Kitchen decor above cabinets

9 New Ways to Decorate Above Your Kitchen Cabinets

Shelby Deering

Shelby Deering is a lifestyle writer who specializes in decor articles and home tours. She spends her spare time at flea markets and hunting for vintage finds. Shelby is a member of the American Society of Journalists and Authors.

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Updated on 01/05/22

The Spruce / Candace Madonna

There are those random areas in our homes that seem to be begging for décor, but they tend to be a little, well, awkward. The wall next to the front door. That open spot under the stairs. And the space above the kitchen cabinets, where it seems as if something should go there…but what?

If the styling in your kitchen seems to be lacking in some way and needs just the thing to create a finished look, filling that area above the cabinets might be the answer. There are actually myriad possibilities for decorating that space, proven through featured designers, bloggers, and Instagrammers. From vintage art to practical storage, you can put that space above the cabinets to work.

01 of 09
Display a Meaningful Collection

@sawdust.angel / Instagram

You may enjoy collecting certain objects, but you may not have a specified place for them and end up keeping the pieces hidden away in the basement or a closet. If you haven’t been able to find the right place to showcase that collection, look to the space above your cabinets. The eye will naturally be drawn upward toward your finds, which have their own particular place to stand out. Vases, vintage letters, and even books are ideal to display above cabinets. A series of pitchers filled with faux flowers is also an ideal way to fill the void. You want to make sure, though, that the objects are large enough to see once up high; a collection of salt and pepper shakers, for example, may not be the right scale for that spot.
02 of 09
Hang Vintage Finds
Melissa Goodwin / Getty Images
If you have enough room, you can hang items on the wall in the space above your cabinets. Whether it’s framed family photos, mirrors, small macramé creations, or vintage baking or cooking tools, this extra wall space surprisingly caters to wall art of almost any kind—but flea market treasures seem to look even more charming.
03 of 09
Find Spots for Practical Items

@white.oak.shop / Instagram

Sometimes no matter the size of the kitchen and how much storage there is, we still run out of space. It may be that there's just not a spot for the extra rolls of paper towels, or the vintage kitchen scale won't fit in a cabinet or on the countertop. That's where the spot above the cabinets comes in handy. Display surplus kitchen necessities, cake stands, and trays, while mixing in a few decorative pieces for visual interest. Stick to one color palate for a streamlined look.
04 of 09
Fill the Space With Tall Pieces
Remick Associates
If you have high ceilings, it can be tough to track down décor objects that are tall enough to fill the space above the kitchen cabinets and work seamlessly with the rest of your kitchen styling. Tall, artful vases and ceramic art can visually reach upward toward the ceiling, filling up the bareness above the cabinets and making for a modern feel.
6 Tips for Decorating Rooms With High Ceilings
05 of 09
Weave in an Art Gallery
Honey N Hydrangea
Gallery walls are always a classic, decorative element to bring into any home. While they are timeless and traditional, it’s refreshing to see a gallery that’s presented in a new and different way. Leaning a group of similar style artwork onto each other and the back wall makes for an interesting visual, and using frames that are all the same color creates uniformity. Whether a collection of vintage oil paintings or black and white photographs, this design element is somewhat easy to accomplish and joyful to look at.
Click Play to Learn Ways to Decorate Above Your Kitchen Cabinets
06 of 09
Showcase a Sign

@robynssouthernnest / Instagram

Perhaps you picked up an overscale sign on your last trip to the flea market or local design accessory shop but just can't find the right spot for it in your home. That empty, cold space above the kitchen cabinets is just perfect, whether to fit a long, vintage-inspired sign or custom family saying. It will look cozy above the cabinets, and even better when matched up with bouquets of darling faux flowers.
07 of 09
Create an Indoor Garden
ErikaWittlieb / Pixabay
If you have a green thumb and don't mind climbing up to water the plants every week, setting up the space above cabinets to grow an indoor garden is ideal—just be sure to purchase plants that don’t require a lot of sunlight. Low-light plants, nestled above the cabinetry, add a natural, vibrant accent to the kitchen. Using similar style and colored pots will keep the look clean and contemporary.
10 Kitchen Cabinet Styles
08 of 09
Bring in Artificial Plants

M. Wilcox Design

You may think artificial plants are old-fashioned, reminiscent of the kitchen decor of the 1980s where climbing vines trailed along the tops of kitchen cabinets. But these days you can find beautiful, realistic faux plants that will bring a modern vibe to any space. A bit of greenery in the kitchen is always a welcome touch, and buying a few of the same style will keep the room looking fresh and clean. Add a few other similar arrangements on the counter and dining table to tie it all together.
09 of 09
Include Nooks for Storage

Alvin Wayne

The space above your cabinets can be built up to serve a specific purpose, like providing extra storage. Cleverly use the area above your cabinets to hold baskets, making for additional storage space in your kitchen. The baskets can keep small items and extra kitchen supplies out of sight while adding a decorative touch to the room. Using a set of matching baskets creates a uniform look, and adding vertical dividers will give the space an even more organized and clean appearance.

Decorating above kitchen cabinets: 10 statement looks |

(Image credit: Paul Massey / Jessica Summer / Mary Wadsworth)

If you have a gap between your kitchen cabinets and the ceiling, then you might well be wondering how to fill this space. Decorating above kitchen cabinets is a wonderful way to fill the space with an attractive feature, rather than just letting it gather dust.

Whether you prefer a classic look with lots of detailing or something more modern, these decorating above kitchen cabinet ideas will provide you with the inspiration you need to create a scheme that fits your home's period, your decorating style and the room's proportions.

If you're looking for more kitchen cabinet ideas, these clever ways to decorate above kitchen cabinets will provide kitchen styling inspiration for all your kitchen wall decor desires.

Decorating above kitchen cabinets – 10 ways to add interest

We asked the experts for their top decorating above kitchen cabinet styling ideas and tips. Adding them to your list of must-have kitchen ideas will ensure a more charming space, and needn't drive up your budget, but will create a unique room you, and your guests, will want to spend time in.

1. Use an accent color above cabinets

(Image credit: Neptune)

‘An accent color above eye level is a simple way to add strong contrast to a room, without overpowering. As it’s not immediately noticeable, the accent color will draw the eye up for a visual surprise,’ says George Miller, home designer, Neptune . ‘This can have particularly good results in rooms with taller ceilings or grand cornicing, accentuating either feature to great effect. ’

Continuing the kitchen color idea across different surfaces and planes – for instance, the cooker hood here – has a blocking effect that feels modern and can help smooth out any awkward architectural junctures.

2. Enhance the visual interest

(Image credit: Jessica Summer)

Bring a little joie de vivre to your kitchen by exploring kitchen art ideas and decorating with art above cabinets and shelving. Many would argue that art belongs in the kitchen just as much as it does any other room, and we can't help but agree.

Here, interior designer Jessica Summer sets the scene with earthy tones and plenty of texture. ‘The cabinetry is minimal and contemporary to allow the materials above to stand out, but also to balance the traditional features like the antique butcher’s block and open shelves,’

3. Take paneling to the ceiling

(Image credit: Charlotte Crosland Interiors / Radu Palicia)

Add interest to the space above a kitchen cabinet with wall panels. In period properties, wall paneling ideas that match or complement the original style and architecture of the property are a wonderful way of marrying old with new. Alternatively, in a plain kitchen that is lacking decorative details or any original architecture of its own, adding a paneled area is a clever way of bringing character to a featureless space.

Here, tongue-and-groove paneling, linen curtains and wall-hung storage all contribute to a French country kitchen feel in this space designed by Charlotte Crosland . Keeping your batterie de cuisine in view and close to hand via magnetic knife blocks, utensil racks and pot stands adds to the laid-back, ‘unfitted’ ambience. Decorate with typical brocante finds like chic vintage china, enamelware and artwork inspired by country pursuits.

4. Fill the space above cabinets with objects you love

(Image credit: Alice Naylor-Leyland of Mrs. Alice)

'Colorful kitchen ideas have been enjoying rather a renaissance, and we’re seeing brighter colors on walls, cabinets and even ceilings,’ says Emma Bulmer, head color consultant at Edward Bulmer Natural Paint . ‘The colors and color combinations being used are also becoming more creative and confident.'

Use the space between cabinets and ceiling to really make your space sing. 'An absence of top cupboards really opens up this kitchen, allowing the dusky pink paint color and artwork to add character and personalize the space.’

5. Raise your game

Urbo and In-Frame Classic kitchen cabinetry, Roundhouse. Project by SPPARC

(Image credit: Mary Wadsworth)

The sky – or in this case – the ceiling is the limit when decorating above kitchen cabinets. On maximizing the potential of statement ceilings, architectural practice SPPARC has the drop.

‘Ceiling ideas featuring interesting shapes and materials can be used to achieve an articulation and rhythm with architectural features elsewhere – in this case the floating stairs that lead from the kitchen to the living spaces above,’ says Trevor Morriss of SPPARC . Crafted from stained ash and oak, this chunky ceiling is certain to have everybody talking.

6. Decorate to delight

(Image credit: deVOL )

Put a performative and decorative stamp on a room with wallpaper ideas that delight the senses. Kitchen wallpaper ideas offer a beautiful way to decorate above kitchen cabinets – and there is a huge range of paint colors, as well as wallpaper and fabric patterns, to choose from. Traditional paper patterns, which were frequently inspired by nature such as here, are often block-printed in the same way now as when they were first produced. Classic motifs, such as botanicals, checks and stripes, are eternally popular, while also being particularly on trend at present.

Wallpapers made for kitchens and bathrooms are particularly durable, and we see many clients combining tiled walls with wallpapers to great visual effect – in fact, people seem to go bolder in the kitchen as it is a creative space,' says Paula Taylor, head stylist and trend specialist at Graham & Brown .

7. Curate a smart display

(Image credit: Paul Massey / Sculleries of Stockbridge)

Building a kitchen backsplash out into the room may be of more value to your kitchen than the space it initially takes up. Here in the kitchen of Roddy Murray, founder of interior design practice RJ Murray Design , is a marble kitchen backsplash providing clever cubby-style kitchen storage within, as well as creating a shelf above to display the couple’s favorite pieces of crockery and kitchenware.

8. Light the way

(Image credit: Kitchens By Holloways)

When decorating above kitchen cabinets it can be all too easy to forget about kitchen lighting. However, a few LED strips can go a long way in the kitchen, bringing shelving to life and dialling the mood to relax. The most sophisticated solutions are completely hidden when the lights are off, which requires early discussions with your designer.

‘It is essential to ensure that the LED strips are properly set into recesses within the shelves or cabinetry,’ explains Mark Holloway, managing director, Kitchens By Holloways . ‘Angling them at 45 degrees, back towards the wall, will achieve the best lighting effect and prevent garish reflections or visible fittings. ’

9. Introduce decorative elements

(Image credit: Studio Jake Arnold)

The whole purpose of interior design is to create decorative room ideas that answer the needs of the individuals living in them while reflecting their personalities with good design, and that is just what Jake Arnold has achieved here.

Careful consideration of materials and their placement has the ability to transform your existing kitchen ideas into a decorative room that is truly spectacular. The kitchen of this Californian home is anchored by the carefully-chosen decorative objects above the kitchen cabinets. These materials add interest yet they don’t compete nor do they overpower the room of this size.

10. Install a gallery wall

(Image credit: Future / Paul Massey)

Unexpected as it may seem, we are seeing more and more people experiment with beautiful gallery wall ideas in the kitchen. Now this may not seem like a most sensible space for displaying an expensive art collection, done right, it could be your most admired.

If you are dedicated to the cause, then we suggest taking your gallery wall above the backsplash, or perched on a shelf away from the kitchen sink or stove. However, it is imperative that you speak to a specialist framer before doing so. ‘Objects you might not notice, such as kettles and toasters, can cause damage,’ says Daniel Syrett, Runway Gallery owner. ‘If the artwork is going to go in a kitchen it needs to be sealed in a particular way.’

Is decorating above kitchen cabinets outdated?

The short answer is no. There are so many beautiful ways to decorative above kitchen cabinets that will inject modernity, textural interest and decorative style to your kitchen.

There are many interesting kitchen styling techniques and designs to chose from. First and foremost, you should focus on what you love, whether that be certain colors, patterns or textures. Next, think about how these elements can work together to create a harmonious scheme that is bursting with decorative flourishes.

If you are not planning a full revamp, then art and ceramic objects are the perfect place to begin adding color and pattern contrast to the space above your kitchen cabinets.

Jennifer is the Digital Editor at Homes & Gardens. Having worked in the interiors industry for a number of years, spanning many publications, she now hones her digital prowess on the 'best interiors website' in the world. Multi-skilled, Jennifer has worked in PR and marketing, and the occasional dabble in the social media, commercial and e-commerce space. Over the years, she has written about every area of the home, from compiling design houses from some of the best interior designers in the world to sourcing celebrity homes, reviewing appliances and even the odd news story or two.

7 creative ways to use space above kitchen cabinets

1 Arrange storage containers

Instagram arcadianimprovements

In a small kitchen, you should use as much space as possible for storage. So if there is space between the cabinets and the ceiling, you can place baskets, boxes, containers and other containers with things that you use infrequently there.

Storage basket

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Rarely used household appliances or bulky pots can also be removed upstairs.

2 Arrange the dishes nicely

Instagram mariakillam

A beautiful set of dishes can be a great option for decorating a kitchen. You can place it just above the lockers.

We advise you to look for interesting dishes in handmade ceramics stores.

3 Decorate with vintage items

Instagram ayakitchens

Another type of decor that will look great on cabinets is various vintage items. They will add coziness and will look harmonious in kitchens in many styles: Provence, eclecticism, country and even modern style will make great friends with old boxes, vases or a decorative cage.

4 Add plants

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Another element of the interior that immediately adds coziness is indoor plants. If there is no space on the windowsill or other surfaces, it is quite possible to place them on cabinets. The main thing is not to forget to take care of the flowers or choose those that do not require too much attention.

5 Set up a mini library

Instagram hanak_kitchen

Why not place cookbooks on the cabinets? Of these, you can make an interesting composition, supplementing it with decor items.

6 Make a decorative inscription

Instagram fineline_inc

An inspirational or atmospheric phrase can also be placed above cabinets. This technique will add individuality to the interior.

Vinyl sticker

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7 Post pictures or posters

Instagram homeallure.ae

If there is enough space both in the kitchen itself and above the cabinets, you can use the space above them as a small art gallery. So you will definitely get compliments from guests for originality!

Posters for the kitchen

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How do you use the space above the cabinets in your kitchen? Share your answers in the comments.

10 useful ideas for space above kitchen cabinets

Drawers or baskets

In cramped kitchens, top cabinets can be used to store small items needed in the household, as well as rarely used appliances. So that the interior does not resemble a warehouse, we do not recommend buying plastic or transparent containers.

Wooden crates, wicker baskets, and boxes with lids to keep things dust-free will do. It is desirable that the containers look the same.

The top tier is a great place to store items that need to be hidden from children.

Crockery

Beautiful crockery looks great on the upper kitchen cabinets: it is especially useful if there is not enough space inside. It is worth sending up deep ceramic bowls, jugs and trays that are rarely used: then, in order to set the table, you do not have to stand on a stool every day. Collections of plates without drawings, candy bowls, clay pots look stylish.

Refrain from "mixed" colors, otherwise the dishes will make the space on the cabinets cluttered.

Mirror

A decorative technique that allows you to create an interesting optical illusion. A mirrored canvas will add air to the atmosphere and create the impression that there is another room behind the kitchen set.

When ordering a mirror, keep in mind that it will reflect not only the ceiling, but also the things placed on the cabinets.

Houseplants

Glass bottles and jars

Another way to add lightness to the interior and use the usable space at the same time is to place glass utensils on top: beautiful jars, bottles and vases. Transparent glass creates an interesting effect by reflecting and refracting light. Also, empty glassware made of colored glass is suitable for decoration.

If the bottles are full and there is no place to store them, arrange the containers in identical metal baskets. This solution looks much more aesthetic than the bottles arranged in a row.

Second row of cabinets

Suitable for flats with low ceilings: the cabinets that make up another upper tier make the kitchen more solid and complete. There is much more storage space, the ceiling looks visually higher, and the dishes remain protected from dust by closed facades.

Books

Residential kitchen owners will appreciate this decoration method: elements such as books, flowers and baskets make the cooking space more comfortable and bring it closer to the room design. Upstairs, you can store publications with recipes, as well as rarely re-read works.

If you cook often, high temperatures and humidity can affect the appearance of your books.

Picture frames

A high-ceilinged kitchen can easily be turned into a gallery by arranging frames with photographs, posters or drawings on the upper cabinets. Such decor will definitely attract the attention of guests, as well as dilute the boring atmosphere.

In order not to overload the suspended structures, choose large frames with lightweight plexiglass.

Lighting

Additional kitchen lighting is a functional part of kitchen decor. It can be turned on during romantic dinners or evening gatherings. Suitable light sources:

diode tape that fits optimally into high-tech;
electric garland - for country, Provence, Scandinavian style;
spot and track lights, ideal for loft and contemporary.

Leave empty

We do not recommend filling the space above the cabinets in two cases:

If the active backsplash continues above the set and reaches the ceiling, then the wall looks solid.
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