Decorating Space Above Your Kitchen Cabinets

The space above kitchen cabinets is often overlooked as a decorating opportunity. However, with some creativity, this vertical real estate can be transformed into an eye-catching accent area. Decorating above your cabinets serves both form and function - adding visual interest while also providing extra storage solutions.

From choosing the right decor items to suit your style to clever storage solutions, we've got you covered on how to give this forgotten spot its time to shine.

Taking Measurements

Before decorating, it's important to measure the space above your cabinets accurately. This allows you to choose pieces that fit the parameters and utilize every inch. Consider the following measurements:

• Depth - Measure from wall to cabinet front
• Width - Width of total cabinet run
• Height - Floor to ceiling height minus cabinet height

Be sure to account for necessary clearances around lighting fixtures and ventilation hoods. It's also smart to measure section-by-section rather than just the total width. This allows you to break up decor into attractive groupings rather than cramming everything onto one long surface.

Choosing Decor Items

When selecting decor, stick to pieces sized appropriately to fit the allotted space without overwhelming it. Some go-to items include:

• Plates, platters, bowls
• Artwork, mirrors, photos
• Sculptures, vases, candles
• Faux plants, flowers, greenery
• Collectibles like snow globes
• Baskets, boxes for storage

For open cabinets, focus on pieces you'd like to showcase. Closed cabinet tops allow for flexible storage solutions. Mix colors, textures, sizes and shapes for visual interest.

Decorating Open Cabinets

For kitchens with visible shelving above the cabinets, it's all about creating an eye-catching display. The right decor transforms your functional storage into a bonafide accent area. Some ideas include:

• Platters or serving pieces create quick color.
• Contemporary sculptures make a unique statement.
• Woven baskets bring warmth. Label by contents.
• A macrame or faux botanical hanging plant softens the space.
• Floating shelves corral small collectibles.
• Fun accent lighting casts a glow on special pieces.

Edit down to favorites you love seeing daily. Aim for complementary colors and asymmetry. If cabinets have doors, prop them open to showcase insides.

Decorating Enclosed Cabinets

For closed cabinet tops, decor takes on a more utility role. Use the space for frequently-used items or seasonal displays. Ideas include:

• Baskets under a heat lamp for proofing bread.
• groupings of themed canisters and cubbies.
• Fiesta ware platters for festive flare.
• Pantry overflow of extra baking sheets.
• Holiday platters and serving pieces.
• Vases, frame photos when not in use.

If cabinet doors impede access, remove them. For those keeping doors, try open-backed cabinetry, glass fronts or under-cabinet lighting to illuminate contents.

Themes and Styles

Match your above-cabinet decor to your kitchen's style for harmony. Or, purposely contrast with an unexpected pop of color or texture. Ideas include:

Farmhouse Kitchen

• Woven baskets with fresh produce.
• Glass bottled oils, vinegars & spices.
• Clustered green botanicals.
• A hanging "EAT" kitchen sign in a vintage-inspired font.
• Lined-up pottery crocks, mason jars.

Modern Kitchen

• Geometric glassware or display objects.
• Accent art in bold splashes of color.
• Pantone-inspired storage canisters.
• Lighting fixture over a sleek sculpture.
• Clustered plants around a decorative planter.

Design Tips

Follow these design pointers when planning your above-kitchen cabinet decor:

• Decide if cabinets doors stay or go - visibility is key.
• Incorporate lighting like puck lights or rope lighting.
• Add compartments like cubbies for organizing items.
• Keep highest shelves for lesser-used objects.
• Mix colors, textures and shapes for interest.
• Display items both vertically and horizontally.
• Refresh decor to reflect changing seasons.

Remember to step back periodically and view your decor from all angles. Ensure your cabinet-top vignettes enhance - not hinder - the overall kitchen design.

Incorporating Greenery

Incorporating plants is an easy way to freshen up your above cabinet decor. Bring life to the space with these ideas:

• Trail small succulent plants along the cabinet edge.
• Set a hanging basket of flowers near open shelves.
• Suspend air plants in geometric terrariums.
• Attach a self-watering vertical planter on the cabinet side.
• Display potted herbs in macrame or rattan holders.

Fake plants also work. Go for realistic looking greens in neutral planters. Pro Tip: Use command hooks to display plants sans water stains.

Personalization

For a meaningful touch, add personalized elements like:

• Photo ledges displaying cherished family shots
• Collections of kids' custom artwork
• Shelves lined with favorite cookbooks
• Sentimental souvenirs from travels
• Monogrammed canisters or dishware

This space offers the creative freedom to showcase mementos. Collections rotated seasonally keep the display fresh and ever-evolving.

Preventing Dust Build Up

When decorating enclosed cabinets, dust can become an issue. Here are some tips to limit grime buildup:

• Take cabinet doors off to improve air flow and access.
• Use washable baskets instead of open bowls.
• Keep high-traffic items separate from open decor.
• Wipe down cabinets every few weeks with a microfiber cloth.
• Use museum wax to adhere down loose decor items.

Prevention is key for cutting back on dusting. Design your arrangement accordingly to minimize effort.

The space above kitchen cabinets offers unique decorative potential. With the right scale and style of accent pieces, matched to your kitchen design, this forgotten area can take center stage.

Maximize cabinets to the ceiling for prime decor real estate. Outfit with personalized mementos or frequently-used gadgets. When designed creatively, your kitchen cabinet tops transform into an artistic, unexpected showpiece full of possibilities.