You may be right about adding that tall of a bulkhead feeling top heavy. What about adding a simple molding to the top and bottom of the wall cabinets? Then add back lighting and under cabinet lighting?

I don't think it will go well with the flat style of cabinet you have. How about some pops of color with great art-work from the 50's, or some vintage advertisement signs above the cabinets?

You're blessed to have tall ceilings...trim at top of cabinets makes a big difference...also consider ceiling and crown molding so it doesn't feel like a "box". Unless you enjoy dusting, I'd avoid putting anything up there.

Here are my cabinets with a cabinet bulk head. I would do anymore than this so maybe add another set of cabinets on top with trim to the ceiling.

I am sure you have looked at photos of stacked cabinets?

http://houzz.com/photos/1631350

Yes. It should be

I like the stacked cabs that Jenak posted above. I would add the cabs in a different color, maybe white?

If you are able to add another set of cabinets, go for it! That way you'll have more storage space and height will add a luxury feel to your kitchen.

If you have any questions, come join us for breakfast at our showroom and check out our free kitchen session every 2nd Saturday of the month: http://leichtnewyork.com/how-much-will-your-kitchen-cost-class-registration

Best of luck!

The bulkhead would be so big as to be overpowering. I would add another bank of cabinets. But consider the door styles. If the new cabinets are all glazed as the current are, it might be a bit too china gift shop looking (I can imagine royal Dolton figurines in endless quantity...) . Solid doors, on the other hand, might be a bit daunting (as the bulkheads would be). I personally would glaze the upper row and then (get ready) remove doors from much of the existing bank. It would break it up, and go very well with the cottage vibe given by the current ceiling and paint finish on the cabinets.