While extending cabinets all the way to the ceiling has long been a popular way to maximize storage, designers say they're increasingly moving away from prioritizing upper cabinets. While upper cabinets can make your kitchen appear top-heavy, removing them will imbue your space with a light, airy attitude. "This functional evolution shifts the 'heavy lifting' to the lower cabinets, freeing up upper cabinets to take on a simpler design—or be omitted entirely." Many designers are trading upper cabinets for full-length pantries, though Barber notes a vintage armoire can also work. "I don't think upper cabinets will ever be non-existent, but the style and placement of them are changing," she says.