Cabinets are one of the most important aspects of any kitchen. They offer ample storage, keep things organized, and add visual appeal to your space. However, oftentimes, when we are renovating or upgrading our kitchen, we find that we need additional space to accommodate all our items. If you’re faced with limited storage in your kitchen, don’t worry!
There are creative solutions like adding cabinets above existing cabinets. In this post, we’ll discuss how to add cabinets above existing cabinets without disrupting your kitchen’s aesthetic.
Can You Add Cabinets Above Existing Cabinets?
Many homeowners face the challenge of limited cabinet space in their kitchens. Fortunately, adding extra cabinets may not require an entire kitchen renovation. You can easily expand your storage options by installing cabinets above your existing ones.
This can be a cost-effective solution that not only provides additional space but also enhances the aesthetic appeal of your kitchen. With various cabinet styles, sizes, and colors available, you can customize your new additions to match your current cabinets and complement your home décor. So, before tearing down walls, consider adding cabinets above your existing ones for a simpler solution to your kitchen storage needs.
Why Should You Add Cabinets Above Existing Cabinets?
If you struggle with storage space in your kitchen, adding cabinets above your existing cabinets may be the solution you’ve been searching for. Not only will it give you more room to store your pots, pans, and other kitchen essentials, but it can also enhance the aesthetic of your kitchen.
These cabinets can provide a great opportunity to display your favorite dishes or decor, making your kitchen feel more personalized and welcoming.
Adding cabinets above existing cabinets is not only practical, but it can also add value to your home. So why not take advantage of the space above your cabinets and give your kitchen the upgrade it deserves?
Creative Solutions: How to Add Cabinets Above Existing Cabinets
1. Assess the Space
Before you start any renovations, it is essential to look at the available space. Measure the height of your existing cabinets and calculate how much space you have to work with. Ensure your new cabinets won’t be too big and overwhelm the space.
Also, consider how the cabinets will look in proportion to the rest of the room. Once you have these details, take them to a professional cabinet maker, or if you’re a DIY enthusiast, use them to create your cabinets.
2. Structural Support
Installing new cabinets above existing cabinets requires proper structural support. It is important to note that the cabinets will be heavy, especially when loaded with items, so they must be securely anchored. Ensure your existing cabinets are strong enough to support the weight of the new cabinets. If you’re unsure, consult with a professional contractor or engineer to provide the required support.
3. Matching Style
An important aspect to consider when adding new cabinets is the design and finish. The new cabinets should match the style and color of the existing cabinets. You don’t want the cabinets to look like an afterthought. Most cabinet makers will offer various finishes that complement your existing designs. At the very least, try to match the paint color and style of the cabinets.
4. Hardware and Installation
The hardware and installation of your new cabinets should match the existing hardware. Not doing this makes it obvious they are newer than the rest, possibly sticking out like a sore thumb.
The veneer should also match, and this is something that can be achieved through careful sanding and paintwork. Also, the installation process should be seamless and not damage the existing cabinets. Use a professional installation service, or if you’re confident in your DIY skills, take your time to ensure that the cabinets are properly installed.
5. Functionality
Cabinets offer practical storage, so don’t lose sight of this fact. Consider installing lighting inside the cabinets, which offers a massive boost to aesthetics and functionality. Alternatively, add dividers to keep items from mixing or install sliding trays so that items are easily accessible. Also, remember to account for the increased height and don’t neglect practicality for design.
6. Matching Countertops
Although your countertops will likely not be affected by the new cabinets, it is still important to make sure they match. If you’re adding or changing upper cabinets, ensure that the countertop material matches seamlessly. Ideally, choose a similar material and color to match your existing countertops. If the counters are white while your new cabinets are natural wood, this can create an awkward contrast.
7. Careful Planning
Adding cabinets above existing cabinets can be a daunting task, but with careful planning, it is achievable. Take your time to plan out all of the details and consider every aspect before starting the project. Use online visualizers or consult with a professional designer to help you visualize the end result. With proper planning, you can achieve a seamless and cohesive look that adds both style and functionality to your space.
Try these tips when adding cabinets above existing cabinets and create a beautiful and functional storage solution for your home. Remember to take plenty of measurements, consult with professionals if necessary, match the style and functionality of your existing cabinets, and carefully plan out every detail. With the right approach, you can transform your space and add valuable storage without sacrificing style.
5 Considerations Things When You Need to Add Cabinets Above Existing Cabinets
1. Measure the Space
When adding cabinets above existing cabinets, it is important to measure the space accurately. This will help you determine the size and number of cabinets that can fit in the space. You should also measure any existing cabinets that may be in the way, as they may need to be removed or modified for your new cabinets to fit properly.
2. Choose a Material
When selecting a material for your new cabinets, consider both aesthetic and practical factors. Wood is an attractive option but may require more maintenance than other materials, such as metal or laminate. Additionally, you should consider how much weight your new cabinets will need to support when deciding on a material.
3. Select Cabinet Style
The style of your new cabinets should complement the existing ones and match the overall decor of your kitchen or bathroom. If you are trying to save money, consider using stock cabinetry instead of custom-made options, as they are usually less expensive and easier to install.
4. Consider Lighting Options
Lighting your new cabinets can make them more functional and visually appealing. Under-cabinet lighting is a great option for illuminating countertops while providing additional lighting for food preparation or makeup application tasks.
5. Install Properly
Finally, it is important to ensure that your new cabinets are properly installed to be secure and stable over time. Make sure that all screws are tight and that all joints are properly sealed with caulk or wood glue before hanging the cabinet doors and drawers onto the frame.
Benefits of Add Cabinets Above Existing Cabinets
Adding cabinets above existing ones can benefit your kitchen or storage area. One significant advantage is that they provide additional storage space for your items. This can be especially helpful if you have limited storage space or tend to accumulate a lot of items over time. Additionally, by adding cabinets above your existing ones, you can create a more streamlined and uniform look to your kitchen.
This can help to give your space a more cohesive and organized feel overall. Moreover, you can also opt to use glass-front cabinets to display your favorite dishware or decorative items.
This can add an extra layer of elegance and refinement to your kitchen and make it feel more personalized. Adding cabinets above your existing ones can be a cost-effective and efficient way to update and upgrade your kitchen space.
Some Common Mistakes People Make When Trying to Add Cabinets Above Existing Cabinets
Adding cabinets above existing cabinets can be a great way to maximize storage space in your kitchen, but it’s important to proceed cautiously. One of the most common mistakes people make is underestimating the weight of the new cabinets. If the existing cabinets aren’t sturdy enough to support the additional weight, they could collapse, causing serious damage and potential injury.
Another mistake is failing to properly align the new cabinets with the existing ones, which can make the entire set-up look unprofessional. Finally, some people overlook the importance of good lighting, making it difficult to see what’s inside the new cabinets.
To avoid these mistakes, it’s a good idea to consult with a professional before you begin your project. With the right planning and execution, you can add extra storage space to your kitchen without compromising safety or style.
Conclusion
Adding cabinets above existing cabinets is a great way to increase storage space without totally disrupting the look or flow of your kitchen. Ensure you assess the space, provide adequate structural support, match your style, use proper hardware and installation techniques, and ensure the cabinets remain practical.
By following these tips, you can add unique storage space while keeping the kitchen aesthetics in mind for a beautifully functional kitchen. Thanks for reading our post about how to add cabinets above existing cabinets.
