Save Space with Shallow Depth Kitchen Wall Cabinets

Do you live in a small kitchen with limited cabinet space? Are your kitchen cabinets feeling cramped and cluttered? Deep wall cabinets can make a kitchen feel closed in and dark. However, shallow depth kitchen wall cabinets offer an innovative storage solution to open up petite kitchens.

Shallow cabinets provide the style and functionality of wall storage without dominating the room. Keep reading to learn how shallow depth cabinets can maximize your kitchen layout.

What are Shallow Depth Kitchen Cabinets?

Standard kitchen cabinets have a depth around 12 to 24 inches. This provides ample storage but protrudes significantly into the kitchen space. Shallow depth kitchen cabinets are much less deep, typically ranging from 3 to 6 inches.

The reduced depth allows the cabinets to tuck against the wall neatly. Visually, this makes the kitchen appear more open and airy. The floor space also feels expanded since the cabinets do not jut out as far.

Benefits of Shallow Depth Kitchen Cabinets

There are many benefits to choosing shallow depth wall cabinets for your kitchen remodel or new build.

• Gain floor space - Since shallow cabinets project less, you reclaim valuable floor area.
• Allow more natural light - Sunlight can penetrate deeper into the kitchen.
• Visually open up smaller kitchens - The eye perceives the space as larger.
• Easier accessibility - No more climbing to reach items in deep cabinets.

Drawbacks of Shallow Depth Cabinets

The downside to shallow cabinets relates to their storage capacity. With less depth, you simply cannot fit as much inside the cabinets.

Other potential drawbacks include:

• Difficult to store larger items like mixing bowls.
• More visible clutter if disorganized.
• Upper cabinets may appear to "float" off the wall.

Maximizing Storage in Shallow Depth Cabinets

While shallow cabinets limit storage versus deeper cabinets, clever solutions can help you stay organized. Some tips include:

• Incorporate vertical storage with dividers, racks, and tiered shelves.
• Use storage inserts like pull out trays and specialized racks.
• Try glass-front cabinet doors to deceive the eye.
• Mix some standard depth cabinets for less used items.

Creative Storage Solutions

Take advantage of every inch of space with smart shallow cabinet storage ideas:

• Spinning corner racks and lazy susans.
• Slide out shelves and trays.
• Plate racks and pan lid racks.
• Spice drawer organizers.
• Tiered shelves and vertical dividers.

Shallow Cabinet Design Tips

A successful shallow cabinet design strikes the ideal balance between form and function. Keep these tips in mind:

• Focus shallow cabinets near prep zones like above the stove.
• Combine with glass-front cabinets and open shelving.
• Avoid having all cabinets be shallow depth.
• Use deeper cabinets for less accessed items.

Material and Style Options

The material and style of your shallow cabinets also impacts their appearance. Consider:

• Glass-front cabinets to complement shallow depth.
• Painted cabinets to help them visually recede.
• Mix of materials like wood, glass, and metal.
• Shelving rather than upper cabinets if needed.

FAQs About Shallow Depth Kitchen Cabinets

If you are considering shallow cabinets, you likely have some questions. Here are answers to some of the most frequent shallow cabinet concerns.

What types of items work best in shallow cabinets?

Shallow cabinets work well for dishes, glasses, food staples like spices and dry goods, as well as frequently used pans and appliances.

What depth is ideal for shallow cabinets?

5 to 6 inches depth provides a good compromise between space and storage capacity. 3 to 4 inches is very limiting.

Should all upper cabinets be shallow depth?

Most designers recommend only some shallow upper cabinets. Include some standard 12-inch depth cabinets for items not used daily.

Shallow cabinets can hold plates stacked two deep, cereal bowls, mugs, spices, canned goods, etc. Vertical storage maximizes the space.

Shallow depth kitchen wall cabinets allow you to gain floor space without completely sacrificing needed storage. Get creative with your layout and storage solutions to enjoy both style and function.