If your kitchen is stuffed to the brim with pots, pans, dishes, and food items but you’re still running out of storage space, it may be time to think vertically. Double stacked kitchen cabinets could be the clever solution to maximize your storage capacity without claiming more precious floor area.
What Are Double Stack Kitchen Cabinets?
Double stack kitchen cabinets refer to installing upper wall cabinets in two rows, one stacked directly over the other. This dual layer of cabinetry instantly doubles your storage potential compared to a single row of wall cabinets.
The key to double stacking is having sufficiently high ceilings – usually 9 ft or taller. This provides enough room to mount the upper cabinets at a useful height while leaving enough space between the top of the cabinets and the ceiling so the kitchen doesn’t feel too closed in.
Benefits of Double Stacked Cabinets
For kitchens tight on space, double stack cabinets offer several benefits:
- Doubles storage capacity – Great for kitchens with limited cabinet space
- Frees up counter and floor area – Reduces kitchen clutter
- Provides display space – Glass-front upper cabinets nicely show off dishes
- Visually appealing – Staggered floating cabinets add modern appeal
By expanding storage vertically along the walls, you can cram a lot more items into your kitchen without eating up valuable counter or floor space. Double stacking is ideal if you have plenty of wall space but limited base cabinet or countertop area.
Maximizing Vertical Storage Space
To truly maximize the potential of double stacked cabinets, consider these storage enhancing accessories and organizational tools:
LED Lighting
Installing LED strip lighting inside the upper cabinets creates better visibility. Since the top cabinets are harder to see into, built-in lighting makes finding items easier while adding ambiance.
Adjustable Shelves
Shelves that can be adjusted up and down, side to side, and tilted give flexibility. Customize shelf positions to accommodate differently sized items in the double stacked cabinets.
Motion Sensor Lighting
Handy motion activated lights automatically turn on when you open the upper cabinets. This adds convenience while saving you from fumbling for tiny light switches in the back of the cabinet.
Smart Storage Solutions
Pull-out shelves, lazy susans, and specially designed racks maximize your access to items stored in the double stacked cabinets. These storage solutions make items in the back reachable.
Design Considerations for Double Stacking
If you decide double stacking is right for your kitchen, keep these design tips in mind:
- Allow sufficient space between the top cabinets and ceiling for a clean, intentional look.
- Select upper cabinets with the same depth as lower cabinets for alignment.
- Consider a continuous layout versus staggered floating cabinets depending on your style.
- Incorporate glass-front upper cabinets to prevent a heavy, boxed-in feeling.
Pay attention to proportions for a cohesive, tailored aesthetic. Mix open and closed cabinets and consider under cabinet lighting for ambiance.
Potential Drawbacks to Consider
While double stacked cabinets offer expanded storage, there are some potential downsides:
- Requires high 9+ ft ceilings to accommodate the taller cabinets
- Upper cabinets will be more difficult to access
- Can have a cluttered, visually heavy look if stacked to the ceiling
- More expensive than single layer of cabinets
Be sure your ceiling height can handle a double layer. Factor in the cost investment and inconvenience of needing a step stool to reach items up high.
Tips for Accessing Top Cabinets
Since upper cabinets will be hard to reach, here are some handy solutions:
- Keep frequently used items in lower cabinets
- Use a sturdy step stool or ladder
- Install interior lighting to see items
- Incorporate glass-front upper cabinets
- Install pull down shelves
- Use lazy susans or turntables for corner cabinets
Take steps to ensure the upper cabinets don’t become wasted dark space but rather a highly utilized vertical storage expansion.
Double stacked kitchen cabinets unlock valuable extra storage real estate in your kitchen without claiming more floor space. While not right for every kitchen, double stacking can transform a cramped galley into an organized storage paradise.
Consider your ceiling height, budget, and willingness to use a step stool before taking the double stacked plunge. But if you need more storage with limited options, stacking your cabinets vertically could double your space.
