Tips to Add Additional Kitchen Cabinets: Smart Storage Solutions for Every Home

Consider adding additional cabinets to your kitchen if you frequently run out of storage space. Whether you’re remodeling, refreshing, or simply running out of space, new cabinets can completely transform the functionality and appearance of your kitchen. But what’s the best way to add kitchen cabinets without overspending or compromising design?

In this complete guide, we’ll share expert tips on how to add extra kitchen cabinets—DIY ideas, space-saving solutions, layout strategies, and budget-friendly hacks.

Why Add Additional Kitchen Cabinets?

Before diving into how, let’s understand why it’s worth the investment:

Maximize unused vertical and horizontal space
Hide clutter and create a more organized kitchen
Improve your kitchen’s resale value
Allow for better categorization of utensils, cookware, and pantry goods
Create a built-in look without a complete remodel

1. Assess Your Available Space

Start by identifying unused or underused areas in your kitchen:

Above the refrigerator or range hood
Below existing upper cabinets
On empty walls
In corners
Under breakfast bars or islands
Next to windows or doors

Pro Tip: Use painter’s tape to map out where new cabinets could fit.

2. Match Your Existing Cabinets (Or Don’t)

You have two style choices when adding more cabinets:

Match Existing Cabinets:

Ideal for a seamless, built-in look
Great for resale or keeping design consistent
It may require custom cabinet orders or working with the original manufacturer

Mix and Contrast:

Try open shelving next to solid doors
Use glass-front cabinets for visual variation
Paint new cabinets a complementary color for a bold, modern design

Style Idea: Add contrasting cabinets to your island or pantry wall for a custom look.

3. DIY Cabinet Install vs. Hiring a Pro

DIY:

Great for pre-assembled or RTA (Ready-to-Assemble) cabinets
Can save hundreds to thousands in labor costs
Needs basic tools: drill, level, screws, measuring tape

Best for: Simple wall installs, replacing existing boxes, or adding open cabinets

Professional Install:

Ideal for custom cabinetry or electrical/plumbing rerouting
Ensures precise leveling and long-term durability

Cost Range: $100–$300 per cabinet (excluding cabinet cost)

4. Budget-Friendly Cabinet Addition Ideas

Not ready for custom cabinets? Try these innovative alternatives:

Use Base Cabinets as a Buffet or Coffee Bar

Install a row of base cabinets with a countertop for extra prep and storage space.

Add Stock Cabinets on Empty Walls

Inexpensive and available at hardware stores like IKEA, Home Depot, or Lowe’s

Stack Cabinets to the Ceiling

Add smaller upper cabinets above your existing ones for vertical storage
Great for seasonal kitchenware or items you rarely use

Convert Furniture Into Cabinets

Repurpose hutches, sideboards, or bookshelves with doors and paint

5. Use Vertical Space Efficiently

Don’t forget the top 1–2 feet of your kitchen walls. Some ideas:

Add open shelves between cabinets and ceilings
Install floating cabinets above doors or windows
Use narrow, tall cabinets in awkward spaces for broom or pantry storage

Wall cabinets come in various heights (12″, 18″, 24″, 30″, 36″, and 42″). Mix sizes to suit your needs.

6. Consider Modular or RTA Cabinets

Modular kitchen cabinets are pre-made and designed to fit various configurations.

Benefits:

Easier to install

More affordable

Easily replaceable or upgradeable

Excellent sources: IKEA METOD system

Lowe’s Diamond NOW cabinets
Home Depot Hampton Bay

7. Don’t Forget About Cabinet Interiors

Maximizing storage isn’t just about the cabinet box—it’s about what’s inside.

Smart Storage Additions:

Pull-out shelves or drawers
Lazy Susans for corners
Vertical dividers for baking sheets
Under-cabinet hooks for mugs
Door-mounted racks for spices or lids

Tip: Install LED lighting inside new cabinets for better visibility.

8. Try These Unconventional Cabinet Addition Ideas

Toe-kick drawers under base cabinets for flat items like baking trays
Wall-mounted upper cabinets in dining or breakfast areas
Corner swing-out cabinets for improved access
Mini pantry towers beside fridges or ovens

9. Repurpose and Reuse for a Sustainable Option

Don’t overlook reclaimed or used cabinets:

Browse Facebook Marketplace, Habitat for Humanity ReStores, or Craigslist
Sand and repaint to match your kitchen
Replace knobs and handles for a quick refresh

Eco-friendly, affordable, and gives your kitchen character.

FAQs: Adding More Cabinets in Your Kitchen

How much does it cost to add new kitchen cabinets?

Depending on materials and installation:

Stock cabinets: $100–$300 per cabinet
Semi-custom: $200–$600 per cabinet
Custom cabinets: $500–$1,200+ per cabinet

Can I add new cabinets without remodeling the whole kitchen?

Yes! As long as you measure accurately and match or coordinate the style, you can add one or more cabinets without needing to replace existing ones.

Should I match new cabinets with existing ones?

You can either match or contrast—both can look great if done thoughtfully. Matching gives a seamless, built-in look; contrasting can create intentional visual interest.

Can I add cabinets to an apartment kitchen?

Yes, especially if you use freestanding cabinets, wall-mounted shelves, or portable pantry cabinets that don’t require permanent installation.

Final Thoughts: Make the Most of Your Kitchen Space

Adding more kitchen cabinets doesn’t need to be expensive or stressful. With thoughtful planning and the right tools, you can significantly increase storage capacity, reduce clutter, and enhance functionality. Whether you’re doing a complete DIY kitchen upgrade or simply adding one or two new cabinets, every inch counts when it comes to smart kitchen storage.

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