Overhead Kitchen Cabinet Types & Configurations

Overhead kitchen cabinets are a staple in modern kitchen design, playing a vital role in aesthetics and functionality. These top kitchen cabinets help to maximise storage space and create a sense of balance and organisation, seamlessly tying the kitchen together. Whether working with a compact cooking area or a sprawling kitchen layout, overhead kitchen cupboards are versatile enough to suit every need. From storing dishes and pantry items to enhancing the visual appeal of your space, these cabinets are indispensable.

At Ross’s Discount Home Centre, we understand the importance of practicality and style in kitchen design. That’s why we offer various wall-mounted cabinets, ranging from single to double and even corner units, to cater to all kitchen sizes and layouts. With options like glass-front doors, open shelving, and hidden storage, these overhead kitchen cupboards are available to suit your specific needs.

Today, we’ll explore the many benefits of overhead kitchen cabinets, their role in modern kitchen design, and how they can enhance both small and large kitchens. You’ll also learn about the various types and configurations we provide, the standard sizes for easy installation, and a comparison between custom and ready-made options. Whether planning a kitchen renovation or looking for a quick upgrade, you will find the right solution with our pre-assembled cabinets.

Benefits of Overhead Kitchen Cabinets

Overhead kitchen cabinets offer more than just a storage place—they bring significant advantages that transform your kitchen into a more functional and aesthetically pleasing space.

• Storage Optimisation: With overhead kitchen cabinets, you can maximise your kitchen storage without sacrificing floor space. These cabinets keep cookware, dishes, and pantry items neatly organised and readily accessible. From daily essentials to occasional-use items, overhead cabinets ensure everything has a designated spot.
• Declutters Benchtops: One of the biggest benefits of overhead kitchen cabinets is their ability to keep benchtops free from clutter. By relocating items like appliances, spices, or utensils to wall-mounted storage, you create more workspace for food preparation and cooking.
• Visually Balances the Kitchen: Overhead kitchen cupboards help create a cohesive and balanced look by complementing base cabinets and surrounding appliances. Their placement above the benches and along walls ties the kitchen design together, offering a polished and unified appearance.
• Increases Property Value: A well-organised kitchen with overhead cabinetry is a significant drawcard for potential buyers. These cabinets elevate the space and showcase a functional and thoughtful design, which can increase your home’s resale value.
• Customisable Configurations: Whatever your design preferences, overhead kitchen cabinets can adapt. There’s something for every taste, from open shelving for a contemporary touch to glass-panelled doors for a bright aesthetic. If you’re curious about choosing between open shelving and traditional cabinet designs, check out our guide on Open Shelving vs. Traditional Cabinets.

Read more in our article on Organising Your Kitchen Cabinets to maximise the functionality of your overhead cabinets.

The Role of Wall Cabinets in Kitchen Design

Wall cabinets play a significant role in shaping your kitchen’s style and functionality. These versatile kitchen wall cabinets look great while serving a practical purpose, combining storage and aesthetics effortlessly.

The placement and design of kitchen overhead cabinets directly impact your kitchen’s aesthetic. They offer an opportunity to showcase your design style, whether modern, classic, or rustic. By aligning with base cabinets and appliances, they create a balanced and cohesive kitchen layout that feels inviting and well-organised.

Check out the Top 10 Kitchen Design Styles in Australia for some inspiration.

Material and Finish Choices Matter

The materials and finishes you choose for your wall cabinets can transform a kitchen’s look and feel. Sleek, glossy finishes suit modern cabinetry, while woodgrain textures warm traditional or country-style kitchens. Your cabinets act as a canvas, setting the tone for the rest of the space.

Integration with Other Elements

For a polished look, overhead wall cabinets must work harmoniously with the kitchen’s base cabinets, benchtops, and appliances. By carefully coordinating these elements, your space will flow seamlessly, visually and functionally, keeping everything within reach while maintaining a clutter-free environment.

Design Considerations for Wall Cabinets

Placement is key when it comes to functionality and aesthetics. Install kitchen wall cabinets at a height that feels accessible but doesn’t compromise visual flow – 65cm above the benchtop is fairly standard. Think about spacing, ensuring alignment with base cabinets and avoiding gaps. Accessibility is also crucial—choose cabinets with soft-close hinges or pull-out shelves to make using upper cabinets more accessible.

Check out the latest kitchen design trends for more ideas on creating stylish and cohesive kitchen spaces.

Types of Overhead Kitchen Cabinets

At Ross’s Discount Home Centre, we offer a wide selection of overhead kitchen cabinets to suit every kitchen layout and style. Here’s a breakdown of the cabinet types we stock, along with their best uses:

Wall Shelves

Wall shelves are perfect for open storage, decorative displays, or showcasing your favourite kitchenware. They work well in compact or modern kitchens where you want easy access to frequently used items while keeping the space visually open.

Single Wall Cupboards (Left/Right Hinge Options)

Ideal for smaller kitchens or modular kitchen setups, single wall cupboards come with left or right hinge options for flexibility. These compact cabinets are great for storing everyday essentials without taking up too much wall space.

Double Wall Cupboards

Double wall cupboards are a staple choice for standard-sized kitchens, offering balanced storage space for dishes, pantry items, and more. These cabinets provide versatility and a neat, cohesive look.

Three-Door Wall Cabinets

For larger kitchen setups, three-door wall cabinets offer plenty of storage space. They can hold everything from cookware to bulk pantry supplies, making them a practical option for families or frequent hosts.

Exhaust Fan Wall Cupboards

Designed to house rangehoods, exhaust fan wall cupboards combine practicality with style. They seamlessly integrate your rangehood while offering extra storage for spices, utensils, or other small items.

Above Refrigerator Wall Cupboards

Often overlooked, the space above the refrigerator is perfect for additional storage. These cupboards make storing infrequently used items such as baking trays or seasonal appliances easy, keeping clutter out of sight.

Microwave Hutch Wall Cupboards

Microwave hutch wall cupboards are an excellent solution for integrating your microwave into your kitchen layout. They free up valuable benchtop space while keeping appliances neatly tucked away.

Corner Wall Cupboards (Left & Right Hinged)

Make the most of unused corner spaces with left- or right-hinged corner wall cupboards. These cabinets are perfect for storing bulky cookware or any items you want to keep out of sight but within reach.

Explore these options on our Kitchen Wall Cabinets category page. From compact single cupboards to spacious three-door cabinets, we’ve got you covered!

Kitchen Overhead Cabinets for Small Kitchens

Small kitchens can feel challenging to organise, but kitchen overhead cabinets provide clever solutions for making the most of limited space. Here are some effective strategies for using overhead cabinets in small kitchens:

Utilise Vertical Space

You can maximise your kitchen’s vertical space by installing overhead kitchen cupboards that extend up to the ceiling. This design is perfect for storing infrequently used items like seasonal cookware while leaving lower shelves free for everyday essentials.

Read our article on How to Maximise Your Kitchen Space for more tips on utilising vertical space in small kitchens.

Incorporate Open Shelving

Open shelving is an excellent alternative to traditional cabinets in smaller kitchens. It adds an open feel to the room while keeping frequently used items, like dishes and spices, easily accessible.

For tips on optimising smaller kitchens, don’t miss our article on How To Make a Small Kitchen Look Bigger.

Choose Light Colours

Light-coloured overhead kitchen cabinets can create the illusion of a larger, more open space. They reflect light throughout the kitchen, making it feel bright and airy. Whites, creams, or pastel shades are popular choices for compact kitchens.

Opt for Multi-Functional Cabinets

Maximise your storage space by investing in versatile, multi-functional cabinets. Options with pull-out trays or adjustable shelving add versatility and efficiency to your kitchen organisation. These space-saving cabinets help you keep everything tidy without overcrowding your kitchen.

With these strategies, overhead kitchen cabinets can significantly improve your small kitchen’s functionality and appearance, turning it into a practical and stylish space.

Kitchen Overhead Cabinets for Large Kitchens

Large kitchens provide endless possibilities for creativity and functionality, and overhead cabinets help maximise their potential. Here’s why overhead cabinets in large kitchens are a must-have.

Why Overhead Cabinets Are Essential

If you have a large kitchen, overhead cabinets keep it organised and clutter-free. They offer ample storage for large families or anyone who loves to entertain. Keeping cups, glasses, and even small appliances tucked away ensures your kitchen looks tidy while making everything easy to find.

Overhead kitchen cabinets also help maintain an organised layout by designating storage zones. You can store less-used items in taller cabinets while keeping daily essentials at an accessible height. Aesthetic balance is another perk of using overhead cabinets. They fill in wall space, aligning perfectly with your base cabinets for a seamless and polished look.

Best Overhead Cabinet Configurations for Large Kitchens

1. Double & Three-Door Wall Cabinets
   Larger kitchens benefit from double or three-door wall cabinets that offer expansive horizontal storage. These are perfect for creating a visually balanced wall of cabinetry.
2. Above-Refrigerator Wall Cupboards
   Don’t waste the space over your fridge! Above-refrigerator cabinets are ideal for storing less-used items, like seasonal appliances, while keeping your kitchen layout tidy.
3. Microwave Hutch Wall Cupboards
   Free up your precious benchtop space by integrating appliances like a microwave into wall cupboards. These practical units offer both storage and functionality.
4. Corner Wall Cupboards
   Use every inch of available space by opting for corner wall cupboards. They ensure that no awkward or wasted gaps remain in your kitchen design, creating a smoother flow.

With features tailored to large kitchen layouts, overhead kitchen cabinets provide the perfect balance of utility and style.

Overhead Kitchen Cupboards Standard Sizes

At Ross’s Discount Home Centre, we stock ready-made overhead kitchen cupboards in standard sizes designed to suit a range of kitchen layouts. Here’s what you need to know about their dimensions and why standard sizing is important.

Standard Dimensions of Overhead Kitchen Cupboards

• Height: The standard wall cupboard height is 59.2cm.
• Depth: All cupboards have a depth of 30cm, ensuring they don’t encroach on your workspace while offering ample storage.
• Widths:
  • Single Wall Cupboards: Available in 20cm, 30cm, and 45cm widths, these are great for compact kitchens and modular designs.
  • Double Wall Cabinets: Available in 60cm, 80cm, and 90cm widths, these provide balanced storage for medium to large kitchens.
  • Three-Door Wall Cabinet: A spacious 120cm width option, perfect for larger kitchens needing extra storage.

Why Standard Sizing Matters

Standard sizes make your kitchen renovation simpler and more cost-effective. Here’s how:

1. Compatibility with Standard Kitchen Layouts: Our overhead kitchen cupboards are designed to fit seamlessly into most kitchen designs. Whether updating an older kitchen or installing a new one, these sizes work with standard layouts for easy integration.
2. Efficient Stacking & Alignment: Standard dimensions ensure overhead cupboards align perfectly with base cabinets. This alignment creates a clean, cohesive look and simplifies the design process—no guesswork involved.
3. Easier DIY Installation: Sticking to standard sizes allows easy DIY installation. Custom-made kitchen cabinetry often requires professional installation and can lead to higher costs. With our standardised cupboard sizes, you get great results without the added hassle.

With sizes carefully thought out for practicality and style, our overhead kitchen cupboards strike the perfect balance between function and design. Standard sizing means you don’t have to compromise on quality or ease of installation, ensuring your kitchen looks great while meeting all your storage needs.

Custom vs. Ready-Made Wall Mounted Cabinets

When choosing between custom and ready-made wall mounted cabinets for your kitchen, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons. Here’s a simple breakdown to help you decide what’s best for your needs.

Key Comparison Points

Why Pre-Assembled Cabinets Are a Great Option

Pre-assembled kitchen wall cabinets and wall mounted cabinet options from Ross’s Discount Home Centre strike an excellent balance of cost, convenience, and quality. They’re perfect for homeowners tackling a DIY kitchen renovation or those looking for a quick and stylish solution. With a range of sizes, finishes, and styles available, you can find something that suits your taste and blends well with your kitchen’s existing layout.

On the other hand, custom-built options are worth considering if you need highly tailored solutions for an unusual kitchen layout or very specific design requirements. However, the longer wait times and higher costs make them less practical for most homeowners, especially those working within a budget or tight timeline.

Read our kitchen cabinet buying guide for a more in-depth look the pros and cons of each option.

How to Install Overhead Kitchen Cabinets

Installing overhead kitchen cabinets can seem tricky, but with a little planning and patience, it’s manageable as a DIY project. It’s worth noting that the exact installation process will depend on your kitchen layout and the type of wall you’re working with. For example, plasterboard walls require securing into studs for stability, while concrete walls need specialised anchors.

General DIY Installation Steps

1. Measure & Mark Placement: Start by measuring and marking where the cabinets will go. Ensure the top of the overhead cabinets aligns neatly with the bottom of the ceiling or the desired height, and that they match up with your base cabinets for a seamless look.
2. Locate Wall Studs: Use a stud finder to locate wall studs. Overhead cabinets need to be securely fastened to the studs for support. If studs aren’t in the ideal spots, attach a horizontal wooden brace to anchor the cabinets.
3. Lift & Secure Cabinets to the Wall: With the help of another person (or a temporary support like a ledger board), lift the cabinet into place. Screw through the cabinet’s back panel into the marked stud locations using screws long enough to penetrate securely into the studs. Check that the cabinet is level before fully tightening the screws.
4. Check Alignment & Attach Doors: After all cabinets are installed, check that they align properly with each other. Adjust any hinges for smooth operation, and attach or reattach doors as required.

For a more detailed step-by-step guide, visit our complete installation guide on how to install kitchen cabinets.

By following these steps, you can install overhead kitchen cabinets confidently, ensuring they’re secure, level, and functional. If you’re unsure about tackling this as a DIY project, it’s always a good idea to consult a professional installer.

Conclusion

Overhead kitchen cabinets are more than just a practical addition to your kitchen—they’re a design element that brings balance, organisation, and functionality to any space. Whether you have a compact kitchen or a sprawling layout, they help you make the most of your walls by adding valuable storage space.

Throughout this article, we’ve explored the versatility of overhead kitchen cabinets. From different configurations tailored for small and large kitchens to standard sizing that simplifies installation, the benefits are clear. At Ross’s Discount Home Centre, we make it easier for homeowners and renovators by offering pre-assembled cabinets that combine affordability, quality, and style. Choosing ready-made cabinets isn’t just cost-effective; it’s a time-saving solution that fits seamlessly into your kitchen renovation plans.

If you’re ready to transform your kitchen and upgrade your storage, Ross’s Discount Home Centre is here to help. Explore our full range of overhead kitchen cabinets today and find the perfect fit for your home. With our high-quality, ready-made cupboards, your dream kitchen is closer than you think!