When it comes to kitchen renovations, more storage is definitely top of the must-have list. So it’s no surprise that ceiling-height kitchen cupboards are becoming more popular. 

With streamlined kitchen design on trend, the simple lines of tall wall cupboards can minimise a fussy, cluttered look and reduce maintenance too. We spoke to kitchen supplier Marvic Farrugia about the trend for ceiling height kitchen cupboards. "When the space on top of the cupboards is eliminated, there’s no dusting," says Farrugia. "There is more space for storing less used items such as spare linen, Christmas decorations and family items," he suggests. What’s not to like?

Peter Matarese, manager of a kitchen supplier, agrees. "Ceiling-height kitchen cupboards maximise storage space, so they’re popular in units and apartments", he says.  "More people are also realising the potential of high ceilings for creating kitchens with greater visual impact."

Ceiling-height cupboards are often neat and easily integrated, and can have the visual impact of a feature wall, especially if styled in on-trend colours or timber laminates. Metre-high cupboards with open shelving are another option for those keen to display favourite items.

Farrugia suggests incorporating a shadow line – this is a 16mm gap between the ceiling and the top door of the overhead – to create a modern, stylish effect. 

Safety first

But beware. If your ceilings are too tall you might need a step ladder to access your kitchen cabinets. If this is the case, consider lift-up cabinet doors instead of normal doors which can be tricky or dangerous to open when you’re perched on a ladder.

"Overhead cupboards aren’t as popular with shorter people," Matarese explains, adding "ceiling-height cupboards also are not recommended for older people because of safety concerns." If this is a concern, you might be better off installing more storage, such as drawers, low down.

Bulkheads

A bulkhead is a good option for people who don’t want ceiling-high cabinets but do want high ceilings. A bulkhead sits on top of the cupboards and stretches to the ceiling, doing away with the gap and giving the kitchen a more streamlined effect.

While elongated wall cupboards which stretch right to the ceiling can make a small kitchen seem larger than it really is, Matarese doesn’t recommend ceiling-height cupboards in tight, U-shaped kitchens or in very small kitchens, as they can have an imposing effect. Too many ceiling-height cupboards in a large kitchen can also overpower the space.

Installation

If you want to install ceiling-height kitchen cupboards in an existing kitchen, you’ll have to first remove some or all of the cornice, which may not be possible – check with a builder or kitchen installer first.

Installing ceiling-height cupboards can also be quite tricky from a manufacturing perspective. "They may require cabinets to be placed on top of each other to get the right height," says Matarese. "Flatpack versions can be an easier option." You can find falt-pack kitchen specialists here.

Thinking of fixing up your kitchen cabinetry? Find out about the options for your kitchen by talking to a kitchen design expert today.