The classic upper cabinets, those rectangular staples of kitchen design, are making way for a fresh trend: open shelves and statement walls with full-height backsplashes. While this shift brings undeniable style, many homeowners are left wondering—what about storage? Don’t sweat it! There are plenty of innovative ways to make your kitchen both functional and fabulous.
At Brother and Brother Builders, a trusted local general contractor, we’ve seen how removing upper cabinets can completely transform a kitchen, creating an open, airy, and modern vibe. Here’s how you can embrace this trend without sacrificing practicality.
A New Era in Kitchen Design
For years, upper cabinets dominated kitchen walls, offering storage at the expense of visual space. Later, the klappa—a horizontal cabinet at eye level—became a popular alternative. While functional, it wasn’t for everyone, with many homeowners finding its design and mechanisms less than ideal.Fast forward to today, and the klappa is also bowing out. The stars of modern kitchens are open shelving and backsplash walls that extend to the ceiling. This change offers a unique opportunity to balance aesthetics and storage in creative ways.
Bold and Beautiful: The Full-Height Backsplash
One of the most striking options is a backsplash that climbs all the way to the ceiling. Whether you continue your countertop material for a cohesive look or go bold with contrasting tiles, this approach delivers instant drama.
- Floating shelves: Add floating shelves that match your lower cabinets for a harmonious design.
Decorative glass-front cabinets: Use these to display your prettiest dishes and cups while doubling as a design statement.
Minimalism Meets Modernity
In sleek, minimalist apartments, kitchens are taking a turn toward industrial-chic. Stainless steel paired with open shelving creates a clean, modern aesthetic. Raising the shelving or cabinets off the floor enhances the light, open feel, making even small kitchens seem spacious.
Turn Your Kitchen Wall into a Feature
In open-concept homes, where the kitchen is visible from all angles, the main kitchen wall becomes a design focal point. This is your chance to create a “power wall” using materials like:
- Natural stone
- Mosaic tiles
- Textured wood panels
Pair these with open shelves to display attractive cookware, plants, or even artwork for a unique, functional space.
Creativity Over Cabinets
Removing upper cabinets doesn’t mean losing personality. Use the newfound wall space to:
- Install shelving made of reclaimed wood for a rustic vibe.
- Add a chalkboard wall for notes or meal planning, sealed for durability.
Incorporate small hanging plants or light fixtures for charm and utility.
Simplify with Style
For those who prefer a minimalist approach, one or two floating shelves paired with a hidden range hood can create a sleek, streamlined kitchen. Consolidate larger appliances like the fridge and microwave into a single tall storage wall, keeping everything else clutter-free.
Your Kitchen, Reimagined
Saying goodbye to upper cabinets doesn’t mean sacrificing functionality—it’s about rethinking how you use your space. Open shelves and feature walls let you highlight your style while maintaining a practical and organized kitchen.If you’re ready to take the leap, let Brother and Brother Builders, your trusted local general contractor, guide you through your kitchen remodel. With our expertise, we’ll help you design a space that’s modern, functional, and uniquely yours.
Contact us today to start your kitchen transformation and make the most of every inch of your home!
