How To Decor Empty Space Above Kitchen Cabinet Ideas & Storage

What do you do with the empty space above your kitchen cabinets? You can fill this awkward void with decorative items, practical storage solutions, or a combination of both. This often-overlooked area presents a fantastic opportunity to enhance your kitchen’s style and functionality.

The gap between your upper kitchen cabinets and the ceiling can be a decorating challenge. It’s a prime spot to collect dust and can make your kitchen feel unfinished. But with a little creativity, you can transform this space into something beautiful and useful. This guide will explore various ways to tackle decorating kitchen cabinet tops and filling the kitchen cabinet void, providing inspiration for what to put above kitchen cabinets and organizing kitchen cabinet tops.

Maximizing Your Kitchen’s Vertical Appeal

The vertical space above your kitchen cabinets is valuable real estate. It’s a place where you can add personality, store seldom-used items, or simply create a cleaner, more cohesive look. Let’s dive into some popular and effective strategies for kitchen cabinet top decor.

Stylish Solutions for Above Cabinet Storage Ideas

When thinking about the area above your cabinets, practicality often comes to mind first. Above cabinet storage ideas are plentiful and can be a lifesaver in kitchens that lack ample cupboard space.

Shelving Solutions for the Stratosphere

One of the most common and effective ways to utilize this space is by adding shelves. Above cabinet shelf ideas can range from simple floating shelves to custom-built units.

Floating Shelves: These offer a modern and clean look. You can use them to display cookbooks, attractive canisters, or decorative plants.
Open Shelving Units: For a more substantial storage solution, consider an open shelving unit that fits snugly between the cabinet tops and the ceiling. This is ideal for storing larger items like decorative bowls or even seldom-used appliances.
Built-in Shelving: If you’re undertaking a kitchen renovation, consider built-in shelving as part of the design. This provides a seamless look and can be tailored to your exact needs.

Decorative Baskets and Bins

Baskets and bins are fantastic for organizing kitchen cabinet tops in a visually appealing way.

Woven Baskets: These add a natural, rustic touch. They are perfect for storing pantry items, linens, or even small kitchen gadgets.
Metal Bins: For a more industrial or modern aesthetic, metal bins can be both stylish and durable. They’re great for storing cleaning supplies or spare paper towels.
Fabric Bins: These offer a softer look and can be easily labeled for clear organization.

Glass-Fronted Cabinets or Display Cases

For a more polished look, consider adding small glass-fronted cabinets or display cases above your existing cabinets. This allows you to showcase decorative items while keeping them dust-free.

Creative Decorating Kitchen Cabinet Tops

Beyond storage, the space above cabinets is a canvas for displaying items above cabinets. This is where you can inject your personal style into the kitchen.

Art and Wall Decor

Framed Artwork: Hang small pieces of art or framed photographs that complement your kitchen’s color scheme.
Wall Sculptures: Lightweight metal or wooden sculptures can add dimension and interest.
Mirrors: A decorative mirror can reflect light, making the kitchen feel larger and brighter.

Plants and Greenery

Adding plants can bring life and color to your kitchen.

Potted Plants: Small to medium-sized potted plants, like snake plants or ZZ plants, thrive in indirect light and can add a touch of nature.
Faux Greenery: If your space doesn’t get much natural light, high-quality faux plants are a great alternative.
Hanging Plants: Consider small hanging planters for a whimsical touch, but ensure they are secured safely.

Decorative Objects and Collectibles

This is the perfect place to showcase your favorite kitchen cabinet top decor.

Vases and Pottery: Attractive vases, ceramic pieces, or colorful pottery can add artistic flair.
Cookbooks and Recipe Boxes: Stack a few of your favorite cookbooks or display vintage recipe boxes.
Themed Decor: If you have a particular theme, like farmhouse or coastal, choose decor items that fit the style. Think antique kitchen tools, seashells, or decorative birds.
Seasonal Decorations: You can swap out decorative items seasonally. Think pumpkins and gourds in the fall, festive lights in winter, or floral arrangements in spring.

The Power of Kitchen Cabinet Crown Molding

For a more integrated and polished look, kitchen cabinet crown molding is an excellent choice. This architectural detail adds a touch of elegance and can make your cabinets appear taller and more substantial.

Benefits of Crown Molding:
- Seamless Transition: It bridges the gap between the cabinets and the ceiling, creating a smooth, finished appearance.
- Adds Sophistication: Crown molding provides a classic and refined look that can elevate the entire kitchen design.
- Hides Imperfections: It can cleverly conceal any unevenness or gaps between the cabinets and the ceiling.
- Reduces Dust Accumulation: By closing off the top, molding helps prevent dust from settling on top of cabinets, making cleaning easier.
Types of Crown Molding:
- Simple Trim: A basic, single piece of molding offers a clean and understated look.
- Multi-Piece Molding: More elaborate designs with multiple profiles can add a grander statement.
- Custom Molding: For a truly bespoke look, custom molding can be designed to match your kitchen’s style.

When choosing crown molding, consider the scale of your kitchen and the style of your cabinets. A simpler molding might be best for modern kitchens, while more detailed designs can suit traditional or transitional styles.

Styling Kitchen Cabinet Overhang: A Delicate Balance

Styling kitchen cabinet overhang refers to how you dress the visible edge or top of your cabinets, especially if there’s a slight overhang. This is less about the space above and more about the cabinetry itself. However, the items you place above can influence how the overhang is perceived.

Proportion is Key: Ensure the items you place above are proportionate to the cabinet size and the overhang. Overly large items can make the space feel cramped.
Visual Weight: Distribute visual weight evenly. Don’t cram all your items to one side.
Height Variation: Use items of varying heights to create visual interest. A tall vase next to a stack of books can be appealing.

Integrating Lighting Above Cabinets

Don’t forget the impact of lighting! Above cabinet lighting can dramatically change the ambiance of your kitchen.

LED Strip Lights: These are easy to install and provide a soft, ambient glow that highlights decorative items and creates a warm atmosphere. They are excellent for displaying items above cabinets in an attractive way.
Small Spotlights: Strategically placed spotlights can draw attention to specific decorative pieces.
Consider Task Lighting: If you are using the space for storage, ensure you have adequate lighting to see what you are storing.

Practicality Meets Aesthetics: What to Put Above Kitchen Cabinets

When deciding what to put above kitchen cabinets, it’s helpful to consider both the aesthetic you want to achieve and the practical needs of your household.

Frequently Used vs. Seldom-Used Items

Frequently Used Items: If you have items you use regularly but don’t want cluttering your countertops (e.g., extra cooking oils, small appliances), consider above cabinet storage ideas with easy access, like open shelves or bins with labels.
Seldom-Used Items: For items you only need occasionally (e.g., holiday serving dishes, large serving platters), closed storage like glass-fronted cabinets or decorative boxes is ideal.

Balancing Form and Function

The goal is to create a space that looks good and serves a purpose.

The “Rule of Three”: A common design principle is to group items in threes for a pleasing visual arrangement.
Texture and Color: Incorporate a variety of textures (e.g., ceramic, wood, metal) and colors to add depth and interest.
Negative Space: Don’t feel the need to fill every inch. Leaving some empty space allows the decorative items to stand out and prevents the area from looking cluttered.

Specific Ideas for Above Kitchen Cabinets

Here’s a breakdown of popular choices and their benefits:

Item Type	Purpose	Aesthetic Contribution	Considerations
Decorative Vases	Accent, visual interest	Adds color, shape, and height	Choose sizes that fit the space; consider materials.
Cookbooks	Storage, inspiration	Adds personality, color, and intellectual appeal	Stack them or use small bookends.
Potted Plants	Life, color, air purification	Brings nature indoors, adds freshness	Ensure adequate light or use faux plants.
Storage Baskets	Organizing smaller items, pantry overflow	Adds texture, hides clutter	Woven baskets for warmth, metal for modernity.
Picture Frames	Personalization, memories	Adds a personal touch, storytelling	Use lightweight frames; consider shatter-resistant glass.
Themed Decor	Showcasing interests, seasonal changes	Enhances kitchen style, creates a focal point	Keep it cohesive and avoid over-accessorizing.
Glass Jars	Storing dry goods, display of contents	Functional and decorative, shows off ingredients	Ensure lids seal well to keep contents fresh.
Decorative Bowls	Display, serving (occasionally)	Adds shape and elegance	Choose a material that complements your kitchen.
Small Sculptures	Artistic expression, unique accents	Adds dimension and character	Ensure they are stable and safely positioned.
LED Lighting Strips	Ambient lighting, highlighting decor	Creates mood, adds a professional finish	Easy to install, often dimmable.
Crown Molding	Architectural detail, finishing touch	Creates a seamless, sophisticated look, reduces dust	Can be DIY or professionally installed.

Creating a Cohesive Look: Kitchen Cabinet Top Decor Strategies

Achieving a beautiful and functional space above your cabinets requires a thoughtful approach to kitchen cabinet top decor.

The Role of Color and Texture

Color Palette: Choose items that either echo your kitchen’s existing color scheme or provide a pleasing contrast.
Material Mix: Combine different textures – smooth ceramic, rough wood, polished metal – to add visual depth and prevent the area from looking flat.
Layering: Don’t be afraid to layer items. A smaller decorative box placed in front of a stack of books can create a dynamic display.

Scale and Proportion in Design

The size of your kitchen and cabinets will dictate what works best.

Small Kitchens: Opt for fewer, more streamlined items. A single striking vase or a small set of coordinated baskets might be ideal.
Large Kitchens: You have more flexibility to use larger decorative pieces or create more elaborate arrangements. However, avoid overcrowding, which can make the space feel chaotic.
Height Considerations: If your ceilings are very high, you might need taller items or a tiered approach to fill the space effectively. Conversely, for lower ceilings, choose shorter, more compact decorative elements.

Avoiding the Clutter Trap

It’s easy for the space above cabinets to become a dumping ground for things you don’t know where else to put. To avoid this:

Edit Ruthlessly: Only display items you genuinely love or that serve a practical purpose.
Dust Regularly: This area is notorious for dust accumulation. Make it a habit to dust the items and the cabinet tops regularly.
Containment is Key: Use baskets, bins, or decorative boxes to keep smaller items neatly organized and out of sight.
Consider Doors or Glass: If the goal is primarily to hide clutter, cabinets with doors or glass fronts are superior to open shelves.

Matching Your Kitchen Style

Your kitchen cabinet top decor should complement your overall kitchen design.

Modern Kitchens: Think clean lines, minimalist objects, geometric shapes, and metallic finishes.
Farmhouse Kitchens: Incorporate rustic elements like woven baskets, antique kitchen tools, ceramic pieces, and natural wood accents.
Traditional Kitchens: Opt for classic decorative items, elegant vases, framed art, and potentially detailed crown molding.
Bohemian Kitchens: Embrace a more eclectic mix of colors, textures, and found objects.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the best way to clean the space above kitchen cabinets?

Regular dusting is essential. Use a microfiber duster with an extension handle, or a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment. For deeper cleaning of the cabinet tops themselves, use a damp cloth with a mild cleaner. If you have crown molding, dust it along with the cabinets.

Can I store food items above kitchen cabinets?

It’s generally not recommended to store food items like spices or grains directly above kitchen cabinets, especially in enclosed spaces without good ventilation. Heat and grease from cooking can affect food quality and attract pests. If you must store food, use airtight containers and place them inside closed cabinets or bins on shelves.

How high should shelves be placed above kitchen cabinets?

The height depends on the ceiling height and the items you plan to display or store. A common guideline is to leave 18-24 inches between the top of the cabinets and the ceiling for visual balance. If adding shelves, ensure there’s enough clearance for the items you’ll be placing on them and for accessing them easily.

Is it worth installing kitchen cabinet crown molding?

Yes, crown molding can significantly enhance the look of your kitchen by providing a finished, polished appearance. It makes cabinets look more substantial and custom, and it helps reduce dust collection. The cost can vary, but many homeowners find it a worthwhile investment for improving their kitchen’s aesthetics.

How do I choose the right decorative items for above cabinets?

Consider your kitchen’s style, your personal taste, and the overall color palette. Start with a few key pieces and build from there. Think about varying heights, textures, and materials. Don’t be afraid to experiment until you find a look you love.

Should the items above cabinets match the kitchen cabinets?

Not necessarily. While some coordination is good, your kitchen cabinet top decor can also be a place to introduce complementary colors or textures that add interest without clashing. The goal is harmony, not necessarily perfect matching.

Can I put lighting above my kitchen cabinets?

Absolutely! Above cabinet lighting, such as LED strips, is a popular and effective way to add ambiance to your kitchen. It highlights your decorative items and can make the space feel warmer and more inviting.

By thoughtfully considering above cabinet storage ideas, decorating kitchen cabinet tops, and potentially incorporating kitchen cabinet crown molding, you can transform a neglected area into a stylish and functional extension of your kitchen design. Remember to balance practicality with aesthetics and always consider the overall scale and style of your space.