Cabinet Installations That Maximize Space in Olympia Kitchens

In many Olympia homes, especially older ones, kitchen space is tight—but that doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice storage or style. The right cabinet installation can completely transform how your kitchen looks, feels, and functions. Whether you're remodeling your kitchen or building new, the key to success is smart cabinet design tailored to your space.

At Mountain Peak Construction, we specialize in cabinet installation in Olympia that blends function with custom craftsmanship. Here’s our guide to maximizing storage in your kitchen—without compromising on aesthetics.

1. Use Ceiling-Height Cabinets

Why it works:Most builder-grade cabinets stop a foot or more short of the ceiling, wasting valuable vertical space. Installing cabinets that go all the way up adds a full additional tier of storage for less-used items like holiday platters, stockpots, or bulk goods.

Pro Tip:Finish off the top with crown molding for a clean, custom look—something our team does often for kitchen remodels in Olympia.

2. Choose Deep Drawers Over Lower Cabinets

Why it works:Deep base drawers are easier to access than lower shelves behind doors. They also maximize usable space for heavy pots, pans, and small appliances.

Bonus tip:We love adding soft-close glides and full-extension drawers so you can see everything at once—no more digging in dark corners.

3. Add Pull-Out Organizers

Why it works:Pull-out systems, like spice racks, pantry trays, trash bins, and tray dividers, help you use every inch of space efficiently. These are especially helpful in narrow gaps or awkward corners.

Olympia homeowner favorite:Pull-out corner units (“magic corners”) eliminate wasted space in those deep, hard-to-reach cabinet corners common in Lacey and Tumwater homes.

4. Include a Pantry Cabinet or Pull-Out Pantry

Why it works:If your kitchen lacks a walk-in pantry, a tall cabinet with pull-out shelving can offer the same function in less space. You can store dry goods, small appliances, and snacks in a tidy, hidden way.

Design tip:Consider a glass door on part of your pantry cabinet to add visual interest and break up solid cabinetry.

5. Don’t Forget the Toe-Kick Drawers

Why it works:That 4” strip under your base cabinets? It’s valuable real estate. Toe-kick drawers are perfect for storing baking sheets, cutting boards, or seasonal items.

Local remodeling tip:We often recommend toe-kick drawers in smaller homes around Olympia and Tumwater where storage space is at a premium.

6. Customize for Your Lifestyle

During our design phase, we always ask about how you cook, what you store, and what’s frustrating about your current setup. Whether you're a coffee lover needing a dedicated beverage station or a baker who wants vertical sheet pan storage—we’ll design your cabinets around your real life.

And if you’re updating your flooring or siding at the same time, we can coordinate colors, finishes, and transitions so your entire remodel feels cohesive.

Olympia Climate Tip: Material Matters

Humidity and seasonal temperature swings in Western Washington can impact cabinet longevity. That’s why we recommend:

• Plywood construction over particle board for durability

• Pre-finished surfaces that resist warping and moisture

• Soft-close hardware that holds up in fluctuating conditions

These are especially important for kitchens that get lots of use or have poor ventilation.

Real Olympia Remodel: Before & After

One of our recent clients in West Olympia had an outdated galley kitchen with limited storage and dark finishes. We installed:

• Full-height white shaker cabinets

• Pull-out pantry beside the fridge

• Deep drawers for pots and pans

• Floating shelves above the sink

• New cabinet hardware in brushed brass

The result? A light-filled, functional kitchen that felt twice as large—with room for everything.

Cabinet Installation FAQ

How long does cabinet installation take?Most cabinet installs take 2–4 days depending on kitchen size and complexity.

Do you install custom and stock cabinets?Yes! We work with both custom shops and wholesale suppliers to get you the best fit and price.

Can I just replace cabinets without remodeling the whole kitchen?Absolutely. We offer cabinet-only upgrades as well as full kitchen remodels.

Can you help me pick finishes?Yes! Our in-house designer can show you samples and mockups to help you choose colors, door styles, and layout options that match your home.

Let’s Design the Perfect Cabinet Layout

At Mountain Peak Construction, we believe your kitchen should work as hard as you do. We offer expert cabinet installation throughout Olympia, Lacey, and Tumwater—always built with quality, function, and style in mind.