What can I put above my kitchen cabinets? You can display decorative items, store infrequently used items, or even enhance your kitchen’s lighting with items placed above your kitchen cabinets.
The area above kitchen cabinets is often an overlooked space, a blank canvas just waiting for a touch of personality. Many homeowners grapple with how to decorate this vertical expanse, unsure whether to leave it bare, clutter it with random items, or style it thoughtfully. This guide delves into the art of decorating the space over kitchen cabinets, offering a wealth of ideas and practical tips to transform this often-neglected zone into a stylish and functional part of your kitchen. We’ll explore various approaches to above cabinet kitchen styling, ensuring you can make the most of your kitchen space and elevate your kitchen wall decor.
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Why Decorate Above Kitchen Cabinets?
Decorating the space above kitchen cabinets is more than just an aesthetic choice; it’s a strategic move to enhance your kitchen’s overall appeal and functionality. This elevated area presents a unique opportunity to:
- Add personality and style: It’s a prime spot to showcase your taste and add visual interest to your kitchen.
- Create a sense of completeness: A well-styled area above cabinets can make your kitchen feel more finished and intentional.
- Enhance kitchen wall decor: It provides a vertical canvas to complement your existing kitchen backsplash ideas and overall design.
- Offer practical storage: For those seeking creative kitchen storage, this space can be surprisingly useful.
- Improve lighting: Strategic placement of lighting can dramatically change the mood of your kitchen.
Leaving this space empty can make a kitchen feel unfinished, drawing the eye upwards to a void. Conversely, haphazardly filling it can make the kitchen feel cluttered and overwhelming. The key is finding a balance that suits your style and needs.
Popular Kitchen Cabinet Top Decor Ideas
When it comes to kitchen cabinet top decor ideas, there’s a wide spectrum to choose from, catering to different tastes and kitchen styles. The goal is to create a cohesive look that complements your cabinetry and the rest of your kitchen.
Displaying Decorative Objects
This is perhaps the most common approach to decorating the space over kitchen cabinets. It allows you to inject your personality into the kitchen and add visual appeal.
What to Put Above Kitchen Cabinets:
- Ceramic or Stoneware Pieces: Vases, pitchers, decorative bowls, or sculptures can add a touch of elegance. Consider pieces with interesting textures or glazes.
- Greenery (Artificial or Faux): Trailing plants, such as faux ivy or eucalyptus garlands, can soften the lines of the cabinets and add a natural element. Ensure they are UV-resistant if exposed to sunlight to prevent fading.
- Themed Collections: If you have a particular interest, such as vintage kitchenware, blue and white pottery, or seasonal decorations, this is a great place to display them.
- Baskets: Woven baskets can add texture and a rustic feel. They can hold decorative items or even be used for subtle storage.
- Framed Art or Photos: Small framed prints or cherished family photos can personalize the space. Consider waterproof frames if your kitchen is prone to steam.
- Lighting Fixtures: Small accent lights can be strategically placed to highlight your decor or provide ambient lighting.
Considerations for Displaying Objects:
- Scale: Choose items that are proportionate to the space. Too small, and they’ll get lost; too large, and they’ll overwhelm.
- Color Palette: Select items that complement your kitchen’s existing color scheme.
- Dust Factor: Think about how easy it will be to dust these items. More intricate pieces can be dust magnets.
- Balance: Don’t overcrowd the space. Less is often more. Aim for a balanced arrangement.
Creative Kitchen Storage Solutions
For kitchens where space is at a premium, the area above cabinets can be a clever place for storage. This approach prioritizes function while still allowing for a touch of style.
Above Cabinet Storage Solutions:
- Decorative Bins and Baskets: Use stylish bins or baskets to house items you don’t need daily but want to keep accessible. Think holiday serving platters, extra cookbooks, or bulky baking supplies.
- Clear Glass Jars: For a more curated look, store pantry staples like pasta, flour, or sugar in large, clear glass jars. This can look very appealing and keeps contents visible.
- Matching Containers: Invest in a set of matching decorative containers or tins. This creates a uniform and organized appearance.
- Ottomans or Step Stools: If the cabinets are high, a decorative ottoman or a stylish step stool can be stored neatly above, ready for when you need to reach items.
Tips for Using Above Cabinet Space for Storage:
- Labeling: Consider discreet labeling on the back or bottom of containers if you have many similar items.
- Accessibility: Store items you access less frequently here to avoid constant reaching.
- Weight Distribution: Be mindful of the weight of items you store, ensuring your cabinets can support them.
Enhancing Kitchen Lighting
Lighting can dramatically transform the ambiance of your kitchen, and the space above cabinets is no exception.
Lighting Options for Above Cabinets:
- Under-Cabinet Lighting: While not strictly above cabinets, this is a popular and effective lighting solution that complements the upper area.
- Accent Spotlights: Small, directional spotlights can be aimed upwards to highlight decorative items or create a warm glow.
- LED Strip Lights: Flexible LED strips can be mounted along the top edge of cabinets to cast a soft, ambient light downwards or upwards, creating a dramatic effect.
- Plug-in Sconces: If you don’t have hardwiring capabilities, plug-in sconces can offer a stylish lighting solution without complex installation.
Tips for Kitchen Lighting Above Cabinets:
- Warm White Bulbs: Opt for warm white bulbs (around 2700K) for a cozy and inviting kitchen atmosphere.
- Dimmer Switches: Install dimmer switches to control the intensity of the light and adjust the mood.
- Consider Bulb Type: LED lights are energy-efficient and long-lasting, making them a great choice.
Styling Strategies for Above Cabinet Spaces
Regardless of whether you choose to display decorative items or store goods, there are several styling strategies that can help you achieve a polished look.
The Art of the Vignette
A vignette is a small, decorative arrangement of items. Creating a vignette above your kitchen cabinets is a way to tell a story or reflect a theme.
Creating a Successful Vignette:
- Choose a Focal Point: Select one or two larger items to anchor the arrangement.
- Vary Heights: Use items of different heights to create visual interest. A tall vase can be paired with a shorter bowl and a small plant.
- Introduce Texture: Mix materials like metal, ceramic, wood, and glass to add depth and tactile appeal.
- Consider Color: Stick to a limited color palette that complements your kitchen.
- Negative Space: Don’t fill every inch. Allow for some empty space, which makes the displayed items stand out more.
Grouping and Symmetry
Arranging items in groups or symmetrically can create a sense of order and balance.
Grouping Ideas:
- Odd Numbers: Groupings of three or five items often look more visually appealing than even numbers.
- The Rule of Three: Arrange items in a triangle formation for a pleasing composition.
- Thematic Grouping: Display a collection of similar items, like vintage tins or colorful glassware.
Symmetrical Arrangements:
- Mirror Image: Place identical items on either side of a central piece.
- Balanced Weight: Even if items aren’t identical, ensure their visual weight is balanced.
Seasonal Decor
The space above cabinets is a fantastic place to inject seasonal flair into your kitchen.
Seasonal Styling:
- Spring/Summer: Light colors, floral motifs, or greenery can bring a fresh feel.
- Fall: Warm colors, gourds, pumpkins, or autumn-themed garlands.
- Winter: Evergreens, subtle metallic accents, or snowflake motifs.
- Holidays: Themed decorations for Christmas, Easter, or other holidays.
Tips for Seasonal Decor:
- Rotate Items: Swap out decorations seasonally to keep your kitchen feeling fresh.
- Subtlety is Key: Avoid overdoing it, especially with busy holidays. A few well-chosen pieces can make a big impact.
Making the Most of Your Kitchen Space: Beyond the Cabinets
While decorating above kitchen cabinets is a significant step, it’s worth considering the broader context of making the most of your kitchen space. This includes how the area above cabinets integrates with your overall kitchen design.
Complementing Your Kitchen Backsplash Ideas
Your kitchen backsplash is a key design element. The decor above your cabinets should harmonize with it.
- Color Coordination: If your backsplash has bold colors or patterns, opt for more neutral or complementary decor above.
- Style Harmony: A modern backsplash might pair well with minimalist decor above, while a subway tile backsplash could suit a more eclectic mix.
- Visual Flow: Ensure the items above cabinets don’t compete with the backsplash for attention.
Integrating with Kitchen Wall Decor
Consider the overall kitchen wall decor strategy.
- Height Balance: If you have artwork or shelves on other walls, the space above cabinets can act as an extension of this vertical display.
- Theme Consistency: Maintain a consistent theme or style across all your kitchen wall decor.
- Focal Points: Decide if the area above cabinets is a secondary focal point or meant to blend seamlessly.
Creative Kitchen Storage Integration
When using the space for storage, think about how it integrates with your other kitchen storage.
- Accessibility: Reserve this space for items you don’t need to grab daily.
- Aesthetics: If items are visible, ensure they are stored in attractive containers.
- Organization Systems: Even in decorative bins, maintaining some internal organization can be helpful.
Practical Considerations and Tips
Before you start arranging, consider these practical aspects to ensure your decor is both attractive and manageable.
Dust Management
This is a common challenge for decor placed high up.
- Choose Easy-to-Clean Items: Smooth surfaces like glass, metal, or sealed ceramics are easier to wipe down than intricate or porous materials.
- Use Microfiber Dusters: Invest in long-handled microfiber dusters that can reach the space easily.
- Regular Cleaning Schedule: Make dusting this area a part of your regular cleaning routine.
- Consider Enclosed Storage: If dust is a major concern, consider using decorative boxes or cabinets that close.
Safety First
Especially in a kitchen environment, safety is paramount.
- Secure Items: Ensure that any items placed above cabinets are stable and won’t easily fall, especially if you have children or pets. Use museum putty or adhesive strips if needed for heavier items.
- Avoid Overcrowding: Too many items can create a precarious situation.
- Flammability: Keep decorative items away from heat sources like stoves or oven vents. Avoid highly flammable materials.
Lighting and Power
If you plan to incorporate lighting, consider the practicalities.
- Proximity to Outlets: If using plug-in lights, ensure there’s a conveniently located outlet.
- Cord Management: Hide or neatly arrange cords to maintain a tidy look. Cable clips or raceways can be very useful.
- Professional Installation: For wired lighting, consult a qualified electrician.
What NOT to Put Above Kitchen Cabinets
While the possibilities are vast, some things are best avoided in this space.
- Food Items (unless sealed and attractive): Open boxes of cereal or bags of flour can attract pests and look messy.
- Anything Fragile and Frequently Used: Items that need to be accessed constantly are better placed in lower, more accessible cabinets.
- Clutter: Avoid just piling up random items you don’t know where else to put. This can make your kitchen look messy.
- Overly Trendy Items: Unless you plan to update frequently, stick to pieces that have some longevity.
- Anything that Blocks Ventilation: Ensure you don’t obstruct any vents or air circulation needed for your appliances.
Examples of Above Cabinet Decor
To provide concrete inspiration, let’s look at some popular and effective decorating styles for the space above kitchen cabinets.
Modern & Minimalist
This style emphasizes clean lines and uncluttered spaces.
- Items: Sleek ceramic vases, a few well-chosen plants (real or faux), simple geometric sculptures.
- Color Palette: Neutrals like white, grey, black, and metallic accents.
- Arrangement: Sparse and symmetrical, with plenty of negative space.
Farmhouse & Rustic
This style embraces natural materials and a cozy, lived-in feel.
- Items: Woven baskets, vintage metal tins, wooden signs, ceramic pitchers, greenery garlands.
- Color Palette: Earth tones, whites, creams, muted greens.
- Arrangement: Can be more eclectic and asymmetrical, focusing on texture.
Bohemian & Eclectic
This style is all about personality and mixing different elements.
- Items: A mix of ceramics, plants, perhaps some small art pieces, colorful decorative bowls.
- Color Palette: Rich, vibrant colors, often mixed together.
- Arrangement: More 자유로운 (freeform) and layered, with items of varying styles and origins.
Transitional Style
This style blends classic and contemporary elements for a timeless look.
- Items: A mix of smooth ceramic pieces, metal accents, and perhaps a decorative tray.
- Color Palette: Balanced, often incorporating neutrals with a few accent colors.
- Arrangement: Usually balanced and considered, with a focus on creating a pleasing visual flow.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Is it okay to put items above my kitchen cabinets?
Yes, it is absolutely fine to put items above your kitchen cabinets. It’s a great way to add personality, style, and even extra storage to your kitchen.
Q2: What is the best way to clean items above kitchen cabinets?
The best way to clean items above kitchen cabinets is to use a long-handled duster, preferably microfiber, to reach the area. For more thorough cleaning, use a damp cloth and mild soap, then dry thoroughly. If the items are particularly dusty or grimy, you might need to carefully take them down to clean them.
Q3: Should I match the decor above my cabinets to my kitchen backsplash?
While you don’t have to match them exactly, your decor above the cabinets should complement your kitchen backsplash and the overall kitchen design. Aim for a cohesive look in terms of color, style, and theme.
Q4: How often should I change the decor above my kitchen cabinets?
This depends on your preference. Some people like to keep their decor consistent for a long time, while others enjoy changing it seasonally or annually to refresh their kitchen’s look.
Q5: What if my cabinets go all the way to the ceiling?
If your cabinets extend to the ceiling, you have fewer options for decorating the space above them. In this case, focus on the cabinet doors themselves for decor, or consider adding decorative molding or a soffit. If there’s a small ledge, very minimal decor might still be possible, but be cautious of making it look cluttered.
Decorating the space above kitchen cabinets is a rewarding endeavor that can significantly enhance your kitchen’s aesthetic and functionality. By carefully considering your style, the items you choose, and practical aspects like dusting and safety, you can transform this often-ignored area into a beautiful and purposeful extension of your kitchen design. Experiment with different kitchen cabinet top decor ideas to find what best suits your home and lifestyle.