Last updated on January 17, 2024

Are you tired of running out of storage space in your shorter kitchen cabinets? Or are you simply in the mood to remodel your kitchen with a more trendy cabinet style or different cabinet height? Even with 8-foot ceilings, you can install gorgeous, tall upper cabinets to create the impression of high ceilings and more space.

Plus, this modern type of cabinetry will give you more storage space than ever (just remember to get the step stool out). Keep reading to learn how to install new upper cabinets in a kitchen with an 8 ft ceiling.

Is It Time to Update Your Kitchen?

Although updating your kitchen is a considerable investment, sometimes it’s a situation you can’t avoid. There are many reasons homeowners choose to pursue a kitchen renovation project. It might be the right time to consider renovating your kitchen if you notice common issues, including:

  • Broken cabinets
  • Outdated appliances
  • Cracked counter or tiling
  • Old light fixtures
  • Personal style changes
  • Storage constraints
  • Non-functional layout

The kitchen is often a sacred space for families and home chefs alike, so it’s important to make it both a beautiful and functional space. Installing new cabinets and updating other aspects of your kitchen can make your room feel bigger and provide additional storage space so your family can go about their daily routines more efficiently than ever.

8 foot ceiling kitchen remodel finished renovation tall gray cabinets and open storage

Trending Now: Tall Cabinets

Cabinetry has come a long way over the years, with a certain cabinet style often in one year and out the next. In the past, kitchen designers installed shorter cabinets that didn’t reach the kitchen ceiling on a regular basis in most homes, leaving an open space like a shelf that could typically only be utilized for decorative purposes.

Nowadays, storage space is a huge must-have for busy homeowners, and shorter cabinets simply don’t offer as much storage space as more modern style options. Different sizes of cabinetry are available to accommodate the storage needs of any family regardless of kitchen ceiling height. The standard cabinetry cabinet height is 36 inches, but now you can find tall cabinets that come in heights anywhere from 42 to 90 inches.

Whether you have a small kitchen or an already vaulted ceiling, tall, ceiling height cabinets (or shorter cabinets with some crown molding) can provide considerable benefits, both practically and aesthetically. Remember, though: the more wall you want to cover with cabinets, the more costly your renovation will wind up.

Don’t worry, though; things like crown molding can help solve this issue, but we’ll get to that later. First, let’s look at how to plan your installation of new cabinets in a kitchen with 8 ft ceilings.

Planning an 8 Foot Ceiling Kitchen Remodel

Has the idea of ceiling height cabinets started to pique your interest? Take time to plan your kitchen remodeling project, including this trendy type of cabinetry, to ensure everything is exactly as you’ve dreamed in the end.

Design and Layout

As with any other home renovation project, you need to decide on an overall design and layout before the construction can actually start. Professional kitchen designers can create an appealing plan that incorporates everything you want, from cabinets to the countertop.

Speak with your contractor to decide on the placement of things like kitchen islands or breakfast bars, or even discuss the possible options for open floor plans and other popular kitchen layouts.

8 foot ceiling kitchen remodel black and stainless steel kitchen appliances oven

New Appliances

During your kitchen renovations, you might realize it’s time to update each appliance as well. Since you want your new kitchen cabinets installed correctly, you need to consider the placement of cabinetry in conjunction with kitchen appliances such as:

  • Stovetop
  • Convection oven
  • Dishwasher
  • Refrigerator
  • Microwave
  • Air fryer
  • Coffee maker
  • Wine or beer refrigerator

Tile and Countertop Options

While kitchen cabinets might be the primary concern during your project, this is also a great time to install a new countertop, backsplash, or tile floor in your kitchen space. You can transform the room with a granite counter or give your sink a facelift with fresh tiling on the walls.

Home Decor

Of course, it’s impossible to complete a kitchen remodel without considering how you’re going to decorate the space when everything is said and done. You can utilize kitchen decor to really capture your style or create a modern atmosphere.

Examples of decorative items you can purchase to top off your new kitchen design include:

  • Dishtowels
  • Plates, cups, kitchen cutlery, etc.
  • Posters, art prints, and other wall decor
  • Soaps
  • Decorative pillows
  • Rugs
  • Table mats and place settings

Upper Cabinets

Tall cabinets that look like they go all the way to the ceiling will give you enough room for storage needs while simultaneously making your kitchen space seem larger. The vertical lines that come with the stacked look of ceiling height cabinets help create an optical illusion of more open space, even if it’s just a few inches. You can stick with the standard shaker panel-type cabinet doors or opt for glass fronts instead for a more decorative look.

If you’re a bit concerned about gaining access to the top shelf after installing these tall upper cabinets, there’s no need for concern. Simply use a step stool to gain access to the higher space in your new stacked cabinets.

You Can’t Forget About Crown Molding

Depending on your new cabinet height, the cabinets may not go all the way to the ceiling. In this case, you’ll need to install a bit of crown molding to block off the few inches that remain between the upper cabinets and ceiling.

Crown molding typically comes in the same color and style as the cabinets in order to blend into the upper cabinets more easily. Crown molding helps create the same look as the more pricey, luxury cabinets that go all the way to the ceiling.

8 foot ceiling kitchen remodel DIY light fixture installation

DIY Home Improvements vs. Help From the Pros

Although replacing wall cabinets can be an easy enough job for the experienced family handyman, it can also be an arduous task for someone without the proper tools and knowledge.

Assess your own skillset to determine if you can install your own ceiling height cabinets, or ask a team of professional kitchen designers for advice before starting your kitchen remodeling project.

Update Your Wall Cabinets (and Whole Kitchen) With HomeWorx

Whether you just want advice on preliminary design ideas or you’re ready to dive into a fully fleshed-out kitchen renovation, HomeWorx is the one to call. Our team of professional kitchen designers can give you the extra storage space you need with the feel of high ceilings, even if your small kitchen stays the same size.

Contact us today to start your consultation to install ceiling height cabinets in your 8 ft ceiling kitchen.