The bottom of the bottom one should be 54" above the finished floor, just like regular cabinets. Any tall elements that you may have in the room will establish the height of the top one if the cabinets aren't to the ceiling. Then distribute them with even spacing every 12"-15".

This is an older pic but gives you some idea, there is art work over the sink now. My shelves start at 54" from floor as LWO states. The next is 11 1/2 up ( top of bottom shelf to bottom of next shelf ) and the next is 10 1/2 up. I have 10 1/2 ft ceilings. My other cabs are very tall so it is all proportional , as LWO , also states.

close up :

opposite wall...note very tall cabs...48" cabs

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if you need more measurements or pics let me know . c

18" just seems really low to me on open shelving. does anyone have experience shelves starting at 20-21" above counter?

I don't think there's one answer that fits all kitchens. You need to look at the elements in your kitchen that you want your shelves to line up with, like pps7's hood. And then ensure that things on them that you use all the time will be within reach. Function first but there's usually a way to give form to function that works beautifully in your space. You just might have to play around with it.

I agree with funkycamper - hood, windows, other wall elements may determine what shelf heights are pleasing to the eye. Also consider how you're going to clean the higher ones.

Each beams can be placed approximately 3 feet apart and and slabs could be placed each one feet above. You can also decor the interior with ornamental plants. I have attached the photo of my kitchen below or you could consider consulting custom shelving units nearby your area. We got out cabinets done through Space age closets .

Hi, may I know where you brought your shelves? ML