Many small apartments in pre-war buildings are limited when it comes to footprint, but expansive when it comes to ceiling height. We're always on the lookout for ways to make better use of vertical space, and this kitchen comes as no exception...
The red-painted (or reddish natural wood?) cabinetry is what first caught our eye here. Then we noticed those upper upper cabinets. They're fitted with a metal rail that a wheeled ladder hooks to for easy access to the uppermost storage. When the ladder's not in use, a nifty metal rail on the wall keeps it handy.
(Image: Woman's Day)

Comments (6)
That's a very traditional detail.
My grandmother's house built in 1919 had cabinets like this, as did the first house my parent's bought (and built) in 1977.
Other than rentals which have usually gone cheap - It seems like a more recent thing where builders have replaced space efficiency with square footage and made no use of the space above the kitchen cabinets.
I'm looking for a ladder like this. Anyone?
Look for library ladders.
PS bepsf i have a crush on your posts.
niabonds - I posted one good source a while back - orders can be placed by contractors, designers or directly from homeowner: http://www.apartmenttherapy.com/ny/pillows-decorative-office-accessories/alaco-library-ladder-022575
My new 1914 apartment has super high ceilings and cabinets, but sadly, no ladder. I have to climb on the counter to put things in the top!
An ex-boyfriend of mine lived in a single family victorian built in 1898. The house featured secret stairways, servants quarters, and sky high ceilings. You could feel the history when walking inside. Such illustrious settings are not found in today's pre-fab homes.