Losing some of your upper kitchen cabinets can free up valuable wall space, make your kitchen feel more open and airy, and allow you to reconfigure your storage and design. Here is an in-depth guide on how to lose your upper cabinets and make your kitchen layout work for you.
Assessing Your Needs and Layout
Before removing any cabinets, first consider how losing some upper cabinets will impact your kitchen’s storage, functionality and layout.
Take Stock of Your Storage
- Take everything out of the upper cabinets and assess how much you actually use these spaces. Are they overcrowded or underutilized? Can those items fit elsewhere?
- Evaluate the contents of all your cabinets and drawers to see what can be removed or condensed.
- Consider using organizer inserts in drawers and shelves to maximize vertical storage.
- Check if you have adequate space in your pantry, freestanding cabinets or appliances to relocate any displaced items.
Evaluate Your Kitchen Layout
- Look at the entire workflow of your kitchen and how removing uppers could impact it.
- Make sure your most used supplies will still have a convenient home.
- Ensure important small appliances will still have space on your countertops or be close to an outlet.
- Check that eliminating upper cabinets won’t disrupt kitchen triangles between sinks, fridges and stoves.
Think About Your Style Needs
- Consider your personal tastes and cooking style. Do you need less storage but more open shelves? More closed cabinetry? Specialty pull-out shelves?
- Decide if you want to remove uppers from an entire wall, part of a wall, over specific counters or appliances.
- Weigh creating a uniform look throughout versus focusing on functional spaces.
Planning Your New Cabinet Configuration
Carefully plan where you can remove uppers and how to reconfigure your remaining cabinetry before taking anything out permanently.
Choose an Empty Wall or Section
- It may be easiest to first remove uppers from a wall or section with no lower cabinets and counter space underneath.
- This allows you to get a feel for the new open look without impacting storage and workflow.
- A blank wall is also a great candidate for adding new open shelving if needed.
Work Around Windows and Appliances
- Check that eliminating cabinets above windows or appliances won’t impede their access or functionality.
- Make sure window treatments will still be accessible.
- Ensure vents, microwaves and ranges will have proper clearance.
Maintain Key Workflow Areas
- Prioritize keeping upper cabinets in high traffic workflow zones like near the fridge, stove and sink.
- Make sure main thoroughfares remain open without low hanging cabinets overhead.
Repurpose Other Storage Areas
- Consider converting nearby spaces likeUtility room/Laundry rooms
- Pantry organization
- Repurposed drawers and cabinets
- Wall-mounted rails and shelves
- Freestanding storage furniture
Preparing Your Kitchen for Removal
Once you’ve planned your new layout, carefully prepare your kitchen before permanently removing any cabinetry.
Empty and Clean Cabinets
- Remove everything from the upper cabinets and drawers you plan to take out.
- Clean cabinets thoroughly before removing to limit dust and crumbs.
Protect Surfaces
- Cover countertops, floors, and appliances with drop cloths to protect from dust and debris.
- You may want to cover especially fragile surfaces like stone counters with cardboard or plywood.
Turn Off Electricity and Water
- Shut off power to any outlets that will be exposed or accessed behind cabinets.
- Turn off water supply valves to avoid accidental leaks if plumbing is disconnected.
Have Tools and Supplies Ready
- Gather necessary tools like pry bars, hammers, screwdrivers, reciprocating saw.
- Have a ladder and protective eyewear ready.
- Make sure you have extra lighting sources for visibility.
- Keep a vacuum, garbage bags and cleaning supplies on hand.
Removing Upper Cabinets Safely
Removing upper cabinets takes time and care. Follow these safety tips to avoid injury or unnecessary damage during the removal process.
Work With an Assistant
- Recruit a helper to provide an extra set of hands and improve safety.
- One person can remove cabinet contents and the other can stabilize the cabinets.
Take Cabinets Down Slowly
- Never yank multiple cabinets off the wall in one piece. Take them down one at a time.
- Carefully detach any connecting hardware between cabinets first.
- Slowly pry away molding, supports and trim pieces.
Check for Hidden Wires and Plumbing
- Watch for electrical lines or plumbing behind cabinets as you work.
- If anything is uncovered, turn off the main home supply line before proceeding.
Support Cabinets as You Remove Them
- Have your assistant help support and gently lower each cabinet as you detach it.
- Do not let cabinets crash to the counter or ground.
Finish the Wall Surface
- Inspect the exposed wall for any leftover nails, holes, or rough edges.
- Sand and smooth surfaces, then clean thoroughly before decorating or installing anything new.
Design Ideas for Losing Upper Cabinets
Removing top cabinets lets you reimagine your whole kitchen design. Consider these creative ideas for utilizing the new open space.
Add Open Shelving
- Floating shelves maintain storage while keeping the space light and airy.
- Stagger shelves at varying heights for display space.
- Try versatile rail systems with adjustable shelves and hooks.
Maximize Wall Space
- Hang frequently used tools like pans and utensils on the wall.
- Install a rack or pegs for towels, oils, and spices.
- Artwork and decorative wallpaper can brighten the space.
Upgrade Lighting
- Add task lighting under new shelves for visibility when cooking.
- Install accent lighting on the ceiling or walls to highlight the architecture.
- Swap outdated overhead fixtures for sleek new options.
Incorporate New Textures
- Try materials like wood boards, tile, brick, or shiplap on the exposed wall.
- Whitewash or paint the wall a bold color.
- Add an accent wallpaper or interesting texture treatment.
Build a Focal Point
- Create a focal point like a window valance, arbor, or drapery swag.
- Install a statement mirror or piece of art on the wall.
- Build unique open shelving flanking the cooktop.
Tips for Adjusting to Fewer Upper Cabinets
Losing upper cabinets requires adjusting storage and habits. Make the transition smooth with these handy tips.
Add Drawers and Pull-Outs
- Supplement lower cabinet storage with functional inserts like pull-out shelves and spice drawers.
- Install drawer organizers and dividers to optimize vertical space.
Use Lids and Containers
- Store loose items in clear plastic bins to prevent clutter on shelves.
- Keep perishables fresh with airtight canisters and food storage lids.
Label Storage Areas
- Prevent rummaging by labeling shelves, bins and baskets for easy item location.
- Create zones like “Breakfast Items” or “Baking Supplies” to stay organized.
Store Less in Your Kitchen
- Keep only essential daily-use items in your kitchen.
- Relocate specialty appliances and infrequent supplies to other storage areas.
Shop Strategically
- Buy shelf-stable ingredients in multi-serving packages.
- Seek out space-saving appliance designs.
- Look for furniture and organizers with built-in storage.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to remove upper cabinets?
The cost to remove upper cabinets ranges from $200 to $2000 depending on how many cabinets need removal, if any repairs or new cabinets are needed afterward, and if you do it yourself or hire a professional.
Can I remove just part of my upper cabinets?
Yes, you don’t have to remove all your upper cabinets. Many homeowners choose to eliminate uppers from just one focal wall or over specific areas like an eat-in dining nook.
What do I put in place of upper cabinets?
Popular replacements for upper cabinets include open shelving, wall-mounted rail systems, artwork, mirrors, floating ledges, and decorative wall treatments. Make sure to add supplemental lighting.
How do I change the cabinet layout in my kitchen?
Start by thoroughly sorting all your cabinet contents to see what can be condensed, donated or relocated elsewhere. Measure your existing cabinetry and available wall space, looking for new configurations that improve workflow. Create a plan for modifications before removing any permanent cabinetry.
Can I hang wall cabinets just under my ceiling?
Yes, you can install wall cabinets high up near your ceiling for a unique look. Use sturdy cleats or ledger boards attached securely to wall studs. Make sure cabinets don’t interfere with moldings or light fixtures.
What storage solutions can I use instead of upper cabinets?
Pantry cabinets, pull-out drawers, Lazy Susans, freestanding shelving units, mounted rails, artwork, mirrors, and floating shelves can provide alternate storage options. Multi-level open display shelving is popular for easy access.
How do I decorate a kitchen wall without uppers?
Focus on creating an intentional focal point like a statement mirror or art piece. Add a vibrant accent wall color or eye-catching wallpaper. Install decorative molding treatments, shelving and lighting. Also incorporate functional items like mounted rails, hooks, and floating shelves.
Can I remove just part of a wall of upper cabinets?
Yes, you can take out a single section of uppers or just over specific areas like a window or peninsula. Make sure remaining cabinets are still securely attached. Finish and decorate any uneven edges attractively.
What type of hardware should I use to hang shelves without upper cabinets?
Floating shelves without upper cabinet support require sturdy wall anchors installed into studs. For heavy items, use cleats and French cleats. Wall rails with standards, brackets and clips are very versatile and adjustable.
How much weight can floating shelves hold without being attached to cabinets?
Most floating shelves can hold 10-20 lbs per linear foot, but verify based on shelf depth and bracket type. Wider shelves over 12 inches deep often require additional centered brackets for stability past 20 lbs.
Conclusion
Removing some or all of your upper kitchen cabinets opens up valuable wall space, lightens up the room’s feel and provides design flexibility. With careful planning, integrated storage solutions and adjustments to keep necessities easily accessible, losing upper cabinets can help streamline your cooking and activities. Pay attention to preparing safely before removal and decorating intentionally after. With creativity and organization, you can love your kitchen even without your old uppers!
