How to Add Height to Kitchen Cabinets: A Step-by-Step Guide

Looking to maximize your kitchen’s storage and style? Tall cabinets are a smart way to add both extra space and visual height to your kitchen, making the most of unused vertical areas. Whether your kitchen feels cramped or you simply want to update your look, knowing how to raise kitchen cabinets can transform your space without a full remodel.

To add height to your kitchen cabinets, you can either raise the existing cabinets by carefully removing and repositioning them higher on the wall, install new tall cabinet units above your current ones, or add decorative crown molding and shelving to create the appearance of taller cabinetry. Each method increases storage capacity while enhancing the overall design.

Understanding these options lets you choose the right approach for your kitchen’s layout and your storage needs. In this guide, we’ll walk you through practical steps on how to raise kitchen cabinets and explore alternative ways to incorporate tall cabinets that blend function with style.

Here are five steps for adding height to your kitchen cabinets:

1. First, carefully loosen and remove the screws securing the cabinet to the wall. Generally, there are only four screws, but ensure that the cabinet is fully unscrewed before tugging it off the wall to avoid causing any tears or damage.
2. Next, raise the cabinets to your desired height. Take careful measurements to ensure all cabinets are moved to the same level, using a level to double-check that each cabinet is even.
3. Re-screw the cabinet back into the wall. You might have to drill new holes in the wall if there aren’t any. Don’t unnecessarily drill through your cabinet again; simply screwing through the previous drill holes should work.
4. Once you’ve raised the cabinets, you might just have uncovered an unpainted patch on your wall where the cabinets used to be. The next step is to cover up this patch. You can either remodel and spice up your design with some decorative tiles, or simply use a lick of paint to match the color of the rest of your kitchen walls. Make sure to fill in any drill holes with putty and smoothen over the surface before you get your brushes out.
5. Make good use of all this new-found space under your cabinet! Install a narrow spice rack, mount an open shelf for additional storage, or set up larger appliances (like a coffee machine) under the cabinet for added functionality.

If you’re not a fan of unscrewing and screwing your cabinets all over again, try one of these alternative ways to add height to your cabinets for a more functional and sophisticated kitchen.

Crown molding can be a great way to make your cabinets look taller, raising the eye level and making your kitchen space look bigger. Installing new crown molding works especially well in traditional homes with an elegant design, such as homes with Colonial or Georgian cabinetry.

You can do this by yourself in three simple steps. Start by removing any existing crown molding, including nails and caulk. Carefully measure and cut out each new piece and mark out their positions. Nail, caulk, and paint the walls, and you’re done!

If a DIY project doesn’t row your boat, you can hire a professional to install new crown molding for you. They generally charge between $4 and $15 per linear foot for labor and supplies.

If you have enough space above your cabinets, installing an additional layer of cabinetry is the best way to add extra height to your kitchen cabinets. This also gives you additional storage space, which comes in handy in smaller kitchens. However, buying the best kitchen cabinets can be pricey, so this option is only suitable if you have a good budget.

When stacking an additional layer of cabinets, make sure the upper layer is approximately half the height of the original cabinets you have installed. You can add dramatic lighting and tinted glass doors or paint the cabinets a contrasting color to level up your kitchen space.

Installing a new layer of cabinets on top of your pre-existing cabinets may be slightly tricky, so it’s a good idea to call in a professional.

One way to make your cabinets taller is by installing a layer of shelves above them. Don’t place everyday-use items on top of the shelves as you might not be able to reach them easily. We recommend using these shelves for decorative purposes–put up a display of your favorite collectibles, a vintage vase, or your favorite thrifted tea set.

For the best kitchen cabinets to bring a boost to your kitchen’s aesthetic, 27EStore’s got you covered. Check out our wide array of options or reach out to an expert today!