I think it's more practical to use deep upper shelves for large items (roasting pans, large mixing bowls, etc) that won't get lost in the back.

I do have a set of upper pull-outs, over the fridge. It's essentially a drawer on its side. We use them for bulky items that aren't heavy - cereal, paper towels, a large stock pot.

Ooh, Interesting!

I find them very useful. Have done that outside of the kitchen and it makes accessing things easier, imo. The sides are not as high as above. I think the cabinets are about 22" deep. Would be very difficult and limit storage without them.

I haven't done it yet, but I am planning to put rollout trays (really Ikea shallow drawers) in the upper shelves of my 24" deep pantry and over the frig cabs. That way I can store and access stuff using a stepstool instead of a ladder!

Having just had my drawers all removed, I can see the benefit of having those tall sides though. I like that idea in such a hard-to-access space.

Thanks all for your thoughts and Annkh :-) for the picture That's inspiration for my above the refrigerator space. The high back support to prevent things falling out is a great idea.

For the other upper cabinets, I think I'll go for height adjustable roll out trays with 1.5" on the sides and 5" at the back. The door will open sideways or upwards. Yes, it is a two motion process, but that way I can look at whats inside standing in front of the cabinet rather than sideways.