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Flip up kitchen cabinets - effortless access beyond ordinary

September 11, 2023 | Updated on: May 28, 2024

long white flip up cabinet over the sink

In search of cabinets for your kitchen, you can visit dozens of showrooms and review hundreds of cabinet designs until they all start to seem the same to you. Suddenly, horizontal kitchen cabinets catch your eye, and you become interested. Cupboards that open upwards look lovely and go well with the underbench row of drawers only.  Flip-ups are available in different styles, but the most common are flat-panel doors and those with glass inserts. This cabinet style is popular in Europe because it helps to utilize the limited room in small kitchens.

Vertical lift-up kitchen cabinets have a number of advantages. In certain kitchen settings, they help you to save space; they're out of your way and you don't have to step back when opening the cabinet door. A kitchen cabinet that opens upward still provides efficient storage. Wall cabinets that swing up may be a bit expensive, but they are also highly ergonomic to use in the kitchen. Once opened at the start of cooking, they allow you to have all your kitchen products on hand without the need to open or close cabinets.

Vertical-opening kitchen cabinets feature hinges that are attached to the top part of the cabinet box. This means that hinges do not interfere with the stored items and you have more space for your groceries and dishes. There are a lot of vertical opening system types to choose from. Some of them, like bi-fold opening hinges, are good for dish cabinets, others, such as parallel opening, allow to store bulk items, even appliances. Keep reading to fully grasp all the details of lift-up cabinets!

Types of kitchen cabinet lifts

swing up kitchen cabinets with glass doors

Now that we've set the stage for the kitchen cabinets that open upward phenomenon, you might be wondering why you should jump on the bandwagon. Well, here's the clincher: These cabinet doors that open upwards aren't just a passing trend; they're a transformative addition to your kitchen for several compelling reasons. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore the various types of vertical open kitchen cabinets and delve into how they work, with a special focus on kitchen cupboard lif up hinges and flip-up cabinet hinges.  

  • Vertical lift up hinges kitchen cabinets

Vertical lift upper cabinets are a game-changer in kitchen cabinet design. These cabinet hinges that open upwards allow cabinet doors to be raised vertically, offering easy access to the cabinet's contents without the need for clearance space in front. When installed, an upward-opening cabinet hinge creates a sleek and modern look in your kitchen.

How they work:

Upward-opening cabinet hinges are typically installed on the top of cabinet doors. When you press a button or use a handle, the door smoothly lifts upward, revealing the cabinet's interior. Soft-closing mechanisms ensure a gentle and quiet closing.

  • Swing up cabinet door hinges

Swing-up cabinet hinges, also known as pivot hinges, offer a unique and stylish way to access your cabinet's contents. These hinges enable cabinet doors to swing upward, providing unhindered access to the cabinet's interior.

How they work:

Cabinet hinge swing-up are installed on the sides of the cabinet and the door. A pivot point near the hinge allows the door to swing upward when pushed or pulled. These hinges often have hydraulic or pneumatic mechanisms for smooth and controlled motion.

  • Swing down hinges

Under-cabinet swing-down hinges are another innovative option for kitchen cabinets. Unlike traditional cabinet doors that swing outward, these hinges allow the door to swing downward, providing easy access to your cabinet's contents.

How they work:

A swing-down hinge is typically installed at the bottom of the cabinet door. When activated, the hinge allows the door to pivot downward, revealing the cabinet's interior. This design is especially useful for cabinets positioned at an elevated height.

  • Flip-up retractable cabinet door

A flip-up retractable cabinet door is a versatile solution that combines the benefits of both vertical and swing-up hinges. These cabinets feature doors that can flip up and retract into the cabinet, allowing full access to the interior while maintaining a sleek, unobtrusive appearance when closed.

How they work:

Retractable overhead cabinet doors are equipped with specialized mechanisms that allow the door to pivot upward and retract into the cabinet. This innovative lifting kitchen cabinet design saves space and provides easy access to your kitchen essentials.

  • Hydraulic kitchen cabinets

Hydraulic lifts for kitchen cabinets employ hydraulic mechanisms to control the movement of cabinet doors. Hydraulic pumps for kitchen cabinets are a popular choice for those looking for smooth and controlled cabinet door operation.

How they work:

A kitchen cabinet hydraulic hinge uses hydraulic pistons or dampers to control the opening and closing of cabinet doors. These hydraulic cabinet in kitchen mechanisms ensure a gentle and noiseless operation, preventing doors from slamming shut and reducing wear and tear over time.

Kitchen cabinet horizontal designs

lift upper cabinets with wood vertical grain

Kitchen cabinet doors are essential components that influence the aesthetic and functional aspects of your kitchen space. While traditional vertical cabinet designs have been the norm for years, the emergence of flip-up door kitchen cabinets is transforming the way we think about kitchen organization and style. In this section, we'll delve into a diverse array of horizontal kitchen cabinet layouts and designs, each offering unique aesthetics and practical advantages to enhance your kitchen.

  1. Horizontal kitchen cabinet design

Cupboard swing-up kitchen cabinets also commonly referred to as horizontal kitchen cabinets are your typical kitchen cabinets that open upward. However, they present a contemporary and visually striking option characterized by their broad, horizontally oriented cabinet doors and eccentric cupboard lift up door accessories. Typically used as top cabinets, these overhead swing-up kitchen cabinet designs not only offer easy access to kitchen essentials but also introduce a minimalist, clean look that can redefine the character of your kitchen.

  1. Horizontal kitchen wall cabinet

Horizontal wall kitchen cabinets are a design innovation that departs from the conventional vertical counterparts. Often employed as upper cabinets or lift up wall cabinets, they add a touch of contrast to the kitchen's vertical lines. This unique approach to cabinet design not only opens up new design possibilities but also facilitates convenient storage. What’s the difference between a lift-top cabinet in the kitchen from other cabinets? A horizontal wall cabinet kitchen can look sleek and modern and with a flip-up wall cabinet mechanism, it allows the entire cabinet to open seamlessly.

  1. Over the refrigerator flip up cabinets

Maximizing every inch of your kitchen space is essential, and over-refrigerator flip-up cabinets are a clever solution for the often-underutilized area above the fridge. These white horizontal cabinets for the kitchen, which can be flipped up when needed, unveil a concealed storage zone perfect for housing larger or less frequently accessed items, enhancing the kitchen's functionality and organization.

  1. Vertical bifold Kitchen cabinet doors

Vertical bifold Kitchen cabinet doors are a versatile and innovative design choice for modern kitchens. These doors consist of two panels that fold vertically, creating a unique and space-saving solution. When opened, they provide easy access to the cabinet's contents, and when closed, they maintain a sleek and uncluttered appearance in the kitchen. Vertical bifold cabinet doors are ideal for maximizing storage in tight spaces while adding a contemporary and stylish touch to your kitchen decor.

  1. Horizontal glass door kitchen cabinet

Horizontal wall kitchen cabinets with glass meld the sophistication of glass with the modern aesthetics of horizontal cabinet design. These kitchen cabinets with glass flip up doors serve as elegant showcases for your kitchenware while adding a touch of refined style to your culinary space. Swing up glass door kitchen cabinets blur the line between functional storage and decorative display.

  1. Horizontal bar on kitchen cabinet

Long horizontal cabinets for the kitchen are an integral part of the horizontal design trend. When mounted horizontally on cabinet doors or drawers, they introduce subtle yet impactful visual elements. These bars are both stylish and practical, providing a convenient grip for opening cabinet doors while reinforcing the horizontal theme of the design.

All type drawers

Horizontal kitchen cabinet designs are reshaping the way we think about kitchen aesthetics and organization. Offering a departure from traditional vertical configurations, these designs not only bring a fresh visual appeal but also enhance the overall functionality of your kitchen. Whether you opt for horizontal base cabinets, wall cabinets, glass door cabinets, or incorporate horizontal bars, these designs can elevate your kitchen's aesthetics while optimizing storage and accessibility. Consider integrating horizontal elements into your kitchen to create a contemporary, inviting culinary space that aligns perfectly with your style and practical needs.

Lift-up cabinet door features

laminate kitchen cabinets that open upward

Your kitchen cabinets are more than just storage; they are essential components of your kitchen's functionality and style. Lift-up cabinet doors are an innovative solution that not only enhances accessibility but also adds a touch of modernity to your kitchen space. In this section, we'll delve into the key features of swing up cabinet doors or flip up cabinet doors, focusing primarily on what is the difference in terms of usability and design, compared to outward doors.

  1. Sleek and space-saving design

Kitchen horizontal cabinets are designed to open vertically, making them ideal for kitchens with limited space. The absence of outward-swinging doors in lift kitchen cabinets creates a sleek and uncluttered appearance, giving your kitchen a contemporary and spacious feel.

  1. Easy access and visibility

Flip-up doors for kitchen cabinets provide easy access to the cabinet's contents. When the cabinet door vertical swing lift up, it stays in place, allowing you to see and reach everything inside without obstructions.

  1. Versatile styles and finishes

Lift-up kitchen cupboard doors are available in various styles, finishes, and materials to complement your kitchen's design. You can choose from traditional, modern, or transitional kitchen cabinet doors that open upward designs to match your overall kitchen aesthetic.

  1. Soft-close mechanism

Many kitchen cabinet doors that open upward come equipped with a soft-close mechanism that ensures gentle and quiet closing. This kitchen cabinet swing-up door feature prevents slamming and helps protect the cabinet door from wear and tear over time.

  1. Adjustable tension

Upward-opening cabinet doors often have adjustable tension settings, allowing you to customize the door's opening and closing force. This cabinet door that opens upward feature ensures that the door remains securely in place when open and closes smoothly.

  1. Variety of door sizes

Lift-up cupboard doors are available in various sizes, making them suitable for a wide range of cabinet configurations. From small upper cabinets to larger pantry doors, you can find lift-up options to fit your specific needs.

  1. Customization and personalization

Lift-up cabinet doors can be customized to suit your preferences, from the choice of handles to the type of glass used for inserts. You can personalize these doors to align with your unique style and functional requirements.

  1. Durable and low-maintenance

Lift-up cabinet doors are designed to be durable and resistant to wear and tear. Their low-maintenance nature ensures that they retain their functionality and appearance for years to come. 

Swing-up cabinet door hardware

Lift up cupboards and drawers with vertical hardware

Lift-up cupboard door hardware is a pivotal component in elevating both the style and functionality of your kitchen. It encompasses various elements, with hinges at the forefront, enabling the cabinet doors to pivot upwards for easy access to your kitchen essentials. These pull-up cabinet door hinges must be of high quality to ensure smooth and reliable swinging motion. Many flip-up cabinet door hardware incorporate hydraulic or pneumatic systems, ensuring controlled and gentle movement, enhancing safety and usability. Adjustable tension settings cater to door sizes and weights, while soft-close mechanisms prevent slamming, minimizing wear and tear.

Durability is key, often achieved through materials like stainless steel or heavy-duty plastics. Ergonomically designed kitchen cupboard lift-up door handles and pulls provide a comfortable grip, enhancing user experience and convenience. Beyond functionality, an upward-opening cupboard door offers aesthetic value, available in various finishes and styles to match your kitchen's design theme.

Choosing the right flip lift cabinet door hardware ensures not only a seamless and stylish addition to your kitchen but also an efficient and durable one. Whether you're planning a kitchen renovation or seeking an upgrade, swing-up cabinet doors with the appropriate hardware optimize accessibility while adding a sophisticated touch to your kitchen's overall look.

Wall cabinets that swing up pros and cons

dark vertical open cupboards and drawers in the small kitchen

The choice between kitchen cabinet vertical open-up and traditional hinged cabinets depends on your kitchen layout, style preferences, accessibility needs, and budget. To help you decide better, here are the pros and cons of flip-up kitchen cabinets.

Aspect

Pros

Cons

Space-saving

Vertical lift cabinet maximizes vertical space utilization.

Requires sufficient clearance above the cabinet for swinging up.

Easy access

Provides better visibility and access to items on the shelf.

May not be suitable for people with limited reach or mobility.

Aesthetic appeal

Pull-up kitchen cabinets add a modern and sleek design element to the kitchen.

May not match traditional or rustic kitchen styles.

Safety

Reduces the risk of accidentally hitting your head on an open cabinet door.

Required proper installation.

Customization

Lift up door cupboards allow for adjustable shelves and customization of interior storage.

Installation can be more complex and may require professional help.

Hidden storage

Conceals clutter and items when the cabinet is closed.

Items on the bottom shelf may be less accessible when the cabinet is fully open.

Cleanliness

Reduces dust and debris accumulation on cabinet doors.

May be harder to clean the top of the cabinet and hinges.

Cost

Generally more expensive than traditional hinged cabinets.

May require additional hardware and maintenance over time.

What can go wrong?

Vertical lift cabinet doors for overhang cabinets

Vertical swing lift-up mechanism for cabinet doors offers innovative solutions for modern kitchens. However, like any mechanical component, these lift up cabinet door hinges can encounter various issues over time. Below, we explore the potential problems that can arise with these lift up cabinet hinge mechanisms, addressing key concerns for homeowners and ensuring the longevity and functionality of their kitchen cabinets. 

  1. Hinge misalignment

The vertical swing lift-up hinges must be precisely aligned for smooth operation. If they are not installed correctly or become misaligned over time, the cabinet door may not swing up smoothly or might not close properly.

  1. Overloading

Exceeding the weight capacity of the swing up cabinet mount hinge in vertical opening cabinets can cause damage. When overloaded, this stay lift cabinet door hinge may not hold the door securely in the open position or may fail to keep it closed.

  1. Wear and tear

Like any mechanical component, stay-lift cabinet door can experience wear and tear over time. Frequent use, especially in high-traffic areas, can lead to hinge fatigue and reduced functionality.

  1. Lubrication Issues

Lack of proper lubrication in the hinge mechanism can result in increased friction, making lift hinges vertical opening cabinets difficult to open and close the cabinet door smoothly. This can cause strain on the parallel lift hinges and affect their longevity.

  1. Hinge corrosion

In environments with high humidity or exposure to moisture, the upward cupboard hinge stay may be susceptible to corrosion over time. Rust and corrosion can hinder the smooth operation of the lift-up mechanism.

  1. Inadequate support

The parallel lift-up hinges rely on proper support to function effectively. If the cabinet door is not appropriately balanced or if there is inadequate support for the door when it is in the open position, it can cause stress on the hinges.

  1. User mishandling

Improper use, such as forcefully slamming the cabinet door closed or abruptly letting it drop when opening, can cause damage to the lift-up cupboard door stays and the cabinet door itself.

Regular maintenance, proper installation, and following the manufacturer's guidelines can help mitigate these issues with vertical swing lift-up hinges for cabinet doors, ensuring their reliable and long-lasting operation.

FAQs

Article by:

Valentina Melnikova - Lead Designer at Cut2Size

valentina@cut2size.ca

Office 403.366.7411

Hi there! I’m a millwork designer and an owner of a kitchen cabinet manufacturing company. With a team of professionals, I work on designing and manufacturing high-end millwork. Combining professional designing and manufacturing skills is what allows us to develop and translate our plans into a reality through our uniqueness and exclusive ideas. Our employees are highly skilled and creative thinkers that also utilize their professionalism and experience to take millwork to the next level. I’m very familiar with the industry and I take on each project from the design to the final product. With that said, if you’re looking for design advice or technician help, you’re in the right place.