Choosing the Best Tall Corner Kitchen Cabinets

Tall corner kitchen cabinets are ideal for compact kitchens because they maximize every inch of available space. But with so many options on the market, from materials to sizes and configurations, selecting the right tall corner unit can be daunting.

We'll explore the benefits they provide, measurements needed, storage layouts and designs, customization options, installation factors, and budgeting. Let's dive in!

Benefits of Tall Corner Kitchen Cabinets

Tall corner cabinets are specially designed to fit flush into any 90-degree corner. This lets you make use of the often underutilized vertical space from floor to ceiling. Benefits include:

• Maximizing unused space - By building up vertically, you gain storage without claiming more floorspace.
• Increased storage capacity - Tall cabinets offer substantially more room than standard base cabinets. For example, a 90-inch tall corner unit provides nearly triple the storage of a 36-inch high base cabinet.
• Easy access to items - Corner cabinets come with a variety of shelves and drawers to conveniently access contents. Features like pull-out shelves bring items right to you.
• Stylish design element - The height and shelving create an eye-catching focal point. Glass doors also add modern appeal.

Measurements to Consider

When installing any tall cabinet, accurate measurements are key for proper fit and function. Be sure to measure:

• Floor to ceiling height - This ensures sufficient room for the cabinet height. Leave at least 1-2 inches of space between the top of the cabinet and ceiling.
• Corner width - Measure the exact diagonal dimension from corner to corner. Even a few extra inches can impact fit.
• Desired shelf configuration - Consider interior organizers when measuring. Pull-out shelves need room to extend without hitting adjacent cabinets or walls.

Knowing exact corner dimensions helps calculate what size cabinet will fit the space appropriately. Common interior heights for corner units are 84, 90, or 96 inches. Depths range anywhere from 12 to 24 inches. Depth impacts storage capacity - deeper units accommodate more. Many companies also offer semi-custom sizes if needed to fine-tune the fit.

Storage Design and Layout

One benefit of corner cabinets is the variety of storage designs possible. Popular options include:

• Pull-out shelves - Sliding tiers that fully extend for complete access to contents. Great for heavy cookware or other bulkier items.
• Tiered design - Multiple shelves of differing heights and depths customize storage for different needs.
• Integrated appliances - Specialty organizers for knives, pots and pans, or glassware keep items visible and within reach.
• Lazy susans - Spinning trays make items on all shelves accessible with just a turn.
• Drawers - Excellent for storing cooking utensils, cutlery, linens, and other smaller contents.

Mixing various shelf types and drawers creates optimal use of space. Place most used items on easy to access shelves while reserve less frequently needed items for higher shelves or interior cabinet space.

Material and Design Options

Tall corner kitchen cabinets come in a wide selection materials, finishes, and hardware designs:

• Wood types - Oak, maple, hickory, and thermofoil laminate are all durable options.
• Glass doors - Frosted or smoked glass fronts provide obscured visibility of contents.
• Handles and hardware - Metal finishes like brushed nickel, oil-rubbed bronze, or matte black suit any decor.
• Integrated lighting - Built-in LED strip lighting illuminates the cabinet interior.
• Open shelving - A mix of open shelves and enclosed cabinets adds visual interest.

Choose materials and hardware that coordinate with existing kitchen finishes for a cohesive look. Glass doors add modern style while protecting shelf contents from grease splatter.

Customization and Organizational Tools

To optimize storage efficiency, many customizations and inserts are available:

• Adjustable shelving - Shelves that reconfigure to changing needs over time.
• Utensil organizers - Custom slots neatly separate cooking tools.
• Bottle racks - Hold variously sized bottles, condiments, and oils.
• Cabinet inserts - Pull-out trays fitted for pans, mixing bowls, or baking sheets.
• Drawer dividers - Customizable compartments for cutlery, gadgets, etc.
• Stemware holders - Safely store delicate glassware to prevent breaking.
• Spice organizers - Spinning racks or drawer inserts keep spices neatly accessible.
• Waste bin compartments - Hide trash cans in lower cabinet spaces.

Consider how you use your kitchen to determine which inserts would be most practical. Mix various organizers to keep anything from spice jars to colanders neatly tucked away.

Installation Considerations

While an ambitious DIY project, installing tall corner cabinets comes with challenges best managed by kitchen professionals:

• Electrical wiring - Add lighting, under-cabinet outlets, etc.
• Weight and floor support requirements - Tall cabinets can top 100+ pounds.
• A professional can best assess room layout, take accurate measurements, determine proper construction and finishes, and oversee placement for optimal performance and visual appeal.

With expertise in building codes, weight distribution, and physical demands, a kitchen designer tailors the cabinet specifications to your unique space. They also coordinate any needed electrical or plumbing modifications for a fully functional result. Most pros have connections with reliable installers to handle the physical cabinet fitting.

Prices for tall corner kitchen cabinets vary based on:

• Materials used - Hardwoods cost more than laminates.
• Included storage accessories - Pull outs, lighting, etc. increase price.
• Custom sizing - Semi-custom or full customization ups cost.
• Special features like integrated lighting or glass doors
• Delivery fees if not self pick-up
• Professional installation services

Expect to invest more for solid wood over plywood construction or premium finishes like stained oak or cherry. Storage accessories like pull-out shelves, integrated lighting, glass doors, and custom inserts also bump up costs. Most quality corner cabinets range $500-$1500. With professional installation, count on $2000+ for a high-end, fully loaded corner cabinet.

But when designed specifically for your kitchen's dimensions and needs, the investment pays dividends for years through ample storage and everyday convenience. Proper installation also ensures the cabinet durably withstands daily wear and tear. With some planning and budgeting, a custom tall corner unit makes the most of every inch while neatly organizing essentials right within reach.