Transform your kitchen’s unused vertical space by adding decorative items or functional storage above cabinets. This simple design tweak adds personality and can make your kitchen feel more complete and stylish, even on a budget.
Ever looked up at the empty space above your kitchen cabinets and wondered what to do with it? You’re not alone! This often-overlooked area can be a magnet for dust bunnies and a blank canvas begging for some attention. It’s a common kitchen dilemma, but don’t worry! We’re here to help you turn that forgotten zone into something beautiful and functional. Get ready to discover easy, stylish ways to decorate the space above your kitchen cabinets, making your kitchen feel more polished and personal.
Why Decorate Above Kitchen Cabinets?
The area above kitchen cabinets is often an afterthought in kitchen design, but it offers a fantastic opportunity to enhance both the aesthetics and functionality of your kitchen. Think of it as prime real estate for adding personality, visual interest, or even much-needed storage.
Adding Style and Personality
This vertical space is a perfect spot to inject your personal style into the kitchen. Whether you love a modern, farmhouse, or eclectic look, the right decor can tie the whole room together. It’s like the finishing touch on a beautifully presented meal!
Maximizing Space
For kitchens that feel a bit cramped, this area can be a clever place to store less frequently used items. Think decorative serving platters, seasonal dishes, or even cookbooks.
Creating a Finished Look
An empty space above cabinets can make a kitchen feel unfinished, like a room that’s still waiting for its final touches. Decorating this area creates a sense of completeness and draws the eye upwards, making the kitchen feel larger and more cohesive.
Boosting Home Value
A well-designed and thoughtfully decorated kitchen can increase your home’s appeal and value. Even small improvements like styling the cabinet tops can contribute to a more attractive and updated feel.
Before You Decorate: Key Considerations
Before you start gathering decorative items, it’s wise to take a moment to consider a few practical aspects. This will help you choose the best approach for your kitchen and avoid potential headaches down the line.
Accessibility
How easy is it for you to reach this space? If you plan to store items there or change the decor frequently, consider if you’ll need a step stool. For higher ceilings, think about items that won’t require frequent dusting or repositioning.
Dust and Cleaning
This is a prime spot for dust accumulation. Opt for items that are easy to wipe down or consider closed storage solutions if dust is a major concern. Some homeowners opt for open shelving and then use a long-handled duster or a small vacuum attachment for cleaning.
Lighting
Does the space get natural light? You might consider items that catch the light, like glass or metallic pieces. Alternatively, you could add subtle LED strip lighting to highlight your decor, especially in the evenings.
Cabinet Style and Height
The style and height of your cabinets will influence what looks best. Taller cabinets with more space offer more decorating possibilities than shorter ones. The color and style of your cabinets will also play a role in choosing complementary decor.
Overall Kitchen Style
Ensure your decor choices align with your kitchen’s existing style. Are you going for a minimalist look, a cozy farmhouse vibe, or something more eclectic? Consistency is key to a well-designed space.
How to Decorate Space Above Kitchen Cabinets: Step-by-Step
Let’s get decorating! Follow these simple steps to transform that empty space into something special.
Step 1: Assess Your Space and Style
Take a good look at the area above your cabinets. Measure the depth and width. Consider the overall style of your kitchen. Are you aiming for a clean, minimalist look, or do you prefer a more collected, cozy feel?
Measure: Use a tape measure to get accurate dimensions of the space.
Consider Height: Note how high the cabinets are from the countertop.
Kitchen Style: Think about your current kitchen’s color palette, materials, and overall theme.
Step 2: Choose Your Decorating Approach
There are several popular ways to tackle this space. Decide which best suits your needs and preferences.
Open Display: Using decorative items that reflect your personality.
Functional Storage: Utilizing baskets, bins, or canisters for practical storage.
Plant Life: Adding greenery for a natural, fresh touch.
Lighting Elements: Incorporating subtle lighting to create ambiance.
Art or Wall Hangings: Using lightweight art or signs.
Step 3: Select Your Decor Items
Now for the fun part! Based on your chosen approach, start selecting items.
For Open Display:
Vases
Decorative bowls or platters
Ceramic pieces
Small sculptures
Framed photos (consider durability against potential grease splatter)
For Functional Storage:
Woven baskets
Stylish canisters (for less-used dry goods like flour or sugar)
Decorative boxes
Enamelware pitchers
For Plant Life:
Artificial plants (low maintenance)
Trailing plants like Pothos or Spider Plants (if you have enough light and can water them)
For Lighting:
LED strip lights (battery-operated or plug-in)
Small battery-operated puck lights
For Art:
Lightweight metal signs
Small, framed prints (behind other items for depth)
Step 4: Arrange Your Items Thoughtfully
Don’t just plop things up there! Think about composition and balance.
Vary Heights and Textures: Mix tall and short items, smooth and textured pieces.
Create Focal Points: Use a larger or more striking item as a centerpiece.
Group Items: Arrange in odd numbers (groups of three or five) for a more appealing look.
Consider Depth: Place taller items in the back and shorter ones in front.
Don’t Overcrowd: Less can be more. Avoid making the space look cluttered.
Step 5: Install and Admire!
Carefully place your chosen items. If you’re using lighting, install it according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Step back and enjoy your newly decorated space!
Creative Decorating Ideas for Above Kitchen Cabinets
Let’s dive into some popular and effective ways to style this often-empty space.
1. The Collected Look: Displaying Decorative Pieces
This is a fantastic way to showcase your personality and add visual interest. Think of it as a curated gallery in your kitchen.
What to use:
Ceramics: Vases, decorative bowls, unique mugs, or artisanal pottery.
Glassware: Colored glass bottles, antique-style jars, or elegant decanters.
Artwork: Small, lightweight framed prints, metal art, or decorative signs.
Sentimental Items: A favorite souvenir, a family heirloom piece, or a cherished photo frame.
Tips for success:
Vary heights and shapes: Combine tall vases with shorter bowls for dynamic appeal.
Stick to a color palette: Choose items that complement your kitchen’s colors for a cohesive look.
Don’t overdo it: A few well-chosen pieces are more impactful than a cluttered arrangement.
Consider ease of cleaning: Opt for items that can be easily wiped down.
2. Functional Elegance: Smart Storage Solutions
If your kitchen is short on storage, this space can be a lifesaver. The trick is to choose storage items that are as stylish as they are practical.
What to use:
Baskets: Woven seagrass, rattan, or metal baskets are perfect for corralling items.
Canisters: Attractive ceramic or glass canisters for seldom-used dry goods like specialty flours, sugars, or decorative cookie jars.
Decorative Boxes: For stowing away smaller items like extra tea bags, specialty spices, or even cleaning supplies.
Enamelware: Vintage-style pitchers or watering cans can hold utensils or even serve as decorative elements themselves.
Tips for success:
Group similar items: Use baskets to hold a collection of tea towels or oven mitts.
Label if necessary: For opaque containers, consider discreet labels for easy identification.
Choose sturdy items: Ensure whatever you store is not too heavy for the cabinet tops.
3. Bringing Nature Indoors: Plants and Greenery
Adding plants can instantly liven up your kitchen, bringing a touch of nature and freshness.
What to use:
Artificial Plants: A great low-maintenance option. Choose realistic-looking faux plants like snake plants, ZZ plants, or small trees.
Trailing Plants: If you have good natural light and are willing to water, plants like Pothos, Spider Plants, or English Ivy can cascade beautifully.
Herbs: While not ideal for the very top (due to light needs), a small decorative herb planter on a nearby shelf can add greenery and fragrance.
Tips for success:
Consider light: Natural light is crucial for real plants. If your space is dark, opt for artificial.
Watering access: If using real plants, ensure you can reach them to water without a major hassle.
Choose attractive pots: The pot is part of the decor, so select one that matches your kitchen style.
4. Illuminating Your Space: Adding Ambient Lighting
Subtle lighting can transform the mood of your kitchen, especially in the evening.
What to use:
LED Strip Lights: These are incredibly versatile. You can get battery-operated ones or plug-in options. They can be placed along the front edge of the cabinet tops to cast a soft glow downwards or upwards.
Puck Lights: Small, battery-operated lights that can be easily adhered to the underside of the cabinet above, casting light onto your decorative items.
Fairy Lights: For a whimsical touch, string battery-operated fairy lights across the top.
Tips for success:
Placement is key: Aim for indirect lighting that highlights your decor without being harsh.
Consider brightness: Choose warm white or soft white bulbs for a cozy ambiance.
Battery life: If using battery-operated lights, keep spare batteries handy.
5. The Thematic Approach: Seasonal and Themed Decor
This is a fun way to keep your kitchen feeling fresh and exciting throughout the year.
Seasonal Decor:
Fall: Pumpkins, gourds, autumn-colored leaves, or plaid accents.
Winter: Snowflakes, mini evergreen trees, red and gold ornaments.
Spring: Pastel-colored vases, floral accents, bunny figurines.
Summer: Beach-themed items, bright colors, shell arrangements.
Holiday Decor:
Christmas: Mini wreaths, festive figurines, candy canes.
Easter: Pastel eggs, bunny garlands.
Halloween: Spooky figurines, cobwebs (use sparingly!), themed signs.
Tips for success:
Storage: Have a dedicated box or bin to store your seasonal decor so it’s easy to find and put away.
Simplicity: Don’t feel the need to fill every inch. A few well-placed themed items can be very effective.
6. Minimalist Magic: Less is More
If your style leans towards clean lines and uncluttered spaces, a minimalist approach is perfect.
What to use:
A single statement piece: A striking vase, a modern sculpture, or a minimalist clock.
Matching canisters: A set of three matching canisters in a neutral color.
A simple plant: One well-chosen potted plant.
Tips for success:
Focus on quality: Choose items with beautiful form and texture.
Negative space is your friend: Allow plenty of empty space around your chosen items.
Color palette: Stick to a limited, cohesive color scheme.
Popular Decor Items and Their Pros & Cons
To help you make informed choices, here’s a look at some common decorative items and their advantages and disadvantages for the space above kitchen cabinets.
| Decor Item | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Ceramic Vases/Bowls | Add color, texture, and shape. Versatile for different styles. Easy to clean. | Can be fragile. Dust can accumulate inside open vases. |
| Woven Baskets | Provide stylish storage. Add natural texture. Lightweight and easy to move. | Can trap dust. May not be suitable for storing heavy items. |
| Artificial Plants | Low maintenance, no watering needed. Add greenery and life. No risk of wilting. | Can look artificial if low quality. Still requires dusting. |
| Glass Bottles/Jars | Catch light beautifully. Add color and shine. Easy to clean. | Can be fragile. May show fingerprints or water spots. |
| Decorative Signs (Metal/Wood) | Add personality and a focal point. Lightweight. | Can be limiting if style changes. Might require specific mounting or leaning. |
| LED Strip Lights | Create ambiance and highlight decor. Modern and sleek. Energy efficient. | Requires power source (battery or plug). Can be tricky to install neatly. |
Tips for Styling Kitchen Cabinet Tops
Here are some professional tips to elevate your cabinet top styling game.
Think in Threes (or Fives): Grouping items in odd numbers is visually more appealing and natural-looking.
Vary Heights and Textures: Combine tall items with short ones, and smooth surfaces with rough textures for visual interest.
Use the Rule of Thirds: Mentally divide the space into thirds horizontally and vertically. Place your main focal points at the intersections of these lines for a balanced composition.
Consider the Viewpoint: How will the space look from your usual vantage points in the kitchen (e.g., while cooking, sitting at a table)?
Don’t Forget the Corners: If the space extends into corners, ensure those areas are also styled or kept clear, rather than looking like an afterthought.
Balance is Key: Distribute visual weight evenly. If you have a large item on one side, balance it with a few smaller items on the other.
Cleanliness First: Before decorating, give the cabinet tops a thorough cleaning. Consider using a primer or sealant on the cabinets themselves if you’re concerned about grease buildup, though this is rarely necessary with proper cleaning. For an authoritative guide on kitchen surface care, consult resources from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) on maintaining household surfaces.
Embrace Negative Space: Don’t feel compelled to fill every single inch. Empty space, or “negative space,” allows your decorative items to breathe and stand out.
Frequently Asked Questions About Decorating Above Kitchen Cabinets
Q1: How do I prevent dust from accumulating on my cabinet top decor?
A1: Dust is a common issue. You can regularly dust with a microfiber cloth or a duster with an extendable handle. For items that are hard to clean, consider using closed storage like decorative boxes or baskets. You can also opt for artificial plants that don’t shed pollen or dust.
Q2: What are the best items to put above kitchen cabinets if I have low ceilings?
A2: If your ceilings are low, it’s best to keep the decor minimal and slim. Consider a few small, sleek items like a single modern vase, a set of matching small canisters, or a low-profile artificial plant. Avoid tall, bulky items that can make the space feel cramped.
Q3: Can I put real plants above my kitchen cabinets?
A3: Yes, you can, but consider the light and watering needs. If your cabinet tops receive plenty of natural light and you can easily reach them to water, plants like Pothos, Spider Plants, or Snake Plants can thrive. If light is limited or watering is a hassle, high-quality artificial plants are a great alternative.
Q4: What if my kitchen cabinets are very tall and the space is hard to reach?
A4: For hard-to-reach spaces, focus on items that don’t require frequent dusting or rearrangement. Think about decorative pieces that are easy to wipe down, or consider functional storage like baskets for seldom-used items. You might also look into LED lighting, which adds ambiance without needing much physical interaction.
Q5: How do I choose decor that matches my kitchen style?
A5: Observe your kitchen’s existing color palette, materials (wood, laminate, metal), and overall theme (modern, farmhouse, traditional). Select decorative items that echo these elements. For example, if you have a lot of wood tones, natural baskets or wooden accents would fit well. If your kitchen is modern and sleek, consider metallic or glass items with clean lines.
Q6: Is it okay to use seasonal decor above my cabinets?
A6: Absolutely! Seasonal decor is a wonderful way to keep your kitchen feeling fresh and festive throughout the year. You can swap out items for holidays like Christmas, Easter, or even just the changing seasons (fall pumpkins, spring flowers). Just ensure you have a convenient place to store the decor when it’s not in use.
Q7: What should I avoid putting above my kitchen cabinets?
A7: Avoid very heavy items that could potentially fall or damage the cabinets. Also, steer clear of items that are extremely difficult to clean, as dust and grease can build up. Very small, loose items that can easily scatter are also best avoided. Prioritize safety and ease of maintenance.
Conclusion
Transforming the space above your kitchen cabinets doesn’t require a major renovation or a huge budget. With a little creativity and a few thoughtful choices, you can turn that overlooked area into a stylish and functional extension of your kitchen’s personality. Whether you choose to display cherished mementos, implement smart storage solutions, or simply add a touch of greenery, these simple ideas can make a significant difference in how your kitchen looks and feels. So, take a moment, assess your space, and start decorating. Your kitchen will thank you for it, feeling more complete, personalized, and welcoming than ever before. Happy decorating!
