Freddie Prinze Jr. uses this intelligent kitchen storage hack – designers say it's a simple way to make use of all available wall space

A match made in '90s slasher heaven, Sarah Michelle Gellar and Freddie Prinze Jr. just celebrate their 22nd anniversary – and while we will always associate them with the dark coastal ambiance of I Know What You Did Last Summer, their current home embraces light colors and strategic storage solutions.

In a post shared to Prinze Jr.'s Instagram feed, we can see his and Gellar's modern kitchen featuring white painted cabinets, black countertops and backsplash, and metallic appliances.

However, the main draw is the use of dead space, with glass-fronted and opaque cabinets extending beyond eye level and introducing floor-to-ceiling kitchen storage. Taking advantage of vertical storage space is not only a smart and simple way to increase tidiness in rooms like the kitchen, as well as making use of all available wall areas, as designers explain.

'One of the primary benefits of tall, vertical cabinets is their ability to utilize otherwise wasted vertical space,' says Westchester-based designer Nina Lichtenstein. 'In many kitchens, the area above lower cabinets and countertops often remains underutilized. By extending cabinets up to the ceiling, you can take full advantage of this space, providing additional storage without sacrificing floor space.'

Organization is key when it comes to utilizing vertical storage space. While extra space is provided, it is up to us to delegate each unit by category so that the inside of the cabinets looks as neat as the outside.

'With the increased storage capacity of vertical cabinets, organizing your kitchen becomes a breeze,' Lichtenstein explains. 'You can designate specific areas for different types of items, making it easier to find what you need when you need it. For instance, you can store all your baking supplies in one section, cooking utensils in another, and cleaning supplies in yet another. This level of organization can significantly streamline your kitchen workflow.'

Lichtenstein continues, 'Tall cabinets offer significantly more storage than standard-sized cabinets. This additional space is ideal for storing items that are not used daily, such as seasonal cookware, bulk pantry items, and seldom-used appliances. By keeping these items out of the way, you can maintain a clutter-free kitchen and ensure that your everyday essentials are easily accessible.'

Additionally, cabinets that are close to the ceiling create a point of visual interest in the kitchen – yet another reason to love this home improvement strategy.

'Tall cabinets create a sleek, cohesive look in the kitchen,' Lichtenstein states. 'Their continuous lines draw the eye upward, making the space appear larger and more open. Additionally, they can be customized to match any kitchen style, from modern and minimalist to traditional and rustic. Whether you opt for glass-fronted doors to display your finest china or solid doors for a clean, uniform appearance, tall cabinets can enhance the overall aesthetic of your kitchen.'

When considering what to put in high kitchen cabinets, we recommend organizing the innards of vertical cabinets by category, as well as by location. For example, placing spices and dry goods in a cabinet space near the fridge, so that cooking can be a seamless process. Investing in jars and containers will also make organizing and maintaining cleanliness much easier.