Should I put my kitchen cabinets to the ceiling?

Author: Dr. Marcos Streich  |  Last update: Sunday, July 27, 2025

Dust and Pest Prevention Prevention of Dust Accumulation: By extending cabinets all the way to the ceiling, there are fewer open spaces where dust can settle. This means less cleaning and a tidier kitchen overall.

Should your kitchen cabinets go to the ceiling?

It depends on personal preference. Cabinets that go to the ceiling will of course detract dust and are easier to clean. They also provide the illusion of a larger kitchen space. However, cabinets that do not go to the ceiling are less costly and potentially easier to reach.

Do cabinets to the ceiling make a room look bigger?

Some people are completely focused on having as much storage as possible in the kitchen and selecting 42" upper cabinets will definitely give you more space. It also helps make the ceiling appear larger by having the cabinets touch the ceiling. But, be warned, the extra space does come with a few caveats.

Why is there a gap between kitchen cabinets and ceiling?

Most kitchen cabinets are not designed to touch the ceiling. The space between the cabinet and the ceiling is called the ``cabinet gap.'' This gap is important because it allows air to circulate and prevents moisture from building up in the cabinet.

What to do when kitchen cabinets don't go to the ceiling?

Consider raising the top cabinets. Have the cabinets built down, so to speak, from the ceiling. Attach them at the ceiling (without crown molding) instead of starting at standard height which leaves the gap above. Then add a row or two of open shelving underneath to bring them down to the normal cabinet level, iykwim.

Cabinets to the Ceiling: Pros, Cons & Cost-Saving Alternatives

What do you put between cabinets and ceilings?

In situations where the cabinets don't quite meet the ceiling, many builders will cover that space with a soffit. Others will leave it open, with empty space above the cabinets. Whether you'd prefer a soffit or an open space is a totally personal choice!

How high is too high for kitchen cabinets?

Wall cabinets should be 18 inches from the floor to avoid obstructing counter space and range hood access. Cabinets higher than 18 inches above the countertop may not leave enough space underneath them for a cooktop and will require a taller cabinet to be installed in its place.

Should laundry room cabinets go to the ceiling?

Installing DIY laundry cabinets that reach the ceiling is the best way to maximize your storage space. However, the cabinets don't need to be this tall if it doesn't suit your needs.

What is the trim between kitchen cabinets and ceiling?

Crown molding is a popular choice as it offers a timeless and elegant look, seamlessly bridging the gap between cabinets and ceiling. Styles of crown molding include cove molding, dentil molding, or even a simple scribe molding which can work well depending on the design theme you're aiming for.

Can you put 42 inch cabinets on an 8 foot ceiling?

Eight Feet

If you have an 8-foot ceiling, you can use 39” or 42” upper cabinets and reach the ceiling (since wall cabinets are mounted 54” up from the floor). Which size you use will depend on the height of the crown molding that you use at the top of the cabinet.

What color cabinets make room look bigger?

Quick Tips To Make A Small Kitchen Look Bigger

Use light colors: Opt for whites, pastels, and light shades to create an open and airy feel. Choose a low-contrast color pallet to keep the space bright.

Should I leave space above kitchen cabinets?

This is a classic move, and for good reason. The space above your cabinets is just right for items you only reach for once in a blue moon like cake stands, big serving boards, and decorative pieces. They're meant to be shown off, so pop them up there when not in use and you'll get to look at them all year-round.

Should kitchen cabinet crown molding touch the ceiling?

1) Never leave crown moldings closer than 9 inches from a ceiling. Once you get within a foot of the ceiling you should have the cabinetry and molding meet the ceiling. Don't create spaces that look odd and that can't be cleaned. Molding too close to ceiling without reaching it.

Is crown molding on kitchen cabinets outdated?

'While we don't think the crown molding will ever go out of style, we do think that modern kitchens tend to call for crownless caps,' they tell me. 'It's our suggestion to tailor your crown to your kitchen.

How high should cupboards be on ceiling?

Come in several standard sizes to suit ceiling heights. 2133mm (84”), 2286 (90”) and 2438mm (96”). Pantry cabinets are also a type of tall cabinet and are often built to fit a total height of 1990mm to 2400mm.

What is the space above kitchen cabinets called?

Kitchen soffits are usually installed above your cabinets, closing the gaps between the cabinets and ceiling. While kitchen soffits were very popular in older homes, the style has fallen out of favor for many homeowners and interior designers.

Are cabinets to the ceiling worth it?

It eliminates the awkward gap between the top of the cabinets and the ceiling, which is often a dust collector and can be challenging to clean. The seamless flow of cabinetry from floor to ceiling creates a visually pleasing, uncluttered appearance.

What fills the space between kitchen cabinets and ceiling?

How Do You Fill The Gap Between The Cabinets And The Ceiling?
  • Include A Plant. ...
  • Collections That Go Together. ...
  • Gallery Of Vintage Items. ...
  • Extend wall over the Cabinets. ...
  • Add Decorative Lighting. ...
  • Display Cookbooks or Kitchen-Themed Décor. ...
  • Install Crown Molding.

How far should cabinets be from the ceiling?

“Leave a foot or more between the top of the cabinet and the ceiling. This looks intentional and gives your kitchen the polished, elevated look you're seeking.” “Your designer will work with the lines of your kitchen to make the cabinet line look natural,” she adds.

Why do kitchen cabinets not go to the ceiling?

It's important for homeowners to easily reach items in their kitchen cabinets, regardless of their height. The average folk's height plays a role in the standard height of kitchen cabinets. If the cabinets were to touch the ceiling, most people would need a step stool or ladder to access top-shelf items.

How high above the washer and dryer should cabinets be?

Height: At least 18 inches above countertops

That said, you can customize laundry room cabinet sizes to your specific needs and preferences.

Is laundry room better upstairs or downstairs?

Having a designated second-floor laundry room is an excellent way to save time and make laundering easier. One of the pros of having a second-floor laundry is not having to lug baskets of clothes up and down stairs every time they need to be laundered.

Are 42 inch cabinets too tall?

42” upper cabinets are a very common selection for 9' ceilings. You will have 12” of space above 42” cabinets; if you want them to meet the ceiling you will have to install 12” of crown molding.

How many inches should cabinets be from a countertop?

The typical measurement for the spacing between cabinets and countertops is 18 inches. It's generally advisable to maintain a minimum clearance of 15 inches and a maximum of 20 inches.

Is there a code for kitchen cabinet height?

The standard height for upper cabinets from the counter is 18 inches, or 1 foot and 6 inches. They shouldn't be less than 15 inches away or more than 20 inches away. This also means the height to where the bottom of your upper cabinets starts.

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