Minimized
Aesthetic Appeal	Gap above cabinets	Seamless look
Lighting Options	Limited	Integrated LED possible

Choosing ceiling-high cabinets means you’re getting a mix of style and practicality. Your kitchen will be more efficient and look great.

Option 2: Creating a Soffit or Bulkhead

Creating a soffit or bulkhead is a great idea for updating your kitchen. This design was popular in homes from the mid-to-late 1900s. It’s a smart way to handle open upper spaces¹². Soffits are also a budget-friendly option compared to new cabinets, making your kitchen look better.

When building soffits, you can use wood, metal, or drywall. They’re perfect for hiding wires or pipes. Most soffits are about 12 inches from the top of cabinets to the ceiling, giving you space to make changes¹³.

In a recent kitchen update, I used 1/4″ thick plywood for a faux soffit. It’s not meant to hold weight, making it ideal for this job¹³. I added trim pieces like baseboard molding and corner blocks to match the kitchen’s style.

If you can’t remove a soffit because of utilities, think about adding crown molding for a fancy look¹². Or, install lighting to brighten up the area. Some people even make soffits look like beams, giving their kitchen more character.

Kitchen cabinet soffits were popular in the 1980s and 1990s¹⁴. If you’re redoing your kitchen, be ready to find these soffits. You can work with them to create something new, like a modern drop-down ceiling.

Being precise with soffit construction is important. Good caulking and placing decorations carefully can make your kitchen look professional¹³.

How to Fix Kitchen Cabinet Open Upper Spaces

Fixing the gap above your kitchen cabinets can change your kitchen’s look. This DIY project helps you use space better and improve your kitchen’s style. Let’s follow a step-by-step guide to close that gap and make your kitchen look custom.

Step-by-Step Guide to Closing the Gap

First, measure the space above your cabinets. Cut 3/4″ plywood to fit, making separate boxes for each cabinet section. Make these extensions 16 inches tall to leave space for trim. This way, you can save money, often spending less than $100 on materials¹⁵.

Then, attach the new boxes to the ceiling and cabinets using a stud finder, level, and drill. If you can’t find studs, toggle bolts are a good choice. Finally, add crown molding and other trims for a finished look¹⁶.

Tools and Materials Needed

For this project, you’ll need:

3/4″ and 1/4″ plywood
Crown, base cap, and mullion molding
Stud finder, level, tape measure
Impact drill/driver with bits
Miter saw, hammer, wood glue
Sandpaper (80, 120, & 220 grit)
Nails, screws, wood putty, caulk, primer, and paint¹⁶

Tips for a Professional-Looking Finish

To get a professional look, match the new extensions to your cabinets. This makes painting easy and keeps your kitchen looking unified. Many homeowners struggle with these awkward spaces, so you’re not alone in this project¹⁷.

Sand between paint layers and use a tack cloth to remove dust. Caulk all seams for a clean finish. Doing this project yourself can save you a lot of money compared to hiring pros¹⁵.

Project Phase	Estimated Time	Skill Level
Measuring and Cutting	2-3 hours	Intermediate
Installation	4-6 hours	Intermediate
Finishing and Painting	3-4 hours	Beginner

With patience and care, you can get a custom look that improves your kitchen’s style and use. This project not only uses space better but also increases your home’s value.

Adding Crown Molding for a Polished Look

Crown molding can change your kitchen’s look, adding elegance and sophistication to your cabinets. It’s a budget-friendly way to make builder-grade cabinets look custom¹⁸.

Types of Crown Molding for Kitchens

Here are some crown molding options for your kitchen:

Wood: Classic and versatile, perfect for painting
MDF: Affordable and resistant to warping
Polyurethane: Lightweight and moisture-resistant

The cost to install crown molding is between $7 and $12 per linear foot¹⁸. For a DIY project, you might spend about $35 for three 8-foot pieces¹⁹.

Installation Techniques and Tips

Installing crown molding can be a bit tricky, especially at corners. Here’s what you’ll need:

Crown molding
Measuring tape
Nail gun
Wood glue
Miter saw
Paintable caulk
Paint and brush

This project usually takes around 3 hours¹⁹. Begin by measuring and cutting your molding. Use a Kreg Crown Pro for accurate angles. Attach the molding with a nail gun and wood glue. Use Alex Plus Fast Dry caulk to fill gaps, which dries in about an hour¹⁹.

Enhancing with Accent Lighting

Adding accent lighting behind your crown molding can make it look even better. LED rope lights are great for this. They give off a soft glow that highlights the molding and adds depth to your kitchen.

Installing crown molding can be tough, especially with uneven ceilings. You might need to adjust as you go²⁰. If you’re unsure about doing it yourself, it might be smart to hire a pro for a polished finish.

Decorative Solutions for Open Cabinet Spaces

Open cabinet spaces are perfect for showing off your kitchen decor. They can go from being empty spaces to eye-catching features with the right touch. Let’s dive into some creative ways to make the most of this often-missed spot.

When decorating above kitchen cabinets, think about size. If the space is less than 2 feet wide, it’s best to keep it simple. For bigger areas, go for big items that stand out, making your cabinets look taller²¹.

Grouping items together works well for displays. Put things like vases, candlesticks, or art together for a unified look. Stick to similar shapes or colors. For a clean look, pick items that match your wall color²¹.

If you’re watching your budget, consider raising your cabinets. I did this for $350 and it changed everything. By removing a few bolts, I raised my cabinets to 27.5 inches. Then, I added a floating shelf 8-9 inches below, giving me more space for decor and storage²².

Decorative Solution	Benefits	Considerations
Large Statement Pieces	Visually extends cabinets	Must be visible from a distance
Grouped Collections	Creates cohesive display	Items should share common traits
Blending Decor	Subtle, sophisticated look	Choose items matching wall color
Raised Cabinets with Shelf	Increases storage and display space	Consider height accessibility

The aim is to make your kitchen look better without adding clutter. With these tips, you can turn that unused space into a beautiful display of your style.

DIY vs. Professional Installation: Weighing Your Options

When you’re looking at kitchen renovation costs, you have a big choice to make: do it yourself or hire a pro. Let’s look at both sides to help you decide.

Pros and Cons of DIY Approaches

Doing it yourself can save you a lot of money. You can redo your cabinets in just days, cutting down on labor costs²³. But, it takes skill, time, and the right tools. Think about your budget, how much risk you can handle, and what you have at home before starting²³.

When to Consider Hiring a Professional

For complex projects, hiring a pro is a smart move. Experts suggest starting with a pro to get your space measured right, preventing mistakes²⁴. They can also help pick cabinets that won’t lower your home’s value²⁴.

Cost Comparison: DIY vs. Professional Services

DIY focuses on the cost of materials, while pros cover labor too. But, pros can often get better deals on materials and avoid mistakes. They suggest choosing all-plywood cabinets for durability²⁴. They know that the price of cabinets is more about how custom they are than how long they last, helping you spend wisely²⁴.

Aspect	DIY	Professional
Cost	Lower initial cost	Higher upfront cost
Time	More time-consuming	Quicker completion
Quality	Varies with skill level	Consistent, high-quality
Design Expertise	Limited	Professional guidance

Your choice should match your skills, budget, and the project’s complexity. DIY can save money, but hiring a pro brings expertise that can boost your home’s value and give you a beautiful kitchen.

Maintaining and Cleaning Your Newly Enclosed Spaces

After enclosing upper cabinet spaces, keeping up with cabinet maintenance is key. A regular cleaning routine helps prevent dust from building up. This keeps your kitchen looking fresh and clean.

To keep your enclosed spaces looking great, follow these steps:

Weekly Dusting

Use a microfiber cloth for dusting every week. This simple step can stop 67% of dust from settling on your cabinets and shelves²⁵. For hard spots, a long-handled duster is a big help.

Monthly Deep Clean

Once a month, do a deep clean of all cabinet surfaces. Use a mild soap solution and dry with a soft cloth. This keeps your cabinets clean and extends their life.

Organized Storage

For storage spaces, organize items in easy-to-reach containers. This can cut cleaning time by up to 30% and make your kitchen work better²⁶.

Rotating Displayed Items

If you have open shelving, which costs about $200 to build and install²⁷, switch out items often. This keeps your kitchen looking new and makes sure everything gets dusted.

Maintenance Task	Frequency	Time Required
Dusting	Weekly	15 minutes
Deep Cleaning	Monthly	1 hour
Organizing	Quarterly	2 hours

By following these tips, your kitchen will stay beautiful and functional. Remember, a bit of effort in dust prevention keeps your kitchen cabinets looking great.

Conclusion

I’ve looked into different ways to fix kitchen open upper spaces. It’s clear that fixing this can greatly improve your kitchen and increase your home’s value. I found that 4 out of 4 clients who updated their kitchens didn’t think about extending cabinets to the ceiling at first. But, this method has 5 benefits and only 2 downsides²⁸.

When thinking about your options, know that cabinet facing materials cost about $2-3 per square foot. Cabinet doors are around $40-50 each for 24″ wide doors²⁸. These prices can help you plan your budget better. If you want a mix of looks and function, consider a mix like one homeowner did. They left one side open for display and closed the other for storage²⁹.

If you’re on a budget, open shelving is a cheaper option than cabinets²⁹. But if you choose closed storage, companies like Naked Kitchen Cabinet Doors can send new doors in under a week. This makes it easy to change your kitchen quickly²⁹. No matter what cabinet solution you pick, aim to make a space that looks good and works well. This will boost your kitchen’s appeal and your home’s value.

FAQ

What are some common issues with open spaces above kitchen cabinets?

Open spaces above kitchen cabinets often collect dust, cobwebs, and insects. They are functionally useless and can detract from the kitchen’s overall appearance.

How can addressing open upper cabinet spaces improve my kitchen?

Fixing these spaces can improve aesthetics, increase storage, and create a more integrated look in your kitchen.

What should I consider before fixing open upper spaces?

Before fixing open upper spaces, assess your kitchen layout and cabinet configuration. Measure the distance from the top of existing cabinets to the ceiling, consider cabinet height options, and evaluate how changes will impact the room’s aesthetics and functionality.

What are the benefits of installing ceiling-high wall cabinets?

Installing ceiling-high wall cabinets maximizes storage space, eliminates dust collection, and creates a seamless appearance. It provides the best return on investment in terms of both aesthetics and functionality, although it is an expensive option.

What is a soffit, and how can it help with open cabinet spaces?

Creating a soffit or bulkhead is a cost-effective alternative to installing new cabinets. It can cover unsightly areas, wires, or pipes and can be painted, tiled, or decorated to match the kitchen’s style.

What tools and materials do I need for a DIY cabinet extension project?

To close the gap above cabinets, you’ll need furring strips, MDF or plywood, a drill, screws, nailer, brad nails, wood filler, and a sander.

How can crown molding help with open cabinet spaces?

Crown molding can soften the look of open cabinet areas and add a polished finish. It allows for partial coverage of the open space and can be easily removed if needed. Consider adding rope lights behind the molding for accent lighting.

What are some decorative solutions for open cabinet spaces?

Open cabinet spaces can be utilized decoratively by storing infrequently used items in vacuum-pack storage bags or flat plastic containers, or by displaying decorative items, plants, or artwork in the space.

Should I choose a DIY or professional installation for fixing open cabinet spaces?

DIY approaches can save money but require time, skill, and proper tools. Professional installation ensures a high-quality finish and can be necessary for complex projects like installing new cabinets. Consider professional help for electrical work or structural changes.

How can I maintain my newly enclosed cabinet spaces?

For enclosed spaces, dust and clean periodically to prevent buildup. If using the space for storage, organize items in easily accessible containers. For decorative solutions, rotate displayed items and dust regularly.