In these modern times, floating kitchen cabinets are widely used almost in every kitchen layout and are one of the most vital kitchen components. Not only do these kitchen cabinets offer exceptional visual appeal, but they also provide a seamless and accessible storage solution.
You can say floating kitchen cabinets are an integral part of every kitchen irrespective of the kitchen design, layout, and kitchen type.
In this article I am going to discuss all aspects of floating kitchen cabinets and their benefits, keeping the needs of actual kitchen users in mind.
What is a Floating Kitchen Cabinet?
Floating kitchen cabinets are a unique type of kitchen cabinet that is securely installed directly onto walls. It is fully dependent on walls for its structural stability. It is also known as wall-mounted kitchen cabinets, creating an illusion of floating effortlessly in space.
These types of cabinets not only add style and modernity to your kitchen but also offer practical advantages like functionality, Storage solution, and space optimization.
These kitchen cabinets are primarily positioned in the overhead areas of the kitchen, ensuring easy accessibility. Referred to by some as kitchen overhead units, these floating cabinets are commonly found in the middle section between the upper cabinets/lofts and the base cabinets. They are often installed straight along with the kitchen cooker hood or chimney, adding to their functional and aesthetic appeal.
Nevertheless, it is possible to transform any kitchen cabinet into a floating cabinet by ensuring proper wall support, extending from the base cabinet to the upper section. It is important to note that floating cabinets can bear a specific weight limit since they lack support from the floor.
Importance of Floating Kitchen Cabinet
Why should you consider floating kitchen cabinets?
What are the benefits of incorporating floating kitchen cabinets?
Do they solely provide visual appeal or offer additional functional advantages?
Before installing floating kitchen cabinets, you likely have numerous questions that require clear answers.
So, let’s move to the next part and discuss the various advantages of floating kitchen cabinets.
Utilizing Vertical Space
The primary reason for installing floating kitchen cabinets is to use the vertical space effectively. Optimizing floor space while maximizing vertical space utilization is not only wise but also highly recommended for achieving a clutter-free kitchen layout. With floating kitchen cabinets securely mounted on the wall, your floor space remains unobstructed, allowing for seamless movement and enhancing the overall workflow within your kitchen. This is particularly beneficial for small kitchens where space optimization is crucial.
Better Accessibility
What we all need in a kitchen is easy access while performing various tasks. So the kitchen design must make it simple to access kitchenware, especially for those with mobility issues. Users with floating cabinets can easily access frequently used products since they can be adjusted to the ideal height. This adjustment makes the kitchen more comfortable and user-friendly while prioritizing ergonomics by reducing unnecessary bending or stretching.
Easy to Clean & Maintain
For many people, maintaining the kitchen and keeping it clean are the two key priorities. By reducing the amount of surface area that comes into touch with the floor, floating kitchen cabinets provide a useful alternative. Cleaning is easier and takes less time when there are no baseboards or lower edges which gather dust. These cabinets’ higher location also shields against unintentional spills and water damage from mopping or other cleaning procedures.
Organized Design
Floating kitchen cabinets provide a simple modern touch to your kitchen with their minimalist style. They are generally installed in an organized way and have clean lines with smooth finishes, giving them a seamless look. This design not only improves the overall appearance of your kitchen but also creates a sense of style and charm.
Customization Options
Floating kitchen cabinets can be easily customized with any kind of material. From steel to aluminum and from wood to any kind of finishing material it can be customized easily. Also, from L-shaped to Island kitchens and from one-walled to open kitchen concepts, floating kitchen cabinets are an integral part of every kitchen layout.
You can also design it with various types of glass, and colors, make it handleless, and customized it to various sizes according to your requirement.
Easy Lighting Arrangments
Most of the kitchen cabinets are installed above the kitchen countertops. Incorporating LED strip lighting under these cabinets not only creates a captivating visual effect but also illuminates countertops, and highlights the kitchen backsplash and other decorative items. So, in addition to lending a touch of sophistication, focused task lighting is enhanced, improving the overall functionality.
How to Install Floating Kitchen Cabinets?
As I said above floating cabinets are wall-mounted units and are quite simple to install. Any carpenter can do it easily. It just has to be fixed on the walls using screws or studs.
If you’re looking to install a floating cabinet, here are some straightforward steps to guide you:
Step 1: Measure the wall area where you intend to place the cabinets and adjust their size accordingly.
Step 2: Mark the designated area on the wall using a marker or pencil to indicate the cabinet placement.
Step 3: Drill the wall at marked spots to create holes for the screws. Insert PVC sockets into these holes to securely hold the screws. Generally, a 2ft X 2ft cabinet requires four screws.
Step 4: Attach the cabinets to the wall by screwing them into the PVC sockets, ensuring a secure and stable installation.
To ensure the stability and weight-bearing capacity of your floating cabinets, keep the following considerations in mind:
Backer Thickness: The backer or backside material of the cabinet, whether it’s wood or plywood, should have sufficient thickness. Aim for a thickness of 12mm or 0.5 inches to provide adequate support for the load.
Wooden Support Brackets: If needed, you can utilize wooden support brackets to reinforce the cabinets and distribute the weight evenly. These brackets provide additional structural strength and stability.
Utilize Studs: Another option for floating cabinets is to secure them directly to wall studs. By attaching the cabinets to the studs, you ensure a sturdy and secure installation.
Right Place for Floating Kitchen Cabinets?
Where to fix the floating kitchen cabinets?
Can I use floating cabinets for my base, upper and middle cabinets?
Where is the best place in the kitchen to fix the floating cabinets?
These are some common questions that often come to our minds when selecting kitchen cabinets.
Let’s discuss it all.
Floating Kitchen Base Cabinets
While floating cabinets offer various advantages, it’s important to acknowledge their limitations. One significant drawback is their limited load-bearing capacity, as they solely rely on support from the wall without any connection to the floor.
Due to this, floating cabinets are not commonly used as kitchen base cabinets, which are designed to handle substantial loads. Base cabinets are specifically constructed to support countertops, heavy utensils, and various kitchen appliances, requiring a robust structure to bear the weight effectively.
While many individuals prefer to have a gap between their lower kitchen cabinets and the floor for easier cleaning, it’s still essential to provide proper support. In such cases, you can utilize wooden or steel legs to offer the necessary stability and support from the floor while maintaining the desired gap. This approach allows for convenient cleaning while ensuring the cabinets remain securely positioned.
Floating Kitchen Overhead Cabinets or Middle Cabinets
The ideal location to install floating cabinets is in the kitchen overhead area. Placing them here offers multiple benefits: easy accessibility and enhanced visual appeal. By positioning the cabinets in this space, you can conveniently reach items while adding a stylish touch to your kitchen décor.
It is recommended to fix them at a 2 feet distance from the countertop so that you can reach and use them easily. We often mention this 2 feet area as the kitchen backsplash.
In addition to the countertop area, you have the flexibility to incorporate floating cabinets on other walls based on your storage needs. However, I advise against filling every wall with cabinets. Overcrowding the space can detract from the overall aesthetics and potentially disrupt the workflow in your kitchen. It’s important to strike a balance between storage and maintaining an open and efficient environment.
Floating Kitchen Upper cabinets
The upper space in the kitchen, above the overhead unit area, is typically left empty or utilized for storing items that are not frequently used. This space serves multiple purposes, including concealing the exhaust pipe and creating a seamless look in the kitchen. By maximizing this area, you can maintain a tidy and organized kitchen while optimizing both functionality and aesthetics.
When considering upper cabinets, I recommend opting for door frames, also known as lofts, that receive support from the overhead floating cabinets. This approach allows for efficient use of space while maintaining structural integrity, without the need to construct full cabinets which also helps you to minimize cost.
However, if you wish to have upper cabinets in areas beyond the overhead space, it is necessary to install floating cabinets as they will not have support from any other source. This ensures stability and functionality while providing additional storage options for your specific needs.
Floating Shelves Vs Cabinets
To make an informed decision on whether to choose floating shelves or floating cabinets, let’s compare the two options and analyze their respective benefits and considerations. This will help you determine the most suitable choice based on your specific needs and preferences.
| Aspect | Floating Shelves | Floating Cabinets |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Cost effective | Higher Cost |
| Durability | Depends on how you use and the weight you put on it. | Heavier and bear much load than floating shelves. |
| Design | Open | Closed cabinets with doors and drawers. |
| Usage | To display items. | To store items. |
| Accessibility | Easy to access. | Easy to access. |
| Storage | Limited Storage. | Larger Storage capacity. |
| Installation | Easy to install. | Complex than the shelves. |
| Customization | Adjustable to various heights | Adjustable shelves. |
FAQ’s
The actual height where you Hang Floating Cabinets?
You can hang floating cabinets anywhere on the wall. But for easier accessibility, it is recommended to hang it above a 2 feet distance from the countertop. If you want to fix it other than the countertop area then keep a distance of 4.5 feet to 5 feet from the floor.
Are floating kitchen cabinets secure and stable?
Floating kitchen cabinets can be secure and stable if you install them properly. Use thicker and more dense material as a backer or the backside of the cabinet as it gets supported only from the wall. You need to follow the proper installation process.
Are floating cabinets more expensive than traditional cabinets?
Floating kitchen cabinets are the same as traditional kitchen cabinets. The only difference is the installation process. However, the price of any cabinet depends upon the materials and design.
Can I install floating cabinets myself, or do I need professional help?
It’s not that difficult to install and all it requires is proper skill and specific tools. You also need to measure it properly and need someone as a helper. If you are not sure then seeking professional assistance is better.
Conclusion
Floating kitchen cabinets offer practicality, style, and space optimization benefits that make them suitable for any kitchen, regardless of its size or layout. These cabinets are a versatile and attractive solution for modern kitchens, providing both aesthetic appeal and functional storage options. With their ability to maximize space and enhance the overall design, floating kitchen cabinets are a valuable addition to any kitchen environment.
