Yes, it's definitely possible to have crown molding on the ceiling in your kitchen and then proceed to hang cabinets with affixed crown molding. This design approach can add an elegant and cohesive look to your kitchen.
The steps you'll generally follow are as follows:
Install Crown Molding on the Ceiling: First, you'll need to install the crown molding on the ceiling. This step should be done before you hang the cabinets. Make sure the crown molding is securely fastened and level.
Install Kitchen Cabinets: Once the crown molding on the ceiling is in place, you can proceed with installing the kitchen cabinets. The crown molding on the cabinets should be of the same design and color as the crown molding on the ceiling for a uniform look. However, you mentioned that the cabinets with crown will be all one color, which implies that they might not be the same color as the crown molding on the ceiling. As long as the colors complement each other and fit well within your overall kitchen design, this can still look great.
Attach Crown Molding to the Top of Cabinets: After the cabinets are installed, you can affix crown molding to the top of the upper cabinets. This crown molding will serve as a continuation of the crown molding on the ceiling, creating a cohesive appearance.
Maintain Distance Between Ceiling Crown and Cabinet Crown: To ensure that the crown molding on the ceiling and the crown molding on the cabinets don't clash visually, it's a good idea to maintain a reasonable distance between them. You mentioned a distance of about 1-1.5 feet apart, which should work well aesthetically.
Finishing and Painting: Once the crown molding is installed on the cabinets, you'll want to make sure the joints are neatly caulked and any gaps are filled. After that, you can paint the crown molding in the desired color, ensuring it matches or complements the cabinets and the overall color scheme of your kitchen.
Overall, combining crown molding on the ceiling with crown molding on kitchen cabinets can create a beautiful and sophisticated look in your kitchen. Just be sure to plan and execute the installation carefully to achieve the best results. If you're unsure about any part of the process, it's always a good idea to consult with a professional carpenter or kitchen designer.