Small kitchens can pose a real challenge when it comes to storage and organization. With limited floor space, it can be difficult to fit in all the cabinets and appliances needed for functionality. One innovative solution is choosing kitchen cabinets that sit directly on top of the countertops. This allows you to maximize every inch of space vertically. Read on to learn all about the different types of sit-on-top cabinets, their unique benefits, and tips for incorporating them into your own kitchen design.
Different Types of Sit-On-Top Cabinetry
Kitchen cabinets that mount to the countertop come in several styles to suit different storage needs and aesthetic tastes. Here are some of the most popular options:
Full Height Cabinets
As the name implies, these cabinets extend all the way from the countertop up to the ceiling. They make use of all the available vertical space for maximum storage capacity. Full height models typically have multiple shelves inside that can be adjusted to accommodate large or oddly-shaped items.
The only potential downside is that full height cabinets can make a kitchen feel overly closed in if you don’t have enough open wall space to balance them out. But for small, enclosed kitchens they offer a space-saving solution.
Partial Height Cabinets
For a more open and airy look, partial height cabinets are a great choice. Ranging anywhere from 15″ to 30″ tall, they sit above the countertop but stop well below the ceiling. You still get useful storage space right where you need it without the looming effect of full-sized cabinets.
Partial height models work especially well in conjunction with wall cabinets. You can use them to bridge visual gaps and fill awkward spaces between the counter and wall cabinets.
Bridge Cabinets
As their name suggests, bridge cabinets physically bridge the space between two fixed surfaces like walls, refrigerators or appliances. Most commonly they are used to span the area over a kitchen sink, range or cooktop.
Because you can’t typically have a full-size cabinet in these spots, a bridge cabinet is a clever way to add storage precisely where you need it. And the interior space can often be customized with pull outs, racks and other functional elements.
The Advantages of Choosing Sit-On-Top Cabinetry
Installing cabinets on top of existing counters and surfaces offers several nice perks. Here are some of the most noteworthy:
Space Savings
This style of cabinetry lets you make the most of every cubic inch in a compact kitchen. Rather than just going up to the wall cabinets, you can fully utilize all the volume up to the ceiling. Even an extra 1-2 feet of height can make a surprising difference in capacity.
Hidden Clutter
For tidy minimalists, the ability to conceal messy countertops is another advantage. Keeping small appliances, wipe-down bottles and other visual clutter behind cabinet doors maintains a clean, uncluttered look.
Customization
With sit-on-top cabinets, you aren’t limited to one uniform cabinet height. You can combine full-height pantry units with shorter specialty models for knives, cutting boards or appliances. This custom look makes the most of available space.
Easy Cleaning
Having cabinets directly over the countertops makes cleaning up crumbs and spills a breeze. You can quickly sweep debris right off the edge into the trash without needing to move small appliances or baking supplies.
Modern Styling
The streamlined, almost floating aesthetic of sit-on-top cabinets aligns with contemporary kitchen trends. The look is especially sleek when combined with hidden hinges and handles.
Design Factors to Keep in Mind
While enticing, installing sit-on-top cabinets does require some forethought to do it right. Here are some important design considerations:
Leave Enough Workspace
Make sure your countertop workspace doesn’t become too cramped. Leave at least 15-18 inches of open counter frontage for preparing food, staging appliances and handling tasks like rolling out dough.
Allow Proper Ventilation
Full-height pantry units along a wall may look stunning, but be sure to allow for proper airflow around appliances. Leave gaps between cabinets or consider units with ventilation grates.
Complement Other Cabinetry
Your sit-on-top cabinets should coordinate with the style and finish of existing kitchen cabinetry for a cohesive look. Mixing and matching finishes haphazardly tends to look disjointed.
Consider the Layout
Will these unique cabinets improve the kitchen workflow or potentially impede traffic patterns? Make sure the layout aligns logically with how you circulate through the cooking space.
Accommodate Fixtures
If adding a bridge cabinet near appliances, carefully measure clearances to ensure the cabinet won’t obstruct appliance doors or functions.
Installing Sit-On-Top Cabinets
Getting a perfect fit with sit-on-top cabinets requires careful planning and precision. Here are some top tips for smooth installation:
Take Precise Measurements
Carefully measure the countertops, ceiling height, appliances, windows, and any other adjacent features multiple times. Even 1/4″ discrepancies can keep cabinets from sitting flush.
Ensure Level Counters
Counter surfaces must be perfectly level and flat for cabinets to seat securely. Use a level tool to identify any uneven spots that need correction.
Securely Fasten Cabinets
Use ledger boards, brackets, or other sturdy supports to anchor the cabinets into the wall studs. This prevents tipping or separation over time.
Caulk Seams for a Flush Fit
Fill any cracks or gaps against the wall with caulk to prevent moisture intrusion and achieve a flush, built-in look.
Add Trim Pieces as Needed
For refined edges where cabinets meet other surfaces, install coordinating trim pieces for the perfect finishing touch.
Install Functional Interior Fittings
Take advantage of the interior cabinet space by including pull-out shelves, drying racks, slide-out baskets and other smart additions.
Cabinet and Installation Costs
Because they require custom sizing and specialty installation, sit-on-top cabinets typically cost more than freestanding models. However, they may still provide cost savings compared to a full kitchen remodel. Here’s an overview of typical costs:
- Cabinets – $100-$350 per linear foot, depending on size, materials and features
- Labor – $50-$100 per hour for installation
- Countertop modifications – $40-$100 per linear foot to cut openings for integrated cabinets
- Trim pieces and hardware – $5-$20 per linear foot
While not cheap, sit-on-top cabinets are one of the most budget-friendly ways to increase storage and transform the look of a kitchen. The project can usually be completed over a weekend without requiring a full renovation.
Creative Alternatives to Consider
Standard sit-on-top cabinets offer excellent function and aesthetics. But you also have some other options if you’re looking for more openness or unique design elements:
Wall-Mounted Shelving
Install floating shelves or metal rails along the walls to display cookbooks, plants and pretty dishes without blocking sight lines.
Glass-Front Cabinetry
Glass-front upper cabinets maintain visibility while neatly tucking away loose items. LED lighting illuminates interiors.
Open Shelving Near Appliances
Rather than a full bridge cabinet, open shelves over the stove or sink provide storage while allowing more breathing room.
Narrower Cabinet Units
Use narrower cabinets just 12″-18″ wide to house spices, oils and other essentials without overwhelming the space.
When designed and installed meticulously, kitchen cabinets mounted on the countertops provide a space-saving storage solution. They allow small kitchens to make the most of unused vertical volume while concealing visual clutter. While requiring careful planning, sit-on-top cabinets deliver excellent function and contemporary styling.
Just be sure to choose units that match your cooking workflow and layout. Leave adequate countertop workspace and factor in other critical clearances. With smart incorporation, you can gain storage and transform the look of your kitchen with this unique cabinetry design.
