Yes, you can absolutely decorate above your kitchen cabinets! It’s a fantastic way to add personality, style, and even extra storage to your kitchen, transforming a often-neglected space into a focal point. This guide will walk you through a variety of stylish solutions for decorating over kitchen cabinets, offering creative kitchen storage solutions and enhancing kitchen cabinet space.
Why Decorate Above Kitchen Cabinets?
The space above kitchen cabinets is prime real estate for adding flair to your kitchen. It’s often an overlooked area that can collect dust and appear unfinished. By thoughtfully decorating this zone, you can:
- Boost Kitchen Aesthetics: Elevate your kitchen’s overall look with carefully chosen décor.
- Inject Personality: Showcase your style through art, collections, or functional items.
- Increase Visual Height: Draw the eye upward, making the kitchen feel larger and more open.
- Add Storage: Utilize the space for practical, out-of-the-way storage.
- Create a Cohesive Look: Tie together your kitchen’s color scheme and design theme.
Fathoming the Space: What to Put Above Kitchen Cabinets?
Deciding what to put above kitchen cabinets involves considering your kitchen’s style, the available space, and your personal preferences. Here are some popular and effective options:
1. Decorative Items
This is perhaps the most common approach. Think about items that complement your kitchen’s theme and color palette.
Vases and Pottery:
* **Pros:** Adds color and texture, can be used in various styles. * **Cons:** Can collect dust easily if not cleaned regularly. * **Tips:** Group similar styles or colors. Consider tall, slender vases for vertical appeal.
Baskets and Trays:
* **Pros:** Excellent for adding natural texture and can also serve a functional purpose for storing lighter items. * **Cons:** Can sometimes look cluttered if too many are used. * **Tips:** Woven baskets or decorative metal trays work well.
Artificial Plants and Flowers:
* **Pros:** Adds greenery without the need for maintenance. * **Cons:** Can look artificial if not high quality. * **Tips:** Opt for realistic-looking faux plants like faux eucalyptus, ferns, or trailing ivy.
Sculptures and Figurines:
* **Pros:** Can be a true statement piece and express personal interests. * **Cons:** Needs to align with your kitchen’s style to avoid looking out of place. * **Tips:** Choose items that are not too delicate or prone to breaking.
Candles (Unlit for Safety):
* **Pros:** Add a warm, inviting glow (even unlit). * **Cons:** Must be decorative and not functional due to fire safety. * **Tips:** Group pillar candles of varying heights.
2. Kitchen Wall Art Above Cabinets
This is a fantastic way to add color and personality.
Framed Prints or Paintings:
* **Pros:** Versatile, can match any theme, easy to swap out. * **Cons:** Frames can add to the dust-collecting surface. * **Tips:** Consider kitchen-themed prints, abstract art, or landscapes. Use lightweight frames.
Metal Wall Art:
* **Pros:** Modern, durable, and easy to clean. * **Cons:** Can be heavy. * **Tips:** Look for pieces with interesting textures or silhouettes.
Gallery Wall:
* **Pros:** Creates a curated, personal feel. * **Cons:** Requires careful planning to avoid looking too busy. * **Tips:** Mix framed art with other decorative elements like small shelves.
3. Creative Kitchen Storage Solutions
The space above cabinets is perfect for storing items you don’t need daily but want accessible.
Decorative Baskets and Boxes:
* **Pros:** Hides clutter, adds texture, easy to grab items from. * **Cons:** Need to ensure items fit within the boxes. * **Tips:** Use matching baskets for a unified look. Label them if storing useful items.
Glass Jars:
* **Pros:** Visually appealing, can store dry goods like pasta, rice, or beans. * **Cons:** Needs to be aesthetically pleasing to store items openly. * **Tips:** Use uniform jars for a clean look.
Open Shelving:
* **Pros:** Easy access, can display beautiful dishes or cookbooks. * **Cons:** Items are visible, so they need to be kept tidy. * **Tips:** Install sturdy shelves. Mix practical items with decorative pieces.
4. Lighting
Adding subtle lighting can dramatically change the ambiance.
LED Strip Lights:
* **Pros:** Creates a warm, ambient glow, can highlight décor. * **Cons:** Requires a power source and some DIY installation. * **Tips:** Use dimmable lights for adjustable ambiance.
Pendant Lights (if ceiling height allows):
* **Pros:** Can be a stylish statement piece, adds task lighting. * **Cons:** Requires professional installation and careful consideration of ceiling height. * **Tips:** Ensure they don’t obstruct movement or views.
5. Functional Items with Decorative Flair
Sometimes, the most stylish solutions are also the most practical.
Cookbooks:
* **Pros:** Adds a scholarly, inviting feel, keeps favorite recipes handy. * **Cons:** Can look cluttered if not arranged neatly. * **Tips:** Stack a few appealing cookbooks or arrange them vertically.
Serving Platters and Trays:
* **Pros:** Adds a touch of elegance, can be easily accessed for entertaining. * **Cons:** Can be bulky. * **Tips:** Lean larger platters against the wall.
Kitchen Cabinet Styling Ideas: Achieving a Cohesive Look
The key to successful decorating above kitchen cabinets is to create a look that feels intentional and harmonious with the rest of your kitchen.
Balancing the Visual Weight
- Symmetry: Placing identical items on either side of a central element creates a sense of calm and order.
- Asymmetry: Staggering items of different sizes and shapes can create a more dynamic and visually interesting display.
- Color Palette: Stick to a limited color palette that complements your kitchen’s existing colors.
Considering the Cabinet Style
- Traditional Kitchens: Think classic vases, antique-style baskets, or framed botanical prints.
- Modern Kitchens: Opt for clean lines, geometric shapes, minimalist sculptures, or sleek metal art.
- Farmhouse Kitchens: Incorporate galvanized metal, woven baskets, wooden signs, or ceramic pitchers.
The Role of Scale and Proportion
- Tall Ceilings: You can afford to use larger or taller decorative items to fill the vertical space.
- Lower Ceilings: Stick to smaller, lighter items to avoid making the space feel claustrophobic. Avoid items that reach the ceiling unless you have a significant amount of space.
Decorating Over Kitchen Cabinets: Practical Tips and Tricks
Here are some actionable tips to make your above-cabinet decorating a success.
1. Cleanliness First!
Before you add any décor, ensure the cabinet tops are thoroughly cleaned. This is a prime spot for grease and dust.
2. Measure Twice, Place Once
Measure the height and depth of your cabinet tops to ensure your chosen décor will fit and won’t overwhelm the space. Consider the visual impact from different angles in the kitchen.
3. Elevate Your Items
- Risers: Use small boxes, books, or specialized risers to elevate certain items, adding depth and visual interest. This is especially useful for creating tiered displays.
- Wall Mounts: For lighter items like small shelves or art, consider wall mounts that can add a professional finish.
4. Grouping and Layering
- Rule of Threes: Odd numbers of items often look more appealing. Grouping three items of varying heights and textures is a classic styling technique.
- Layering: Place larger items at the back and smaller items in front to create depth.
5. Don’t Forget Lighting
As mentioned earlier, subtle lighting can transform the space. Consider battery-operated, remote-controlled LED lights for easy installation and control.
6. Safety First
- Weight Distribution: Ensure that heavier items are placed securely.
- Fire Safety: Never place flammable items near heat sources or in a way that could pose a fire hazard. Unlit decorative candles are a safe option.
- Stability: Make sure items are stable and won’t easily fall.
Shelf Ideas Above Kitchen Cabinets: Enhancing Kitchen Cabinet Space
Open shelves above kitchen cabinets offer both aesthetic appeal and practical storage.
Types of Shelving
- Floating Shelves: These offer a clean, modern look as the brackets are hidden. They are perfect for displaying decorative items or a few essential cookbooks.
- Brackets Shelves: More traditional, these shelves have visible brackets that can be chosen to match your kitchen hardware. They are generally sturdier for heavier items.
- Picture Ledges: These are shallow shelves designed to hold framed items, making it easy to create a rotating art display.
What to Display on Shelves
- Cookbooks: Stack a few or arrange them vertically.
- Decorative Jars: Fill with colorful dry goods like pasta, beans, or spices.
- Small Plants or Faux Greenery: Adds a touch of life.
- Ceramics and Pottery: Display attractive bowls, mugs, or pitchers.
- Small Kitchen Appliances: If you have a particularly stylish mixer or toaster, it can be a decorative element.
- Framed Photos or Art: Personalize the space.
Kitchen Wall Art Above Cabinets: Creating a Focal Point
Art can be a powerful tool for transforming the often-empty space above kitchen cabinets.
Choosing the Right Art
- Theme: Consider kitchen-themed art, still life, landscapes, or abstract pieces.
- Color: Select colors that complement your kitchen’s color scheme.
- Size: The art should be proportionate to the space above your cabinets. Too small, and it will get lost; too large, and it can feel overwhelming.
Displaying Art Effectively
- Framing: Choose frames that match your kitchen’s style. Floater frames can give a modern look to canvas prints.
- Gallery Wall: Mix and match smaller pieces for a curated look.
- Single Statement Piece: A large, impactful piece can draw the eye and create a strong focal point.
- Leaning Art: For a more casual look, lean framed art against the wall.
Kitchen Cabinet Backsplash Alternatives and Above Cabinet Decor
While a backsplash is typically found between cabinets and countertops, the concept of adding decorative or functional elements extends to the area above cabinets. Think of the area above cabinets as an extension of your kitchen’s overall design.
- Wall Paneling: Consider decorative wall panels (like beadboard or shiplap) that extend upwards from the cabinets for a textural element.
- Wallpaper: Kitchen-specific wallpaper can add a pop of color and pattern.
- Paint: A contrasting paint color or a mural can be a simple yet effective way to decorate.
DIY Above Cabinet Decor: Personal Touches
If you’re crafty, there are many DIY options to personalize your space.
DIY Ideas
- Painted Signs: Create custom wooden signs with kitchen quotes or family names.
- Decorated Boxes/Baskets: Purchase plain baskets or boxes and decorate them with paint, fabric, or stencils.
- DIY Wall Art: Paint your own abstract art on canvas or create a unique collage.
- Crafted Shelves: Build simple shelves from wood and paint or stain them to match your décor.
Creative Kitchen Storage Solutions: Maximizing Every Inch
Beyond just looking good, the space above cabinets can be highly functional.
Smart Storage Ideas
- Stackable Bins: Use stackable bins or boxes to store lesser-used kitchen items like seasonal serving dishes, special occasion cookware, or extra linens.
- Clear Containers: For dry goods, clear, labeled containers look tidy and make it easy to see what you have.
- Tiered Shelving Units: If you have a lot of space, a narrow tiered shelving unit can hold multiple items efficiently.
Enhancing Kitchen Cabinet Space Through Overhead Solutions
The area above cabinets isn’t directly part of your cabinet space, but smart decorating and storage here enhances the overall usability and feel of your kitchen cabinetry. By making this area visually appealing and potentially functional, you draw attention to your cabinets and create a more organized and stylish environment.
Table 1: Decorating Options Above Kitchen Cabinets
| Decor Type | Description | Best For | Considerations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Decorative Items | Vases, pottery, baskets, sculptures, artificial plants, unlit candles. | Adding color, texture, and personality. | Dust accumulation, scale, ensuring items match kitchen style. |
| Kitchen Wall Art | Framed prints, paintings, metal art, gallery walls. | Creating focal points, adding personality and color. | Size, framing, content of art, ease of cleaning. |
| Decorative Baskets/Boxes | Woven baskets, storage boxes, attractive jars. | Hiding clutter, adding texture, storing dry goods or lighter items. | Matching aesthetic, ensuring items fit, ease of access. |
| Open Shelving | Floating shelves, bracket shelves, picture ledges. | Displaying items, providing accessible storage. | Tidy arrangement, sturdiness for heavier items, cleaning visibility. |
| Lighting | LED strip lights, pendant lights (if suitable). | Creating ambiance, highlighting décor, adding visual appeal. | Power source, installation, safety, ceiling height. |
| Functional Decor | Cookbooks, serving platters, decorative canisters. | Combining practicality with aesthetics. | Neat arrangement, space utilization, ease of access. |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: How high should items be placed above kitchen cabinets?
There’s no strict rule, but aim for a balance. Items should be visible and accessible without feeling too high or making the ceiling seem lower. Generally, placing items so they don’t quite touch the ceiling is a good rule of thumb, leaving some breathing room.
Q2: How do I clean items placed above kitchen cabinets?
Regular dusting is essential. For items that can be washed, like ceramic vases, take them down periodically for a more thorough clean. For hard-to-reach items, a long-handled duster or a vacuum with a brush attachment can be helpful.
Q3: Can I use real plants above my kitchen cabinets?
If you have good natural light and are committed to watering and care, real plants can add a lovely touch. However, consider the practicality: they can be messy with soil and require regular attention. High-quality faux plants are often a more convenient choice for this area.
Q4: What if I have very little space above my cabinets?
Even a small gap can be enhanced. Consider a single, elegant vase, a small piece of framed art that leans against the wall, or a few decorative books stacked neatly. The goal is to add a subtle touch, not to overwhelm the space.
Q5: Should the décor above my cabinets match my kitchen exactly?
Not necessarily. While it should complement your kitchen’s style and color palette, the area above cabinets is a great place to introduce a slightly different texture or accent color that ties the whole room together. It can be a space for a bit more personal expression.