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4 Tips for Decorating Above Kitchen Cabinets

Written by MasterClass

Last updated: Nov 25, 2021 • 2 min read

Give your kitchen an easy makeover with simple DIY decor ideas for the space above your kitchen cabinets.

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How Do Decorate Above Kitchen Cabinets

Take advantage of the empty space on top of your cabinets with these kitchen cabinet decor ideas.

  1. 1. Add greenery. Plants make great kitchen decor. Low-light plants such as succulents and pathos plants are ideal. If you don't have a green thumb, consider using faux plants instead.
  2. 2. Organize your cookbook collection. Make room on your countertops by moving your cookbooks above your upper cabinets. The colorful spines of the books will add a pop of color and free up counter space.
  3. 3. Add stylish extra storage. Woven baskets, milk crates, and vintage wooden boxes look stylish while also providing extra storage for kitchen linens and pantry goods.
  4. 4. Fill small spaces with crown molding. Some kitchen cabinets are designed with an awkward space above them that doesn't allow enough room for home decor. In this case, it's best to opt for crown molding. Moldings add visual interest and will make your kitchen look complete.
  5. 5. Decorate with glassware. Arrange glass pitchers and vases of various sizes on top of your cabinets. This is a particularly useful design idea if your kitchen has high ceilings. Oversized vases reach upwards, filling empty space and adding visual interest.
  6. 6. Display wall art. Lean an art print or framed photo against the wall above kitchen cabinetry. If you have the space for it, install a gallery wall of your favorite prints and photos.
  7. 7. Add custom built-in cabinetry. Most cabinets are sold in standard sizes, which can lead to large gaps between the tops of the cabinet and the ceiling. If you need additional kitchen storage, installing built-in storage space above your cabinets is a great option.

4 Tips for Decorating Above Kitchen Cabinets

Consider these kitchen cabinet ideas to help elevate your kitchen design.

  1. 1. Choose a decor theme. Think of ways to complement the existing style of your kitchen. For example, old-school milk crates add extra storage and a touch of nostalgia to a retro kitchen. Rustic signs and vintage metal accents will accent the farmhouse kitchen look.
  2. 2. Create contrast. When picking out your kitchen decor, aim to include pieces that will stand out against your wall color. A white kitchen provides a blank slate for colorful decor to shine, while dark kitchen walls provide a perfect backdrop for bright, white ceramic pieces and artwork in white frames.
  3. 3. Install open shelving. If your kitchen doesn't have upper cabinets, or if you're looking to get rid of them, install open shelving instead. Kitchen shelves are perfect for displaying plates, glassware, and food canisters.
  4. 4. Reduce clutter. Too much going on on the walls and above the cabinets can make a small kitchen feel even smaller. Go for minimalist decor or cohesive storage solutions if you're working with a small space.

Ready to Give Your Space a Chic Update?

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