What to put on top of kitchen cabinets? Many things can be placed there, from decorative items to practical storage. Decorating the top of kitchen cabinets, often an overlooked space, can transform your kitchen’s overall aesthetic and functionality. This area, sometimes referred to as above cabinet decor, provides a canvas for personal style and can even offer clever kitchen cabinet storage solutions. Let’s explore chic ideas for kitchen cabinet top styling.
Why Decorate Above Kitchen Cabinets?
The space above kitchen cabinets can easily become a dust-collecting zone or simply a blank expanse. However, with a little creativity, it can become a focal point. Decorating kitchen cabinet tops adds personality, makes the kitchen feel more finished, and can even enhance the perceived height of your cabinets. It’s a way to extend your kitchen’s style beyond the practical elements of cabinetry.
Enhancing Aesthetics
- Visual Interest: Adds depth and character to the kitchen.
- Completing the Look: Makes the kitchen feel more curated and designed.
- Personality Expression: Allows you to showcase your style and interests.
Practical Benefits
- Storage: Can house less frequently used items.
- Illusion of Height: Can make lower ceilings appear taller.
- Hiding Imperfections: Can conceal gaps between cabinets and ceiling.
Getting Started: Planning Your Decor
Before diving into specific items, it’s crucial to plan. Consider your kitchen’s overall style, the height of your cabinets, and how much visual clutter you’re comfortable with.
Assessing Your Space
- Cabinet Height: Are your cabinets standard height, or do they reach the ceiling? This will influence the scale of the items you choose.
- Kitchen Style: Modern, farmhouse, traditional, bohemian? Your decor should complement your existing style.
- Lighting: Is the space well-lit? Natural light and good artificial lighting will make your decor pop.
- Accessibility: How easy is it to reach the top of your cabinets? This is important if you plan to store or frequently access items.
Choosing a Theme or Style
- Cohesive Collection: Group similar items or items with a shared color palette.
- Seasonal Swaps: Change out decor for holidays or seasons.
- Minimalist Approach: Opt for a few impactful pieces rather than many small ones.
Chic Decorating Kitchen Cabinet Tops: Ideas and Inspiration
Here are some popular and stylish ways to decorate the top of your kitchen cabinets, covering various tastes and needs.
1. Decorative Kitchen Cabinet Tops with Plants
Plants bring life and color into any space. Faux plants are a great low-maintenance option for above cabinets, especially if natural light is limited.
Live Plants
- Requirements: Good light source, willingness to water.
- Good Choices: Snake plants, ZZ plants, Pothos (trailing varieties can cascade down).
- Pots: Choose attractive pots that match your kitchen’s style. Consider ceramic, terracotta, or metallic finishes.
Faux Plants
- Benefits: No watering, no mess, always look good.
- Realistic Options: Look for plants with varied textures and colors.
- Arrangement: Mix different types of faux plants for a more natural look.
Faux Plant Arrangement Tips
- Vary Heights: Place taller plants towards the back and shorter ones in front.
- Trailing Plants: Let them spill over the edges for a lush effect.
- Groupings: Cluster 2-3 plants together for a more substantial display.
2. Kitchen Cabinet Display Ideas with Collections
If you have a hobby or a collection, the top of your cabinets is a prime spot to showcase it.
Ceramic or Pottery Collections
- Style: Can range from rustic farmhouse pitchers to sleek modern vases.
- Arrangement: Display pieces of varying sizes and shapes, perhaps in a monochromatic or complementary color scheme.
Vintage Finds
- Examples: Old enamelware, antique tins, retro kitchen gadgets.
- Charm: Adds a nostalgic and unique touch to your kitchen.
Glassware and Barware
- Elegance: Showcase colorful or decorative glass bottles, decanters, or antique jars.
- Consideration: Ensure they are stable and not prone to tipping.
Displaying Collections: A Guide
| Collection Type | Best Display Methods | Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| Ceramics/Pottery | Group by color, size, or style. Use varying heights. | Ensure pieces are stable and dust-resistant. |
| Vintage Items | Mix and match textures and eras. Use unique pieces as focal points. | Clean items thoroughly. Check for lead paint. |
| Glassware | Place near a light source to catch the light. Group by color. | Avoid placing very tall or unstable items. |
| Books | Stack horizontally or vertically. Use vintage cookbooks. | Ensure stacks are secure and not too high. |
3. Lighting Above Cabinets
Integrated lighting or strategically placed decorative lighting can dramatically change the mood of your kitchen.
Strip Lights (LED)
- Placement: Along the front edge of the cabinet tops.
- Effect: Creates a soft, ambient glow that washes down the wall, highlighting the decor above.
- Type: Choose dimmable, warm white LEDs for a cozy feel.
Decorative Lamps or Lanterns
- Style: Small, stylish table lamps or decorative lanterns can add a whimsical touch.
- Power Source: Battery-operated or plug-in options are available. Ensure cords are managed neatly.
4. Kitchen Cabinet Storage Solutions: Practical Decor
Sometimes, the most stylish decor is also functional.
Attractive Baskets and Bins
- Use: Store less-used kitchen items like seasonal bakeware, extra linens, or specialty ingredients.
- Materials: Woven baskets (seagrass, rattan), wire baskets, or decorative fabric bins.
- Coordination: Choose baskets that complement your kitchen’s color scheme and materials.
Decorative Jars and Canisters
- Function: Store items like flour, sugar, or pasta, or simply act as decorative elements.
- Materials: Glass, ceramic, or metal.
- Stacking: Stack larger canisters neatly for visual appeal and efficient use of space.
Trays for Grouping
- Purpose: Use a decorative tray to group smaller items together, creating a tidy and intentional display.
- Materials: Wood, metal, or ceramic.
5. Art and Wall Decor
Extend your kitchen’s artwork or decorative elements to the cabinet tops.
Small Framed Art or Photos
- Style: Choose prints or photos that match your kitchen’s theme.
- Arrangement: Lean them against the wall or stand them on small easels.
Decorative Wall Hangings
- Examples: Small macrame hangings, metal wall art, or decorative plates.
- Placement: Securely attach them to the wall above the cabinets.
6. Kitchen Cabinet Molding Decoration and Cornice Ideas
If your cabinets have a gap above them, consider decorative elements that bridge this space, creating a more finished look.
Crown Molding
- Effect: Gives cabinets a more custom, built-in appearance and can add architectural interest.
- Style: Simple or ornate molding can be chosen to match the kitchen’s style.
Decorative Cornices
- Purpose: Similar to molding, cornices can add a decorative flourish and hide the tops of cabinets for a cleaner look.
- Options: Can be simple wooden trim or more elaborate carved designs.
Kitchen Cabinet Cornice Ideas
- Simple Trim: A basic piece of trim can soften the transition to the ceiling.
- Profiled Molding: Choose molding with a decorative profile for a more sophisticated look.
- Built-in Shelving: In some cases, you can add shallow shelves as part of the cornice.
7. Themed Displays
Bring a specific theme to life above your cabinets.
Baking Theme
- Items: Vintage rolling pins, decorative mixing bowls, cookie cutters, or themed artwork.
Coffee or Tea Station
- Items: Decorative mugs, vintage teapots, or framed coffee quotes.
Seasonal Decor
- Fall: Mini pumpkins, gourds, autumn-colored leaves, warm-toned baskets.
- Winter: Faux snow-dusted greenery, miniature ornaments, cozy lanterns.
- Spring: Pastel-colored ceramics, faux floral arrangements, light greenery.
- Summer: Brightly colored pottery, seashells, nautical-themed items.
8. Minimalist Approach: Less is More
Sometimes, the most chic approach is to keep it simple.
A Few Statement Pieces
- Impact: Choose one or two visually interesting items that stand out.
- Examples: A striking sculpture, a large decorative vase, or a pair of elegant candle holders.
Focus on Texture and Form
- Simplicity: Use items with interesting textures or shapes, even if they are neutral in color.
- Examples: Smooth stone pieces, textured pottery, or woven elements.
Tips for Successful Kitchen Cabinet Top Styling
Balancing Visual Weight
- Symmetry: Place identical items on either side of a central piece for balance.
- Asymmetry: Use items of different sizes and shapes, but ensure the overall visual weight feels balanced.
Dust Management
- Frequency: Be prepared to dust these surfaces regularly.
- Low-Dust Items: Opt for items with smooth surfaces or use enclosed containers.
- Faux Plants: Wipe down faux plants periodically with a damp cloth.
Safety First
- Stability: Ensure all items are placed securely and won’t easily fall, especially in earthquake-prone areas or if you have children or pets.
- Weight: Avoid placing excessively heavy items, especially on older cabinets or if they are not securely mounted.
- Fire Hazards: Keep flammable items away from heat sources.
Scale and Proportion
- Cabinet Height: Taller cabinets can handle larger or more numerous items. Shorter cabinets benefit from smaller, more delicate pieces.
- Room Size: Don’t overwhelm a small kitchen with too much large decor.
Maintaining a Clean Look
- Declutter: Regularly review your display and remove items that no longer fit or feel cluttered.
- Repetition: Repeating colors or shapes can create a sense of order.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Is it okay to put things on top of kitchen cabinets?
A: Yes, it’s perfectly fine to put things on top of kitchen cabinets. It’s a common practice for both decorative purposes and practical storage.
Q: What are some popular items for decorating kitchen cabinet tops?
A: Popular items include plants (real or faux), decorative baskets, ceramic pieces, vintage finds, framed artwork, and even lighting.
Q: How high should my cabinets be to decorate the top?
A: Cabinets of any height can be decorated. For very tall cabinets, you might opt for larger or fewer items to maintain scale, while shorter cabinets can accommodate smaller, more delicate pieces.
Q: How do I keep the decor on top of my cabinets clean?
A: Regular dusting is key. You can also opt for items that are easier to wipe down, like smooth ceramics or faux plants. Consider using trays to group smaller items, making them easier to dust.
Q: Can I use the space above my cabinets for storage?
A: Absolutely! Attractive baskets, decorative bins, or stackable canisters are excellent for storing less-frequently used items while adding to the decor.
Q: What if there’s a gap between my cabinets and the ceiling?
A: You can fill this gap with decorative items, install crown molding or decorative cornice, or even add shallow shelving for display or storage. This also helps in hiding dust accumulation in hard-to-reach areas.
By considering these chic ideas and practical tips, you can transform the often-neglected space above your kitchen cabinets into a stylish and functional extension of your home’s personality. Experiment with different combinations to find what best suits your kitchen and your taste.