Ultimate Guide Of Upstands: An Extension Of The Kitchen[Updated 2024]

Upstands are a terrific way to extend your home and add living space without spending much money. They also have several other benefits besides adding space, such as reducing noise, increasing natural light, and creating a more usable layout. 

Though extensions might seem intimidating, they aren’t as difficult as you think and get done by anyone with a small budget and moderate carpentry skills. 

Upstands are essentially an extension of your kitchen that takes advantage of unused space, increases storage, and exposes ventilation systems. In addition, it provides extra cabinets, countertop space, and other features. 

They get added in one spot or several smaller rooms so long as there is at least 10 inches of clearance between each room.

What are upstands?

Upstands are one of the most cost-effective ways to add living space to your home. Essentially, they extend a kitchen already in your home into different areas. They’re also known as island extensions, kitchen extensions, and under-counter extensions. 

You can create upstands in any one room or many smaller spaces throughout your house if there are at least 10 inches of clearance between each room. You can place them on lower floors, basements, or upstairs. 

Make sure there is room for the new extension and that it doesn’t block exits or other features like windows, doors, vents, light fixtures, or plumbing. The benefits of adding upstands include increased storage space and an organized layout with easier access to all parts of the kitchen. 

They also increase natural light and reduce noise because there’s less surface area below you when standing in front of a countertop built into an extension. 

In addition, upstands draw heat up from the floor instead of down, which means they help save energy and money in the long run.

What is the use of upstand?

Upstands are a great way to expand your kitchen without breaking the bank. They also offer other benefits, such as increased natural light and noise reduction. 

Upstands can be added in one spot or several smaller rooms so long as there is at least 10 inches of clearance between each room. 

In addition, they’re easy to install. A kitchen extension is a terrific way to add space without spending too much money.

Additionally, they have many other benefits besides adding space, such as reducing noise, increasing natural light, and creating a more usable layout. 

Though extensions might seem intimidating, they aren’t as difficult as you think and get done by anyone with a small budget and moderate carpentry skills. 

Finally, upstands are excellent for unused space that creates storage and cabinet space while also expanding ventilation systems.

The material used to create an upstand

Different materials get used to create an upstand. They get made from wood, MDF, or plywood, the two most common being pine and oak. These upstands are highly customizable and can be customized to suit your needs by adding windows, cupboards, doors, and more. 

Another option for an upstand is to use the fiber-cement board. It’s a durable material that features a hard surface on one side and a soft texture on the other. For example, you could use it as a countertop or cover a built-in bookshelf or TV cabinet. 

This type of upstand is lightweight but strong and offers many options for customization. You can also paint or dye it according to your preference so that it matches other elements in your home decor.

Marble Upstands:

Marble upstands offer timeless elegance and luxury. Crafted from natural marble, they exude sophistication and charm. Their unique veining patterns add character to any space, making them popular for upscale kitchens and bathrooms. 

Marble upstands require sealing to protect against stains and etching, but with proper maintenance, they can last a lifetime, aging gracefully and enhancing the beauty of the surrounding decor.

Granite Upstands:

Granite upstands boast durability and natural beauty. Formed from igneous rock, each granite upstand is a unique masterpiece of swirling patterns and rich colors. 

Renowned for their strength and resistance to heat and scratches, granite upstands are ideal for high-traffic areas like kitchen countertops. They retain their luster and elegance with minimal maintenance, becoming a focal point in any design scheme.

Quartz Upstands:

Quartz upstands combine beauty with durability. Engineered from natural quartz crystals and resins, they offer various colors and patterns to suit any aesthetic. Unlike natural stone, quartz upstands are non-porous and resistant to stains, making them easy to clean and maintain. 

Their uniform appearance and seamless integration make them versatile for modern kitchens and bathrooms. With superior strength and longevity, quartz upstands provide a luxurious yet practical solution for any space.

Dekton Upstands:

Dekton upstands and redefines durability and innovation. Composed of a sophisticated blend of raw materials, including glass, porcelain, and quartz, Dekton upstands offer unmatched strength and resistance to scratches, heat, and UV rays. 

Their ultra-compact structure makes them ideal for indoor and outdoor applications, from kitchen countertops to facades. With various finishes and colors inspired by natural stone and industrial materials, Dekton upstands offer endless design possibilities while requiring minimal maintenance.

Silestone Upstands:

Silestone upstands epitomize style and versatility. Made from quartz and other raw materials, Silestone upstands offer various colors, patterns, and finishes to suit any design aesthetic. Their non-porous surface is highly resistant to stains, scratches, and impact, making them perfect for busy kitchens and bathrooms. 

With built-in antimicrobial protection, Silestone upstands provide a hygienic solution for food preparation areas. Easy to clean and maintain, they retain their beauty and functionality for years to come, enhancing the overall appeal of any space.

Porcelain Upstands:

Porcelain upstands blend beauty with practicality. Crafted from high-quality clay and minerals, porcelain upstands offer a durable and versatile solution for various applications. Available in a wide range of colors, textures, and patterns, they can mimic the look of natural stone, wood, or concrete, adding visual interest to any space. 

Porcelain upstands resist stains, scratches, and heat, making them ideal for residential and commercial settings. With their low maintenance requirements and long-lasting durability, porcelain upstands provide a timeless and elegant finish to any design project.

Difference between an upstand and a splashback

Splashbacks are an upstand intended to get installed in kitchens, bathrooms, and laundry rooms. They get made up of one or more layers of glass with a layer of waterproof material. 

Splashbacks offer the same benefits as an upstand. However, They can’t get used to appliances like microwaves or ovens because they can’t come in contact with the cooking surface.

Upstand design options

Upstands can come in many shapes and sizes, with various materials. They get made of wood, metal, plastic, or other materials. Some upstands get designed to look like traditional cabinetry, while others are more industrial and have a sharp-edged appearance.

Moreover, The design of your upstand depends on your tastes and needs. For example, you might want to choose an upstand with a more modern design to have an eye-catching addition to your home. 

Alternatively, you could choose one with a more traditional character because it will blend into the rest of your home without drawing much attention to itself.

Different types of upstands

Upstands come in many different types. Some extensions are a single piece of wood, while others get made of metal or plastic. There is also the choice to utilize a combination of upstands and walls. 

The construction materials will depend on what is available and what you want to accomplish with your extension. There are several other types of upstands, such as wall cabinets, countertops, and beadboard. 

For example, wall cabinets can get placed near the floor and pull-out cabinet doors that reveal additional storage space. A beadboard is hardboard with decorative strips along its edge that provide texture and style to your kitchen.

Benefits of  upstand in your kitchen

There are many benefits to using an upstand in your kitchen. They can add space, create a more usable layout, and reduce noise. In addition, upstands create more usable kitchen space without burning a hole in your wallet. 

The typical size of an upstand is approximately 3 feet by 5 feet, and they range in price from $1100-$1400 depending on the style and materials used. 

Upstands also have the potential to increase natural light levels, provide extra cabinet storage, expose ventilation systems and create a new cabinet system that extends into the floor.

Great extension to your kitchen

Upstands are a great way to extend your kitchen. They help add extra storage spaces, create more functional layouts, and increase natural light. 

They can reduce noise in the home by reducing it to the main room. In addition, they don’t require expensive materials like cabinets. 

Finally, when installed, they need minimal work from the average DIYer.

The five best upstand ideas for your kitchen

When the time comes to renovate your kitchen, you have so many options. The first thing you should do is think about the layout. 

• Do you need a standard countertop space for prep activities? 
• Do you plan to leave room for a bigger appliance down the road? 
• Do you have children at home or guests coming over often?

Once you narrow down your needs and figure out what kind of kitchen space you’ll need, start thinking about the design. From classic looks to more modern appliances, there are many upstanding ideas for sprucing up your kitchen. 

These five tips and tricks will help transform any basic kitchen into a dream home.

Clever storage solutions to maximize your space with upstands

Upstands can make the storage space in your kitchen more functional and visually appealing. They can be used as a backsplash or an accent wall, making it easy to hide unsightly appliances. 

If you’re interested in using them behind your stove, try using upstands as a ledge that you can pull out when needed. It will allow you to utilize countertop space creatively and make the most of your small kitchen. 

Another fun idea is to use upstands as a shelf on the wall of your oven. It will give you additional storage space to place cookbooks and other items that may otherwise be difficult to reach. 

Another neat idea is storing pots directly on the upstands, so they are within arm’s reach and less likely to tip over. For this design, remove the legs from the banks and keep them on the upstands before adding them back onto their original pedestals once cooked. 

This final design is for those who don’t have counters but still want to maximize their space with upstands. For example, if you only have an island or between two walls. 

As long as there’s no window above these areas, they should be sufficient for storage. These are perfect for organizing spices or anything else that might usually clutter a sink or cabinet.

Innovative ideas for creating a breakfast bar with upstands

A breakfast bar is a great way to do it if you want to add a little more space to your kitchen. If you don’t have the budget for an entire island, try using some upstands for a breakfast bar. 

All you need are upstands and a countertop, and there you go. It is one of those projects that will give your kitchen new life and make eating breakfast in the morning so much easier.

Clever ways to hide your kitchen appliances with upstands

You need all the counter space you can get when cooking in your kitchen. Sometimes, though, people aren’t too happy about the appliances taking up so much space. So there are a few clever ways to put upstands around your kitchen appliances to make them look less unsightly and more streamlined. 

One great way to hide your equipment is with a floating shelf. It goes by many names, such as a floating bar or island. Some people like this idea because it allows them to have counter space on both sides of their kitchen island. 

Another option is using an ottoman instead of an upstand. This method allows for a hybrid of functionality and aesthetics in the same piece of furniture. You can set this ottoman next to your sink or at the end of your bed to provide extra storage space while still looking stylish. 

The final idea we want to share is using a stool instead of an upstand or ottoman. This option makes sense if you don’t have enough room on either side of your stove or sink for a piece of furniture to get placed in the middle. 

Just make sure that the stool isn’t too tall so that it doesn’t block off any light from entering your room. If there aren’t enough stools for you, consider getting creative with what materials you already have on hand. There are countless ways that you.

Stylish ideas for decorating your kitchen with upstands

One of the best ways to add some life to your kitchen is with upstands. Upstands are a great way to add style, color, and depth to any space. 

You can choose from the following options.

• Placement: Wall-mounting, Countertop Standing Options
• Style: Antique, Industrial, Modern, Etc.
• Colors: Black, White, Gray, And More
• Materials: Wood Or Metal

Interesting ways to add personality to your kitchen with upstands

Upstands are a simple way to add personality and make your kitchen more inviting. Instead of having the same dull countertops, you can customize your kitchen with upstands on the walls and make them a focal point. 

Upstands are a great option if you’re looking for something that will give your kitchen some character. It’s easy to change up the visual of your kitchen without doing any major renovations or spending too much money. 

Take these five tips and tricks with you as you start planning how to revamp your space around your new appliances.

Keep your kitchen clean and organized with upstands.

Upstands may be your solution if you’re looking for a way to keep your kitchen clean and organized. Upstands are a type of kitchen cabinet that goes around the perimeter of your kitchen counters. 

They can also help keep your counters clean by preventing food and liquid from spilling. Upstands can also help to organize your kitchen by providing a place to store pots and pans, utensils, and other cooking supplies.

If you’re considering adding upstands to your kitchen, you should keep a few things in mind. 

First, ensure that your upstands are the same height as your countertops. If they’re not, you’ll end up with a noticeable gap between them. 

Second, choose a material that is easy to clean and will not show dirt or food stains.

Benefits of installing worktop upstands in your kitchen:

Hides Imperfections:

Worktop upstands cleverly conceal imperfections along the edges of your kitchen counters, providing a seamless and polished appearance. Whether it’s uneven cuts or minor damages, these upstands offer a sleek solution, ensuring your kitchen maintains its aesthetic appeal effortlessly.

Adds Style:

Incorporating worktop upstands into your kitchen design introduces a touch of sophistication and continuity. They seamlessly blend with your countertops, elevating the overall look of your kitchen space. With various materials, colors, and textures available, you can effortlessly match your upstands to complement your existing decor or create a striking contrast for added visual interest.

Easy to Clean:

Worktop upstands simplify your cleaning routine by protecting against spills, splatters, and grime. Their smooth surfaces facilitate quick and hassle-free maintenance, requiring only a wipe-down with a damp cloth or mild cleanser to keep them looking pristine. Say goodbye to tedious scrubbing sessions and hello to more time enjoying your kitchen.

Affordable:

Investing in worktop upstands is a cost-effective way to enhance the appearance and functionality of your kitchen without breaking the bank. Compared to full-height backsplashes or extensive renovations, upstands offer a budget-friendly alternative that still delivers significant aesthetic and practical benefits, making them a smart choice for homeowners seeking value.

Protects Walls:

Worktop upstands serve as a protective barrier for your kitchen walls, shielding them from water damage, heat exposure, and stains. By preventing moisture and food particles from seeping into crevices, these upstands help preserve the integrity of your walls, reducing the risk of mold growth, discoloration, and deterioration over time.

Improves Hygiene:

Maintaining a hygienic kitchen environment is effortless with worktop upstands, which prevent bacteria and germs from accumulating in hard-to-reach areas. Their seamless integration with countertops minimizes gaps where dirt and grime accumulate, promoting cleaner surfaces and healthier food preparation practices for you and your family. Improved hygiene brings greater peace of mind, knowing your kitchen is a safe and sanitary space for culinary creativity.

Tips for keeping your kitchen clean and organized with upstands

• Utilize shelving to keep your dishes and appliances in order. For example, instead of stacking your dishware on the counter, use a few shelves to store your pots and pans neatly. It will keep them out of the way so you can easily find what you need when cooking up a storm. You could even use these shelves to store utensils, sponges, or anything else that gets used often in the kitchen. 

• Keep a small basket on each countertop for quick access. If you’re using a smaller cooktop or appliance, this is great for keeping it clean and tidy. In addition, a small basket keeps your counters clear so you can still have space to prepare meals. 

• Use upstands as extra storage space Kitchen cabinets are always overflowing with miscellaneous items from cups, blankets, toothbrushes, and more. If you want more storage space for those items without building new cabinets, consider finding an upstand to hold extra supplies.

FAQs

Why choose Upstands for your kitchen?

Upstands are an efficient and affordable way to add living space without spending much money. They can also provide other benefits like increasing natural light and ventilation and reducing noise. 

Another reason for choosing Upstands is that they are easy to install. Since the average person only needs moderate carpentry skills, installing them in one spot or multiple smaller rooms doesn’t take much time or effort. 

However, They require at least 10 inches of clearance between each room. So long as you have enough space, adding an Upstand is possible and a great investment for your home.

How to install an upstand in your kitchen?

The first step is to measure the space to which you want to add an upstand. It should be about 6 feet wide and 3 feet high if you’re doing a single room. 

If you’re adding an upstand to several rooms, it’s best to use a 12-inch thick wall to stabilize the whole structure.

Are kitchen upstands a good idea?

Kitchen upstands are indeed a practical addition to any kitchen. They protect your walls from water splashes, grease, and stains, thus reducing maintenance. Moreover, they create a seamless transition between the countertop and the wall, enhancing the overall aesthetics of the kitchen. 

Upstands can complement any kitchen style with various materials and designs available while providing a functional purpose. Their durability and ease of cleaning make them a smart investment, ensuring your kitchen remains stylish and hygienic for years.

What is the point of an upstand?

The primary purpose of an upstand in a kitchen is to act as a barrier between the countertop and the wall. It prevents water, food splatters, and other kitchen messes from seeping into the crevices, protecting the wall from damage and making cleaning easier. 

Upstands also contribute to the kitchen’s visual appeal by providing a finished look to the countertop edges, creating a cohesive and polished appearance. They offer a practical solution for hiding gaps or unevenness between the countertop and the wall, ensuring a seamless and professional finish.

What is the difference between splashback and upstand?

While both serve similar purposes in a kitchen, there are distinct differences between splashbacks and upstands. Splashbacks are typically larger panels installed behind the hob or sink to protect the wall from splashes, stains, and heat damage. They can be made of various materials, such as glass, tile, or stainless steel, often covering a significant portion of the wall. 

On the other hand, upstands are smaller strips of material installed along the edge of the countertop, rising vertically to meet the wall. They protect the immediate area where the countertop meets the wall and offer a more subtle aesthetic touch than splashbacks.

Do you put splashback on top of the upstand?

Generally, splashbacks are installed behind the upstand rather than on top of it. This arrangement ensures the wall is fully protected from splashes and spills, as the splashback covers a larger surface area than the upstand alone. 

Placing the splashback behind the upstand also allows for easier cleaning and maintenance, as there are no gaps or edges where dirt or moisture can accumulate. 

However, the kitchen’s design and layout, as well as personal preference, may influence the installation method. In some cases, splashbacks and upstands may be integrated or installed differently.

What is the typical thickness of a worktop upstand?

The typical thickness of a worktop upstand can vary depending on the material used and personal preference. However, most upstands range from 20mm to 50mm in thickness. Thinner upstands provide a sleek and minimalist look, blending seamlessly with modern kitchen designs. 

On the other hand, thicker upstands offer a more substantial appearance and can create a bold statement in the kitchen. The choice of thickness should consider both aesthetic preferences and practical considerations, such as the height of the countertop and the desired level of protection for the wall.

What are some kitchen upstand ideas?

Numerous creative ideas exist for incorporating upstands into your kitchen design, adding functionality and style to the space. For a contemporary look, consider using sleek and seamless materials such as stainless steel or quartz for the upstands, complementing modern countertops with clean lines. 

Alternatively, for a more traditional or rustic vibe, natural stones such as marble or granite can add warmth and character to the kitchen while providing durable wall protection. 

Experimenting with different textures, colors, and patterns can also lend a unique and personalized touch to your kitchen upstands, allowing you to express your style and create a space that reflects your personality.

Are worktop upstands necessary?

Worktop upstands serve both functional and aesthetic purposes. They provide a barrier against spills and splashes, preventing water damage to walls and cabinets. 

Additionally, they contribute to a seamless and polished look in kitchen design, hiding the gaps between the worktop and the wall. 

While not strictly necessary, upstands offer practical benefits and enhance the kitchen’s overall appearance, making them a valuable addition to consider.

How do worktop upstands compare to splashbacks?

Worktop upstands and splashbacks protect kitchen walls from water damage and stains. However, they differ in their coverage and installation. Upstands are smaller in height, typically extending only a few inches above the worktop, while splashbacks cover a larger area, reaching from the worktop to the upper cabinets or ceiling. 

Splashbacks provide more extensive protection but may require professional installation. Upstands offers a simpler and more cost-effective solution, particularly for those looking to enhance aesthetics without extensive renovation.

Can upstands be used with any type of worktop material?

Upstands are versatile and can be used with various worktop materials, including granite, marble, quartz, laminate, and wood. They are typically installed along the edge of the worktop where it meets the wall, regardless of the material. 

However, the choice of upstand material should complement the worktop to ensure a cohesive and visually appealing kitchen design. For instance, a sleek quartz worktop may pair well with a matching quartz upstand, while a coordinating timber upstand could complement a wooden worktop.

Where can I find high-quality worktop upstands in black or white?

High-quality worktop upstands in black or white can be found at specialty kitchen retailers, home improvement stores, and online suppliers. 

Look for reputable brands known for their durable materials and precise craftsmanship to ensure the longevity and aesthetic appeal of the upstands. 

Additionally, consider visiting kitchen showrooms to view samples and consult with experts who can provide recommendations based on your specific needs and preferences. 

Online marketplaces offer a wide selection of upstands in various colors and finishes, allowing you to compare options and find the perfect match for your kitchen design.

Final words

Upstands are ideal for the kitchen because they are both functional and beautiful. Upstands are practical, too. They help to create an air of space in tight spaces while also providing a place to store cookware and other essentials. 

These upstands also act as a home base for organizing your kitchen. In addition, they provide a place where you can make notes and keep up-to-date with the latest food trends. 

In addition, upstands are durable. They’re incredibly easy to clean and maintain, which makes them perfect for busy families with kids who love to get messy in the kitchen. 

Finally, upstands come in various finishes, so you can choose one that fits your style without compromising functionality or beauty.