Reach New Heights in Your Kitchen with Double Stack Wall Cabinets
If your kitchen storage space never seems to be enough no matter how organized you are, it may be time to literally reach new heights. The increasingly popular design trend of double stack kitchen cabinets can give your kitchen a built-in, polished look while maximizing every inch of unused vertical real estate. We'll explore everything you need to know, from what double stacking entails to installation considerations, ideal ceiling height, and beyond. Let's boost your kitchen's form and function with some clever double stacking!
Double stack cabinets refer to installing an additional layer of wall cabinets above your existing row. This double decker configuration makes use of the often wasted space between the tops of your cabinets and the ceiling. With creative use of vertical height, you can gain up to 100% more enclosed kitchen storage capacity.
What Are Double Stack Kitchen Cabinets?
Double stacked kitchen cabinets are also known as two-tier cabinets or double decker cabinets. The concept involves adding a second row of wall cabinets on mounted rails above your current set of base cabinets or wall units. This fills in the empty space between the ceiling and tops of your existing cabinets for a more unified, built-in aesthetic.
With standard 8-10 foot ceilings, the gap above kitchen cabinets tends to get dusty and filled with seldom-used items like extra dishes, decorations, or small appliances. Double stacking provides beautifully integrated storage space to organize these items behind closed cabinet doors. If your kitchen regularly feels small, cluttered, or short on storage, double stack cabinets could be the storage solution and aesthetic upgrade you need.
Benefits of Double Stacked Kitchen Cabinets
- Maximizes unused vertical storage space above existing cabinets
- Can increase your overall kitchen storage capacity by up to 100%
- Provides concealed storage for dishes, glasses, gadgets
- Displays decorative items neatly behind glass cabinet doors
- Creates a premium built-in look that appears custom designed
- Makes small, cramped kitchens more spacious and functional
- Helps organize countertop clutter by freeing up space
With their polished, integrated appearance and abundance of extra storage capacity, double stacked cabinets can be a game changer for small kitchens. The enclosed storage also prevents dust buildup from accumulating on your overflow goods.
| Energy Efficiency | Double stacking cabinets can contribute to energy efficiency by reducing the number of appliances needed, regulating kitchen temperature. |
Considerations Before Installing Double Stack Kitchen Cabinets
While double stack cabinets offer impressive storage gains, they aren't necessarily right for all kitchens. Here are some key considerations before committing to this trend:
- More expensive than standard wall cabinets due to labor and materials
- The upper tier of cabinets can be difficult to access comfortably
- Require a bit more maintenance to keep top shelving dust-free
- Need high ceilings to avoid a closed-in, cramped appearance
Thoroughly measure your kitchen and assess your budget, organizational needs and style preferences before embarking on a double stacking installation. But don't worry - a few smart solutions can help mitigate common double cabinet concerns.
Creative Solutions for Double Stacked Kitchen Cabinets
| Lighting | Adding LED lights or under-cabinet lighting makes double stacked cabinets easier to see into and access items. Helpful in kitchens with minimal natural light. |
| Customization | Work with cabinet designer to create double stacked cabinets suited to your storage needs and design taste. Choose from variety of materials, finishes and door styles. |
For customization options for double stacked cabinets, some ideas are:
- Glass doors - adds visibility and light
- Open shelving - better accessibility without doors
- Undershelf lighting - improve visibility in dark corners
- Brass or antique brass hardware - for an elegant style
- Unique wood species like hickory or alder - warm, natural look
A bit of clever lighting, customization and accessibility considerations can go a long way in making your double stacked kitchen cabinets as functional as they are visually stunning.
| Accessibility | Make top cabinets accessible by installing pull-out shelves or drawers so you can retrieve items without ladder. |
| Maintenance | Incorporate regular cleaning into kitchen routine to keep double stacked cabinets dust-free and in good condition since they're harder to reach. |
What is the Ideal Ceiling Height for Double Stacked Cabinets?
To install double stack cabinets without compromising your kitchen's spaciousness, you need ample vertical room. The standard US ceiling height is 8 feet - much too low for a second row of cabinets. Instead, experts recommend at least 18-feet for double stacking. This prevents a cramped, enclosed appearance and lets both cabinet layers breath comfortably.
For most homes, reaching 18-foot ceilings requires vaulted or cathedral styles rather than flat. But for small kitchens with soaring vaulted ceilings, double stacked cabinets can maximize every inch while maintaining an airy, open aesthetic. If your kitchen remodel budget allows, double stacks could be the perfect fit.
How Are Double Stack Wall Cabinets Installed?
While experienced DIYers can self-install double stack cabinets with proper research, we recommend hiring a professional kitchen remodeling contractor. The installation process is complex, requiring extremely precise rail and cabinet measurements, drilling, alignment and finishing.
The basic process includes:
- Measuring the exact height between your existing wall cabinets and ceiling
- Mounting heavy-duty support rails securely into wall studs
- Resting new upper cabinets atop base wall units
- Drilling cabinet attachment holes into rails
- Securing upper cabinets, aligning doors/drawers
- Testing weight capacity and stability before loading
Rushing the installation risks slipping, misalignment, wobbling doors/shelves or complete collapse under heavier loads. Hire an experienced contractor for peace of mind and safety with your investment.
As you can see, double stacked kitchen cabinets offer an ingenious storage solution and contemporary built-in style perfect for cramped, cluttered kitchens. With some smart planning around height, lighting and accessibility, double stacking can transform your kitchen's form and function.
Just be sure to measure carefully, assess your budget, and understand style and ceiling considerations before installing. Double stacks bring cabinets to daring new heights - ensuring your kitchen storage capacity can reach great heights too.