Make the Most of Storage Space on Top of Kitchen Cabinets

The tops of kitchen cabinets often go overlooked and underutilized. This vertical space above eye level can actually provide valuable extra storage, display space, or visual interest when thoughtfully arranged. By getting creative, we can transform this awkward void into a functional and aesthetically pleasing accent in our kitchens.

Maximizing the storage potential on top of cabinets allows us to free up room in more convenient areas of our kitchens. We can utilize this out-of-the-way space to tuck away less frequently used items, seasonal kitchen accessories, and decorative objects. With some clever solutions, we can also take advantage of this space to organize and store commonly used pots, pans, and cooking tools for easy access.

Measure Available Space

Before putting anything on top of your kitchen cabinets, take accurate measurements of the existing space. This will allow you to select storage solutions and containers that make the most of the available area. Consider the depth from front to back as well as the height between cabinets and ceiling. Also note any existing lights, vents, or architectural details that already occupy a portion of this space.

Take into account how you currently use the tops of your cabinets. Are there any small appliances like a microwave or toaster that need open counter space? Make sure to plan around existing uses while also identifying new ways this vertical real estate can be better utilized.

Tips for Measuring

• Use a tape measure to get dimensions of total length, depth, and height.
• Account for any existing lights, vents, or decor.
• Consider nearby ceilings, walls, and cabinets when planning.
• Measure multiple spots to account for uneven surfaces.

Assess Storage Needs

Before shopping for containers or building storage solutions, think about which items make the most sense to keep on top of upper cabinets. Analyze your cooking habits and kitchen storage needs to identify priorities. Frequently used pans, pots, and cooking utensils are ideal candidates since they can be stored up high but still easily accessible when cooking.

Seasonal kitchen items like holiday dishware, small appliances, and festive linens can reside on top of cabinets when not in regular rotation. Infrequently used serving platters, glassware, and gadgets are also smart choices. Consider storing these types of items you only use once in a while in hard to reach spots.

Questions to Consider

• What kitchen tools or appliances do I use most often?
• Which items can be safely stored out of reach?
• What do I only use occasionally or seasonally?
• How can I group items to maximize space?

Storage Ideas and Solutions

Once you've measured and brainstormed, it's time to come up with storage solutions and ideas tailored to your space and needs. Bins, baskets, shelves, and racks can all help harness the potential of your unused cabinet tops.

Baskets and Bins

Baskets and bins are a go-to solution for corralling all sorts of kitchen items. Square or rectangular bins maximize space efficiently. Round rattan baskets bring visual interest while containing small objects. Sturdy plastic bins keep items organized and protected.

Labels, either handwritten or printed, allow for an organized system so you know what's stored where. Bins and baskets can be arranged by category, like baking supplies or drinkware, or by frequency of use. Stack them vertically to take advantage of all the available height above cabinets.

Shelving

Open shelving and cabinet tops are perfect partners. Floating shelves mounted on the wall above kitchen cabinets can display cookbooks, plants, or decorative objects. Enclosed cabinetry up top can hide away less visually appealing items.

Stackable shelves let you double up on storage space. Modular wire shelves have adjustable heights to accommodate different items. For a custom look, build fixed shelving secured firmly to the wall and sized to your space.

Rails and Racks

Take advantage of all that vertical space by installing racks and rails specifically sized for common kitchen tools. Hang a towel bar or paper towel holder to keep these items handy but out of the way. Store spices on mounted racks so you can easily see what's available.

Pot racks and pan racks allow you to neatly arrange cooking essentials above the prep space where they'll be used. Just be sure to securely anchor any wall-mounted racks into studs to support the weight.

Optimize Space Usage

When organizing items on top of kitchen cabinets, aim to use every inch of available space. This doesn't necessarily mean cramming as much as possible up there. Thoughtful organization creates a balance between function and aesthetics.

Use vertical space to your advantage. For example, stacking matching lidded bins creates a stair step effect. Containers and baskets can also be set on risers to add a second layer.

Installing floor-to-ceiling shelving on the wall expands storage. Stack containers evenly and avoid wasted gaps. Frequently used pots and pans should go in the front row for easy access.

Maximizing Space Tips

• Use staggered risers and double stack bins.
• Place lightweight items on high shelves.
• Store by category or frequency of use.
• Utilize vertical racks, holders, and rods.

Enhance Visual Appeal

The way your kitchen cabinets look matters just as much as their storage capabilities. A jumbled mess up top can make your whole kitchen look disorganized. With some styling tricks, you can make this space look like an intentional design choice.

Baskets, bins, and storage boxes allow you to corral items and prevent a cluttered look. Woven baskets offer texture and warmth. Clear plastic bins contain items while keeping them partially visible.

Incorporate decor items like plants, lights, or wall art. You can also add color with painted cabinets or shelving. Proper lighting illuminates the space to highlight your design.

Display Tips

• Vary container shapes, sizes, and materials.
• Add greenery, succulents, or trailing plants.
• Incorporate your decor style with wall art.
• Use lighting to draw attention to displays.

Get Creative with DIY

If you're handy and on a budget, consider DIY solutions for maximizing and enhancing your kitchen cabinet tops. Turn an old ladder into shelving or use salvaged wood to craft open boxes. You can build and size custom shelves to perfectly fit the space.

Get creative repurposing flea market finds or items you already have at home. An old tool box or crate instantly adds rustic charm. Upcycling is also eco-friendly and can save you money.

Installing door racks provides storage right on cabinet fronts. Racks mounted inside cabinet doors conveniently hold kitchen tools. Spice racks on the inside of upper doors keep these essentials organized.

Thrifty Storage Ideas

• Repurpose crates, baskets, or boxes.
• Display collections like cookbooks or teapots.
• Use salvaged wood for shelves and ladder bookshelves.
• Install door racks and inside cabinet storage.

Storage and Organization Tips

No matter what storage solutions you implement, organization is key to keeping your new cabinet top space functional and clutter-free. Apply general organizing principles like labeling containers, purging unused items, and grouping like objects together.

Store frequently accessed items in the most convenient spots within reach. Infrequently used objects can go in the back rows. For cookware, place pans in order of use frequency. Also take into account the weight and fragility of objects when deciding on placement.

Staying Organized

• Label everything for easy identification.
• Store dishware by function or holiday.
• Group like items to maximize space.
• Rotate seasonal decor as needed.

Safety Considerations

When installing storage and display solutions atop your kitchen cabinets, safety should also be top of mind. Proper mounting and anchoring ensures shelves and racks don't come crashing down under weight or pressure.

Pay attention to manufacturer weight limits and don't overload shelves. Heavier pans, appliances, and equipment belong on lower cabinets or countertops. Securely screw brackets into wall studs and not just drywall.

In earthquake zones, include safety straps and anti-tip hardware. Never climb or stand on cabinets to reach items stored up high. For households with kids, use safety brackets on furniture and keep heavy objects secured.

Safety Tips

• Check load capacity before loading shelves.
• Use appropriate anchors for wall type.
• Add safety straps in seismic areas.
• Keep heavy objects below shoulder height.

Work With Professionals

Some kitchen cabinet projects call for an expert assist. Hiring an experienced installer ensures storage solutions and shelving are properly measured and mounted. They have the right tools and hardware for a safe and secure result.

For a kitchen remodel or redesign, consult a kitchen designer. They can incorporate customized cabinetry sized to maximize your unique space. With custom cabinets, shelves and racks can be built right in for an integrated look.

Professional organizers specialize in designing smart spaces that are also visually appealing. Their expert tips lead to functional and clutter-free storage solutions tailored to your needs and preferences.

Pro Assistance

• Kitchen designers for custom cabinetry.
• Organization experts for space planning.
• Experienced installers for proper mounting.
• Carpenters for built-ins and custom work.

Make the Most of Your Space

The space on top of your kitchen cabinets has so much potential to improve your culinary workflow and storage capacity. With some clever solutions and a bit of elbow grease, you can transform this previously ignored real estate into a functional and decorative focal point.

Don't let awkward areas like the tops or sides of cabinets go to waste. A thoughtful organization plan and strategic storage arrangements can help streamline even the smallest kitchen. When it comes to your cabinetry, look at every inch as an opportunity to maximize utility and visual impact.

Key Takeaways

• Measure carefully to customize storage to your space.
• Utilize vertical space with stacking and doubling up.
• Coordinate form and function for aesthetic appeal.
• Label and group items efficiently and neatly.
• Mount and anchor safely and seek expert help if needed.

The often overlooked tops of kitchen cabinets present the perfect blank canvas for extra storage solutions or decorative displays. With some creativity and organization, this space can be transformed into an accent that makes your culinary workflow more streamlined while adding visual interest. Applying these storage ideas and solutions will help you maximize every inch of available space. Before you know it, you'll gain valuable storage capacity and a focal point that makes you smile each time you're cooking and prepping meals in your newly optimized kitchen.