Every kitchen needs storage—but how you incorporate it can dramatically affect the look and feel of your space. Two of the most common choices for upper wall storage are traditional upper cabinets and open shelving. While both serve a similar function, they offer very different design aesthetics, organizational approaches, and levels of maintenance.
At ECS Cabinetry, we specialize in custom American-made cabinets and shaker-style RTA cabinetry, helping homeowners create smart, stylish kitchens that match their needs. If you’re torn between installing full upper cabinets or keeping things open, read on—we’ll break down the pros and cons of each so you can make the best decision for your kitchen remodel.
Why Upper Cabinets Are Still the Standard
Upper cabinets have been the go-to for decades—and for good reason. They provide maximum enclosed storage, conceal clutter, and make use of vertical space that might otherwise go unused.
✅ Pros of Upper Cabinets:
- More Storage Space – Upper cabinets can hold dishes, glassware, pantry goods, and more.
- Concealed Storage – No one has to see your mismatched mugs or extra paper towels.
- Style Options – At ECS, you can choose from sleek flat panel cabinets or timeless shaker styles in 100+ colors.
- Better for Small Kitchens – Helps maximize storage in tight layouts.
- Customizable Heights – Go all the way to the ceiling with custom cabinets for extra space and a seamless look.
💡 Design Tip: Opt for glass-front upper cabinets if you want the best of both worlds—concealed storage with a lighter, open feel.
The Case for Open Shelving
On the other hand, open shelving has become popular in recent years thanks to Pinterest, Instagram, and modern minimalist design trends. It offers an airy, casual look that can make a kitchen feel larger and more relaxed.
✅ Pros of Open Shelving:
- Visually Open – No cabinet boxes makes walls feel more spacious, especially in small kitchens.
- Easy Access – Quickly grab plates, bowls, or spices without opening doors.
- Decorative Display – Show off your nicest dishware, plants, or cookbooks.
- Affordable – Less material and labor than full upper cabinets.
💡 Style Tip: Open shelving works best when paired with closed lower cabinets to keep the kitchen functional and tidy.
Drawbacks to Consider
❌ Cons of Upper Cabinets:
- Can make small kitchens feel boxy or crowded.
- Might require a step stool to reach top shelves.
- More expensive than open shelving due to materials and hardware.
❌ Cons of Open Shelving:
- Requires constant tidiness—everything is on display.
- More cleaning (dust, grease buildup on dishes).
- Offers less overall storage compared to cabinets.
💡 ECS Insight: Many of our customers choose a hybrid layout—open shelving in a few strategic areas and upper cabinets where storage is needed most.
Hybrid Layout: The Best of Both Worlds
You don’t have to choose one or the other. Many modern kitchens incorporate a mix of upper cabinets and open shelving to balance aesthetics and practicality.
Popular Hybrid Designs:
- Open shelves above the sink, cabinets elsewhere.
- Floating shelves near the stove for spices and oils, uppers for pantry items.
- One wall of full-height cabinets, another with open shelving and tile backsplash.
At ECS Cabinetry, our designers can help you create a layout that blends both options, giving you the sleek, open look of shelving where it works best—and the hidden storage of upper cabinets where it counts.
How ECS Cabinetry Makes It Easy
Whether you’re going with full-height cabinets, floating shelves, or a blend of both, ECS Cabinetry provides:
✅ Custom flat panel cabinets in 100+ modern finishes
✅ Shaker RTA cabinets in White, Gray, Blue, Green, and more
✅ Free kitchen design and layout assistance
✅ Recommendations on how and where to incorporate open shelving
✅ Matching countertops and flooring for a complete look
We’ll work with your measurements and goals to build a layout that fits your lifestyle, storage needs, and design taste—without the guesswork.
Which Option Is Right for You?
Here’s a quick summary to help you decide:
| Feature | Upper Cabinets | Open Shelving |
|---|---|---|
| Storage Capacity | High | Moderate |
| Organization Needed | Low | High |
| Visual Openness | Low to Medium | High |
| Maintenance | Low (closed doors) | High (dust/grease) |
| Cost | Higher (materials, hardware) | Lower (if installed DIY) |
| Style | Classic, traditional, modern | Casual, minimalist, trendy |
💡 Still unsure? ECS Cabinetry can walk you through the pros and cons during your free design consultation.
Get a Custom Layout with the Right Balance of Cabinets and Shelving
If you’re unsure about how to blend upper cabinets with open shelving—or want to explore different cabinet styles that suit your layout—ECS Cabinetry is here to help. We offer free kitchen design consultations and detailed price estimates when you submit your dimensions.
📞 Call ECS Cabinetry at (626) 631-9002
📍 Visit our showrooms in City of Industry or North Hollywood
📤 Submit your kitchen layout for a free design and quote:
👉 Click here
🔹 ECS Cabinetry – Helping You Design Smarter, One Cabinet at a Time.
