Taking Cabinets to New Heights

Ceiling height cabinets provide extra storage an accentuate space in a kitchen.

While the monochromatic paint colors were the first thing to grab my attention in these kitchens with ceiling height cabinets, the next features noticed were the extremely tall cabinet doors.  Many worry doors of this size will warp over time but an experienced cabinetmaker should calm any fears.  Custom cabinetry in this Swedish apartment [top] was painted a soft Gustavian gray, famous in the region and favored by many around the world.  The wall of cabinets and the uppers are inset, while the lower doors and drawers are slab front.  By designing the upper cabinets with “legs” to rest on the counters, the two end sections become hutch-like.  Classic Carrara marble slabs were used on the backsplash and counter for a modern feel.

Top of the line appliances were hidden away in this kitchen, including a smooth cooktop that virtually disappears, for an uncluttered appearance.  Original details of the building, such as high baseboards and white walls, were kept and restored.  We’re seeing more white pigmented oak floors nowadays, no doubt a rebellious move from those tired of the dark stained flooring that have been so popular over the past decade.

Closer to home, raised panels were mixed with tongue and groove doors that, from a distance, look to be wood paneled walls.  A collection of soft Benjamin Moore paint colors (listed below) created a calming place to entertain.  Surf Green polished granite counters and backsplash add more of the color. The island is topped with white quartzite — a natural stone that looks like marble but is much more durable and stain-resistant.  The cooktop base and vent hood were raised to accommodate the homeowner’s height.  Strip outlets were installed to the underside of the upper cabinets in both kitchens to leave an uninterrupted backsplash.  Two more kitchens where the cabinets raise the design bar.

Benjamin Moore Paint Colors:
Cooktop and Island Base Cabinets – BM #1531
Paneled Cabinets – BM Coastal Fog
Wall and Ceiling – BM Early Morning Mist

(Sources: Karlavagen 76, Standard Creative)

For other innovative kitchen designs see Antique Gray Hutch Kitchen and Barcelona Modern Kitchen.

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