ᐅ How can I install Ikea Metod cabinets with low ceiling height?

I am planning to install Ikea Metod kitchen cabinets in my apartment but face the challenge of a very low ceiling height of only 220 cm (87 inches). Since the standard height of Metod cabinet carcasses is usually quite tall, I am wondering about practical solutions to fit the cabinets precisely without major structural changes. I am especially interested in tips for adjusting the cabinet height, possible compromises on the cabinet size, and different layout options that could make the best use of the available space. Has anyone had experience installing Metod cabinet modules with low ceiling heights, perhaps using custom modifications, shorter carcasses, or other tricks? Any ideas or solutions that help maximize storage without visually overwhelming the space are very welcome.

With a ceiling height of only 220 cm (87 inches), I recommend not building the cabinets all the way up to the ceiling. Instead, it's better to omit the top sections and use open shelves as a finishing touch. This keeps enough space and prevents the cabinets from appearing too bulky.

The standard height of Metod carcasses is usually 80 or 90 cm (31 or 35 inches) per cabinet. With a ceiling height of 220 cm (87 inches), you should either shorten the carcasses of the taller cabinets or choose a combination of taller and shorter units. The simplest option is to make the wall cabinets, for example, only 40 or 60 cm (16 or 24 inches) high, leaving space for a ceiling panel or a finishing trim. Shortening the carcasses generally requires a circular wall saw and some DIY skills. Alternatively, shelves can be left out and the fronts adjusted accordingly.

usbla schrieb:
The standard height of the Metod carcasses is usually 80 or 90 cm (31 or 35 inches) per cabinet.

Exactly, and that’s where the problem lies: Ikea offers limited height options and prefers to sell more units instead. If you only have a room height of 220 cm (87 inches), it becomes difficult to find the perfect top finish. Personally, I think it makes sense not to extend the cabinets all the way to the ceiling but to install some kind of trim or lighting strip instead. This creates atmosphere and is more practical than struggling with precise measurements.

Hey Pinnar, my recommendation is to plan the Metod cabinets at the bottom to make the best use of storage space and finish at the top with open shelves or a nice trim. If you really need full-height base cabinets, you can also halve the upper units or leave them out entirely. This way, the whole kitchen feels more spacious and less overwhelming – and hey, less work, more impact! 😉

If you want to adjust the cabinet height, you can shorten the metal sides of the carcasses using a jigsaw. You can also trim the back panel to the required size. However, the doors for Metod are only available in standard sizes, so you may need to have smaller doors custom-made or opt for shorter doors.