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Best Way to Decorate Above Kitchen Cabinets: Stunning Ideas
Decorating the space above kitchen cabinets is one of those finishing touches that can make your kitchen feel complete. Many people struggle with this area, unsure whether to leave it empty, use it for storage, or treat it as a display space.
The right approach can transform your kitchen, adding warmth, personality, and even a sense of luxury. Let’s explore the best ways to decorate above kitchen cabinets, with practical ideas, expert tips, and creative inspiration for every style and budget.
Why The Space Above Kitchen Cabinets Matters
The area above your kitchen cabinets is often overlooked, but it plays a big role in the overall look of your kitchen. This space, sometimes called the “soffit” or “bulkhead,” can collect dust if left empty. But with the right decoration, it draws the eye upward, making the room feel taller and more stylish.
Decorating this space can also:
- Soften the hard lines of cabinetry
- Add colour or texture to a plain kitchen
- Give you a chance to show your style
- Make use of awkward vertical space
Many homeowners wonder if it’s better to keep this area empty, but the truth is, a thoughtfully decorated space above your cabinets can create a finished, designer look.
Assessing Your Kitchen And Needs
Before you start decorating, take a good look at your kitchen:
- Cabinet height: Is there a small gap or a large open space above?
- Ceiling type: Flat, sloped, or with architectural details?
- Kitchen style: Modern, rustic, traditional, or eclectic?
- Lighting: Is the area bright, or does it need extra light?
- Cleaning needs: Will items above collect dust or grease easily?
These details will help you decide what works best and how much effort you want to invest in maintaining your display.
Credit: thecrazycraftlady.com
Classic Decorating Ideas
Some decoration styles have stood the test of time. These options work for many kitchens and are easy to adapt.
1. Greenery And Plants
Adding real or faux plants is a simple way to bring life to your kitchen. Greenery softens hard lines and adds a fresh, natural touch. Try trailing ivy, pothos, or ferns for a lush look. If maintenance is a concern, high-quality faux plants are a practical alternative.
Tip: Use long, trailing plants in kitchens with high ceilings. For low ceilings, stick to compact potted plants.
2. Baskets And Woven Items
Woven baskets add texture and warmth. They are perfect for farmhouse or coastal styles. Arrange baskets of different sizes and shapes for a relaxed, collected-over-time look. You can also use baskets for hidden storage, keeping less-used items within reach but out of sight.
3. Decorative Plates And Platters
Displaying colourful plates or platters is a classic way to decorate above cabinets. This works especially well in traditional or Mediterranean-style kitchens. Use plate stands or hangers to keep items secure.
4. Cookbooks And Recipe Collections
If you have a cookbook collection, the space above your cabinets is a great spot to show it off. Stack books horizontally or stand them up with bookends. Choose books with attractive covers to add visual interest.
5. Art And Prints
Small framed prints or canvas art can turn the area above your cabinets into a mini-gallery. Choose artwork that complements your kitchen’s colours and style. For a modern look, try black-and-white photography or abstract art.
Modern And Minimalist Approaches
Contemporary kitchens often favour clean lines and uncluttered spaces. But “minimal” doesn’t mean boring.
6. Simple Vases And Sculptures
A few sleek vases or geometric sculptures add style without clutter. Choose items in the same colour family as your cabinets for a seamless look. Glass, ceramic, and metal work well in modern kitchens.
7. Monochrome Displays
Pick one colour and use objects in different shades and textures. For example, a row of white ceramics or black candleholders creates a calm, cohesive look.
8. Lighting Accents
Add drama with LED strip lighting or puck lights. Placing lights above your cabinets makes the space glow softly in the evenings and highlights your decorations. Lighting can also make your kitchen feel larger.
9. Negative Space
Sometimes, the best choice is to do less. Leaving some or all of the space empty can create a feeling of openness. This works well in small kitchens or spaces with bold cabinetry.
Credit: southernhomeandhospitality.com
Rustic And Farmhouse Inspiration
For a cosy, welcoming kitchen, rustic and farmhouse touches are always popular.
10. Vintage Kitchen Tools
Display antique scales, rolling pins, or enamelware for instant country charm. Look for items at flea markets or second-hand shops. A mix of wood, metal, and stoneware looks authentic and warm.
11. Wooden Crates And Boxes
Old wooden crates can hold plants, jars, or bottles. Their weathered look adds history and character. Arrange crates at different angles for a relaxed, informal display.
12. Jars And Canisters
Fill glass jars with dried pasta, beans, or colourful sweets. This adds a touch of nostalgia and can be changed with the seasons.
13. Signs And Chalkboards
A hand-painted farmhouse sign or a small chalkboard with a favourite quote gives your kitchen a personal touch. Change the message for holidays or special occasions.
Functional Decoration Ideas
If storage is tight, use the space above your cabinets smartly.
14. Storing Less-used Kitchenware
Place large pots, serving trays, or seasonal dishes above your cabinets. This keeps them out of the way but easy to grab when needed. Choose attractive items, or group them in matching bins.
15. Wine Storage
Install a wine rack or simply display a few favourite bottles. Make sure the space isn’t too warm, as heat can spoil wine over time.
16. Extra Pantry Space
Store dry goods in pretty containers. Use airtight jars for rice, flour, or snacks. Label everything for a tidy look.
Seasonal And Rotating Displays
Keep your kitchen feeling fresh by changing your decorations throughout the year.
17. Holiday Decor
Add small wreaths, garlands, or themed objects for Christmas, Easter, or autumn. Choose lightweight decorations that are easy to swap out.
18. Fresh Flowers
Place a vase of seasonal flowers above your cabinets for a burst of colour. This works especially well in spring and summer.
19. Rotating Art Or Photos
Swap out prints or family photos every few months. This keeps the space interesting and gives you a chance to showcase memories.
Creative And Personal Touches
Let your personality shine with unique ideas.
20. Travel Souvenirs
Display pottery, masks, or crafts from your travels. These items tell a story and make your kitchen feel one-of-a-kind.
21. Collectibles
If you collect teapots, tins, or figurines, the space above your cabinets is a perfect mini-museum. Just make sure not to overcrowd the area.
22. Diy Projects
Handmade items—like painted pots, macramé hangers, or mosaic tiles—make your kitchen truly yours.
Comparing Popular Decoration Choices
To help you choose the best way to decorate above kitchen cabinets, here’s a comparison of some popular options:
| Decoration Type | Best For | Maintenance | Visual Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Greenery/Plants | Any style | Low to moderate | Fresh, lively |
| Baskets/Woven Items | Farmhouse, rustic | Low | Warm, textured |
| Art/Prints | Modern, eclectic | Very low | Personal, colourful |
| Extra Storage | Small kitchens | Moderate | Functional, varied |
| Lighting | Modern, luxury | Low | Elegant, dramatic |
Important Tips For Decorating Above Kitchen Cabinets
Even the best decoration ideas can go wrong if not planned well. Here are practical tips and two insights beginners often miss:
Consider Proportion And Scale
Choose decorations that fit the size of the space. Large, chunky items look better in big gaps, while small objects can get lost. Try grouping items in odd numbers (three or five) for a more natural look.
Use Layers For Depth
Instead of lining up items in a row, stagger them—place some objects closer to the edge, others towards the back. This creates depth and interest.
Dust And Grease Control
Above the cabinets is a magnet for dust and kitchen grease. Choose items that are easy to wipe clean. Avoid using delicate fabrics or books unless the area is well-ventilated.
Secure Decorations
If you live in an area with earthquakes or pets that climb, use museum putty or removable adhesive strips to keep items in place.
Lighting Matters
If the space is dark, decorations can look dull. Add small LED lights to make your display pop, especially in the evening.
Beginner Insight 1: Many people forget that the area above cabinets is seen from below, not straight on. Choose items that look good from a low angle—tall objects, or items with interesting tops and sides.
Beginner Insight 2: Don’t try to fill the entire space. Leaving some gaps gives your display breathing room and makes each item stand out.
When To Leave Above The Cabinets Empty
Sometimes, less is more. If your kitchen has high-end finishes, bold colours, or minimal décor, it’s okay to leave the space above your cabinets empty. This can make your kitchen feel calmer and more spacious.
Common Decorating Mistakes To Avoid
Decorating above the cabinets can go wrong if you:
- Overcrowd the space: Too many items look messy and collect dust.
- Use random, unrelated objects: Your display should feel intentional, not like a storage area.
- Ignore cleaning needs: Avoid items that are hard to clean.
- Choose the wrong scale: Tiny items disappear; oversized ones can overwhelm.
- Forget about lighting: Dark objects in a shadowy space won’t be noticed.
Step-by-step: How To Decorate Above Kitchen Cabinets
If you’re ready to start, here’s a simple process:
- Measure the space above your cabinets—height, width, and depth.
- Decide on a theme or colour palette that matches your kitchen.
- Gather items you want to display—group them on a table first.
- Test arrangements on the floor before lifting items up.
- Clean the top of your cabinets thoroughly.
- Place larger items first, then fill in with smaller ones.
- Step back and check from different angles.
- Add lighting if needed.
- Secure items to prevent slipping.
- Review every few months to clean and refresh your display.
How Different Kitchen Styles Influence Decoration
Every kitchen has its own style, and your decorations should match.
| Kitchen Style | Best Decoration Ideas |
|---|---|
| Modern | Simple vases, monochrome objects, LED lighting |
| Farmhouse | Baskets, vintage signs, greenery |
| Traditional | Plates, cookbooks, classic art prints |
| Industrial | Metal baskets, old tools, exposed bulbs |
| Eclectic | Mix of collectibles, travel souvenirs, bold art |
Cost And Effort Comparison
Not all decoration ideas cost the same or require equal effort.
| Decoration Type | Estimated Cost (£) | Time to Set Up | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|
| Faux plants | 20-50 | 1 hour | Very easy |
| Baskets | 15-40 each | 30 mins | Easy |
| LED lighting | 30-100 | 1-2 hours | Moderate |
| Vintage finds | Varies | 2-3 hours hunting | Easy to moderate |
| DIY projects | Depends on materials | 1-3 hours | Moderate |
Inspiration From Designers
Professional designers often use the above-cabinet space to make kitchens feel finished and expensive. They mix textures, use lighting, and avoid overcrowding. A well-decorated space makes a big difference in open-plan homes, where the kitchen is visible from the living area.
For more inspiration, you can check out ideas from House Beautiful, a trusted source for interior design trends.
Cleaning And Maintenance
No one wants a dusty kitchen. Here’s how to keep things looking good:
- Dust weekly with a long-handled duster.
- For greasy build-up, wipe with a damp cloth and mild soap.
- Choose decorations that can be washed or wiped down.
- Rotate decorations a few times a year to clean underneath.
If you use live plants, water them carefully to avoid drips. For cookbooks, dust covers and spines often.
When To Re-decorate
Change your display when:
- You update your kitchen’s colour or style
- The decorations start to look outdated or dusty
- Seasons or holidays change
- You want to showcase something new (like a travel souvenir or special gift)
Refreshing your display keeps your kitchen feeling lively and well-cared for.
Credit: www.thepondsfarmhouse.com
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is The Best Way To Decorate Above Kitchen Cabinets In A Small Kitchen?
In small kitchens, less is more. Choose simple, functional items—like a few attractive storage baskets or a trailing plant. Avoid clutter and keep the display light to make the space feel larger.
Can I Use Real Plants Above My Kitchen Cabinets?
Yes, but choose low-maintenance, drought-tolerant plants like pothos or snake plants. Faux plants are also a good option if watering is difficult or the area is hard to reach.
How Do I Prevent Dust And Grease Build-up On Decorations?
Use items that are easy to clean. Dust weekly, and wipe with a damp cloth if needed. Avoid placing anything delicate or hard to wash above cabinets, especially near the stove.
Is Lighting Above Kitchen Cabinets Worth It?
Yes, lighting adds warmth and highlights your decorations. LED strip lights are easy to install and energy efficient. They also make your kitchen feel more inviting in the evenings.
What Should I Avoid When Decorating Above Kitchen Cabinets?
Avoid overcrowding, using random items, or anything too small to see from below. Steer clear of delicate fabrics and anything that will be hard to clean or keep secure.
Decorating above your kitchen cabinets is a chance to add style, function, and your personal touch. Whether you prefer a minimalist look or a cosy, collected display, the right approach can transform your kitchen into a space that feels finished and welcoming.
Take your time, experiment with different ideas, and enjoy the process—your kitchen will thank you.
