How to Decorate Above Kitchen Cabinets: 8 Great Ideas

For most of us, that awkward space above the kitchen cabinets is a constant design dilemma. It’s not exactly easy to access, but at the same time, it looks a little empty. While there isn’t one correct answer, there are definitely a few great options! We’ve got eight great ideas on how to decorate above your kitchen cabinets.

Display a Collection

We all have a collection of something that we might not know what to do with. Maybe it’s decorative plates, vintage tins or treasured family heirlooms. Whatever it is, if it makes you smile, it deserves to be on display.

Take advantage of that space above your kitchen cabinets to show off a little bit of your personality and get your collection out of storage. The key to making this look work is not to overdo it. If the space is crowded and you can’t see all the items on display, it will look cluttered instead of curated.

Add Stylish Storage Above the Kitchen Cabinets

For a functional and unified look, line the top of your cabinets with matching baskets. Take the time to measure the space above your cabinets, so you get the right fit. You want it to look like the baskets were designed to accompany your cabinets. Choose baskets about an inch shorter than the space above the cabinets, so they’re easy to pull out. Get enough baskets to run the length of the room and you’ll gain a ton of extra storage.

Think Green

If you’re lucky enough to have a bright, sunny kitchen, take advantage of the excellent growth potential on top of your kitchen cabinets. We know that creating a connection to nature in our homes is good for us, so using plants to decorate above the kitchen cabinets is really a win-win.

Choose uniform planters to keep the look clean and intentional. But be sure to mix up the plants to create a balance of different textures and heights. Add a watering bulb or spike to each pot to reduce the number of times you have to climb up there to water them.

Pretty and Practical

If you never seem to have enough storage in the kitchen, the space above your kitchen cabinets is prime real estate. Think of those kitchen items that don’t get used a lot but are actually kind of pretty. For example, a ceramic cake stand, your nicest vases, large canisters, and pretty serving bowls are all items that look good on display. Free up valuable space in the cupboards by moving these seldom-used items up and storing something you use more often below.

Go Overboard with Trim Above the Kitchen Cabinets

If you prefer a clean look but don’t want to see that awkward space above the kitchen cabinets, fill it in! Use drywall to form a bulkhead over the cabinets and then add some drama with bold crown molding. The architectural detailing will draw the eye up and make a statement but won’t collect any dust.

Light it Up!

Instead of putting a bunch of stuff in the space above your kitchen cabinets, make a statement with lighting. Layering your lighting adds depth and dimension to any room, and the kitchen is no exception. For example, install a row of pot lights above the cabinets to create a downlit effect. Or opt for easy-to-install strip lighting above the cabinets to get the perfect nighttime ambiance without all the work.

Fake It

If you love the look of cabinets that go all the way to the ceiling but don’t want to embark on a costly reno, get the look for less with faux cabinet fronts. Choose panels that match the rest of your cabinets, or add a little pizzaz with back-lit glass door fronts. The great thing about this look is you can install them and then forget about it. No dusting, watering or trying to remember what you have stored up there.

Dare to Be Bare

If you have a beautiful kitchen you love, don’t take away from the main attraction. Tile, stone, cabinets and lighting are really the stars of the show, so why not let them shine? Instead of drawing attention to the space above the kitchen cabinets, go ahead and dare to be bare!

What’s your favorite way to decorate above the kitchen cabinets? Do you love the open look, or are you ready to try out some of these sweet styles?