Replace soffits with shelving?

Vijay asks:

Hi Jake, this is a fantastic blog! So we have soffits in our kitchen and we want to get rid of them. From what I remember looking in our attic above them, there is nothing there, but we don't want to buy all new cabinets for the top so we were thinking of just cutting out the dry wall soffits and making shelves there. 

Do you see this done and does it look "normal." Also would it be easy/practical to put other cabinets (smaller ones) up there or something like a wine rack? Thank you so much!!

Jake's answer:

Vijay,

If your ceiling height is 8’, you will only have 1’ of opened space above the cabinets.  This is not enough room to add any shelving.  Typically, I see people put knick knacks or collectibles above the cabinets.  Be prepared to do some dusting as this area tends to collect quite a lot of dust.

You could add some crown mold on top of the cabinets to “dress” them up a bit. 

I’m glad you enjoy the blog.