High ceilings are a staple in many New Orleans homes. And as much as we love the airy, elegant feel that they can bring to a kitchen, sometimes it can feel like a little more storage would be a better use of space.
But believe it or not, you can have the best of both worlds with stacked cabinets!
Stacked cabinets are exactly what they sound like: two sets of cabinets, stacked on top of each other. Considering how many people are continually looking for ways to create additional storage, stacked cabinets are a great way to achieve that.
With traditional 8-foot ceilings, cabinets could only be 30” high to account for the space. But with higher ceilings, cabinets can be 48” to even 60” high–doubling the amount of storage space you can work with! More and more homeowners are utilizing that extra space above the standard height cabinets by adding a second set all the way up to the ceiling.
So if you’re looking for creative ways to use that ceiling space, here are some reasons to consider installing stacked cabinets.
An Elegant Way To Fill The Space
While some like the airiness of a high-ceilinged kitchen, others find it to be a great void of space. Stacked cabinets act as an excellent space-filler, giving the illusion of a larger kitchen while keeping the space open. It will also give your kitchen a one-of-a-kind feel; when people walk in, they’ll know that this space belongs to you!
And, on a more practical note, filling the empty space with stacked cabinets means you won’t have to worry about dusting the top of your cabinet shelves anymore!
More Storage Is Always Better
The height of a second row of cabinets can make it seem like they’re only there for decoration. After all, you don’t want to have to get a step ladder to grab a coffee mug! Singer Kitchens designer Cat Kennedy warns, “Stacked cabinets add elegance, but mostly for show or looks rather than function, as the upper row is fairly difficult to access.”
However, while you wouldn’t want to put your everyday kitchen tools in the upper levels, there are plenty of ways to utilize the extra storage space.
Seasonal decor and dishware for special occasions can be stored out of the way, freeing up space closer to the ground for the things you’ll actually use on a regular basis.
You can even install glass doors on your cabinets and use them to display special items or heirloom dishware. That way, you get a display that showcases your unique personality and taste as well as a convenient way to store them when they’re not being used.
Are Stacked Cabinets In Your Kitchen’s Future?
If your ceiling is high enough, it’s well worth the investment–both for current use and if you ever plan to sell your home. But make no mistake, it is an investment. “Stacked cabinets add cost to the overall price of the kitchen,” says Kennedy, “but it’s a great way to bring attention to the gorgeous high ceilings that are a feature of many New Orleans homes.”
And if stability is something you’re concerned about, stacked cabinets are popular enough that most cabinet companies have started creating tall wall cabinets that mimic the appearance of stacked cabinets–so you get all the aesthetic appeal of two cabinets with the stability of a single one.
If you need some inspiration, take a look at a few of our past renovations to see how stacked cabinets look in a kitchen. Better yet, make an appointment to visit one of our showrooms for an in-person look at how stacked cabinets can elevate a space.
If you’re ready to jump in, give us a call today to request a free design consultation, and let’s make the kitchen of your dreams a reality!
