
Many people specifically seek out properties with high ceilings, as they have a bright, airy and open feel, which can feel grand and characterful. However, if you also want your kitchen to be a warm, inviting and functional space, there are a few design tips to keep in mind to ensure each element sits harmoniously within the space.

Cabinets and Kitchen Unit Doors Design Tips
Optimise your kitchen’s height with vertical cabinets and shelving
High ceilings offer an ideal opportunity to equip your kitchen with plenty of vertical storage solutions to optimise the functionality of your space. Tall cabinets can be used to house items that you don’t necessarily need on a daily basis, leaving lower cabinets free for the cookware, servingware and ingredients you use more frequently.
Matching your kitchen unit doors across your entire kitchen will create a sense of cohesion, however you could also choose different colours for your top and bottom cabinets to encourage the eye to take in the full height of the space.
Pro Tip: Installing open shelving is another way to draw the eye upwards and emphasise the sense of space. Curate a selection of decorative items you’d like to display, taking care not to overcrowd each shelf.

Establish balance with layered lighting
High ceilings create a real sense of spaciousness, however they can also make it slightly more difficult to evenly light a room to make it feel inviting and cosy. Kitchens benefit from layered lighting in general, however you may need to be a little more purposeful in your choices if you’re working with very high ceilings.
A large chandelier can further emphasise the sense of grandeur, however, any statement pendant light will work if chandeliers aren't to your personal taste. Your space will also benefit from recessed lighting throughout, particularly in areas that need to be very well lit, such as your work surfaces, sink and cooker.
Pro Tip: Installing under-cabinet lighting is a straightforward and seamless way to ensure your surfaces are receiving enough light to help you safely and easily prepare meals.
Create warmth and interest by decorating your ceiling
If your space feels stark or uninviting, decorating your ceiling is an excellent and creative way to bring a little more personality and visual interest to the room. In a traditional property, exposed wooden beams or an intricate coffered ceiling can be a striking addition, but if you’re looking for something slightly more understated, decorative plaster coving and moulding can be equally as effective.
If you’re working with a more modern space, wallpaper and paint can be used to bring contrast and boost the overall sense of cosiness you feel every time you enter your kitchen.

Incorporate textiles to soften the space
If your high-ceilinged space feels a bit echoey, incorporating textiles is a straightforward and stylish way to soften the room and enhance the comfort. Runners and rugs are ideal for creating some warmth underfoot while full-length curtains can easily frame your windows and keep out any draughts from outside.
Integrating upholstered seating is another way to introduce texture while also making it easier for you to socialise with others in your kitchen. If you want your kitchen to be the heart of your home, seating is essential.
Create cohesion with colour
Choosing the right colour palette for a space with high ceilings is key, as it will help you to create a sense of cohesion and establish an atmosphere that’s perfect for relaxing, socialising and preparing your favourite meals.
Kitchen unit doors in two different colours can ground your space while also emphasising its height, particularly when using light toned upper cabinets and richer coloured lower cabinets.
Another option is to choose kitchen unit doors with a warm wood finish, such as the Bella Venice in Halifax Natural Oak and introduce colour with fresh herbs and houseplants, bold wallpaper, or eye-catching tiling.

Kitchen Unit Doors from Happy Doors
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From handleless kitchen unit doors with a sleek and sophisticated finish to panelled Shaker style doors which exude timeless character, you’ll find your perfect match at Happy Doors.
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