In any kitchen, regardless of size, maximizing storage is essential, and this often means finding ways to use areas that are typically neglected. Even in a sprawling space, like Reese Witherspoon's home, the actress demonstrates this by installing strategic vertical kitchen cabinets that utilize tall areas commonly considered "dead" space.
Her white cabinetry, with glass fronts on the upper half, extends right up to the ceiling. Reese Witherspoon's vertical cabinets offer a practical technique that ensures every vertical inch is functional and is easily replicated in the most compact kitchens.
As we transition into the fall and winter seasons, when we often spend more time indoors and need to organize for holiday hosting, efficient storage becomes even more valuable.
Shop the look
With its adjustable design and stable-footed base, this Witherspoon-inspired stool is a chic and unique seating choice, reminiscent of the ones tucked under her kitchen island.
Elevate your counters with these gingham napkins, perfect for everyday meals or dinner parties. Pair with your favorite placemats, or napkin rings for a complete, stylish look that Reese would surely love. Plus, these napkins get even softer with every wash
Crafted from porcelain china, this plate features three figures in a garden framed by an intricate floral border, making it a nostalgic heirloom piece.
'In modern kitchen design, maximizing space while maintaining a visually appealing environment is essential. One of the most effective ways to achieve this balance is through vertical storage, allowing you to capitalize on the height of a kitchen and create ample storage without compromising on floor space,' comments Charlie Smallbone, the founder of Ledbury Studio.
Naturally, this kitchen storage technique is most beneficial in small kitchens where 'every inch of floor space matters.' However, as Witherspoon's example shows, going vertical has no drawbacks, as every room benefits from feeling functional, organized, and clutter-free. Beyond practicality, Smallbone notes an aesthetic advantage.
The designer explains that vertical cabinets, which reach the ceiling, 'draw the eye upward to create the illusion of a taller, more spacious kitchen'–an especially potent effect in smaller spaces where an open, airy feel is desired.
'Another reason to extend storage to the ceiling is to eliminate the awkward gap often found above standard kitchen cabinets. This unused space not only collects dust but can also become a cluttered and hard-to-maintain display area for decor items,' Smallbone says.
'By opting for bespoke tall cabinets, you close this gap completely, significantly reducing dust build-up and minimizing the need for frequent cleaning and upkeep, all while maintaining a sleek, streamlined look.' This benefit is particularly appealing during the colder months when deep cleaning is often a focus.
Tom Howley, the creative design director at the eponymous kitchen company, concurs, adding, 'Maximising vertical space with tall kitchen cabinets not only enhances storage but also creates a seamless, sophisticated look.'
'Cabinets that reach the ceiling eliminate wasted space and give the kitchen a cleaner, more streamlined appearance. Beyond functionality, tall cabinets draw the eye upwards, adding a sense of height and grandeur to the room, making the entire kitchen feel more spacious and luxurious.'
To capture more of Witherspoon's kitchen style, consider the inspired buys below. The tractor seat bar stool is particularly reminiscent of the rustic, industrial pieces spotted in her space, offering a cozy contrast to the sleek vertical cabinets.
