How to Decorate Above Kitchen Cabinets: A Complete Guide
At a Glance: The empty space above kitchen cabinets can be decorated using a combination of faux plants, decorative vases, vintage items, or themed collections that match your kitchen’s style. Choose decorative items that complement your kitchen’s color scheme and maintain proper scale while avoiding cluttered arrangements to create visual interest.
That space between your upper kitchen cabinets and ceiling presents an exciting opportunity to add personality to your cooking space. This often-overlooked blank space can become a stunning focal point that ties your entire kitchen design together. Whether you have a modern farmhouse kitchen cabinetry or a sleek contemporary space with clean lines, the right decorative touches above your cabinets can elevate the room’s overall appeal.
In this guide, you’ll discover practical ways to transform that blank canvas above your cabinet top into an eye-catching display. We’ll walk through
- Selecting the right decorative elements
- Arranging them effectively
- Maintaining proper proportions
You’ll learn how to coordinate with your existing kitchen style, work within different heights (including tall cabinets and higher ceilings), and create displays that look polished rather than cluttered. By the end, you’ll have all the tools needed to style this space with confidence.
Planning Your Above-Cabinet Design
Before adding decorative objects above your kitchen cabinets, careful planning helps create a cohesive look that complements your space.
Measuring
Start by taking precise measurements of the available vertical space above your upper cabinets. You’ll want to measure both the height from the cabinet top to the ceiling and the depth of the cabinet’s upper surface. Most standard kitchens have 12-24 inches of space above kitchen cabinetry, but your measurements might vary. Remember to factor in any crown molding or existing fixtures that might affect your decorating space.
When measuring, consider different viewing angles. Decor items placed above upper kitchen cabinets will be seen from below, so position yourself at various points in your kitchen to understand how decorative objects will look from different perspectives. The ideal viewing distance is typically 6-8 feet away from the cabinets.
Existing Style
Your kitchen design should guide your decorative choices.
- Modern kitchens work well with clean lines and minimal arrangements, featuring metallic accents or geometric shapes for a modern look.
- Traditional spaces can handle more ornate pieces like ceramic vases from a thrift store or vintage items.
- Farmhouse styles welcome decorative baskets or antique cooking tools
- Contemporary designs benefit from bold art pieces or sculptural elements that add visual interest.
Consider Scale & Proportion
Scale and proportion play a major role in successful above-cabinet decor. As a general rule, decorative items should take up about two-thirds of the available height space. For depth, keep smaller items within the front two-thirds of the cabinet top to prevent a crowded appearance. When arranging multiple pieces in different sizes, vary their heights but maintain a balanced look by keeping taller items toward the center of the arrangements.
Lighting
Lighting dramatically impacts how your kitchen decor appears. Take note of natural light sources and how they affect your space throughout the day. North-facing kitchens might need additional lighting to highlight decorative elements. Consider adding strip lights or small spotlights above cabinets to create ambiance and draw attention to your carefully chosen pieces, especially if you have high ceilings in your kitchen.
Decorative Elements and Options
Greenery and Plants
Adding artifical plants and greenery above upper kitchen cabinets can introduce natural beauty and life to your kitchen space.
- Faux greenery offers worry-free decorative elements, maintaining their appearance year-round without watering or sunlight. Fake greenery can look remarkably realistic while requiring zero maintenance.
- For real plants, consider low-maintenance options like pothos or snake plants if your cabinet tops receive indirect light.
When arranging plants, vary heights and textures by mixing trailing plants with upright varieties, and group them in odd numbers for visual interest.
Artistic Pieces
Decorative objects and artwork can create stunning displays above kitchen cabinetry.
- Large decorative vases in neutral tones work well as anchor pieces, while smaller items can fill spaces between larger elements.
- Stone or metal sculptures add dimensional interest and personal touch.
- Decorative baskets bring warmth and texture, especially when arranged in graduated sizes or mixed with other materials.
Collectibles and Themed Items
Vintage pieces like antique copper pots or classic ceramics can establish a distinctive kitchen decor above cabinets.
- When displaying favorite items or collections, group similar objects together – like painted pottery or glass jars – to create a cohesive look.
- Rotate seasonal decor throughout the year, such as harvest-themed items in fall or bright coastal pieces for summer, to keep your space fresh and current.
Practical Tips
Select decor items that won’t trap excessive dust, like smooth-surfaced vases or sealed decorative pieces. Glass and glazed ceramics are particularly easy to clean with a quick wipe. Consider using faux plants or preserved botanicals that don’t need frequent maintenance. Position items slightly away from the cabinet edge to reduce dust accumulation, and plan monthly cleaning sessions to keep your display looking polished.
Design Principles and Arrangements
When decorating upper kitchen cabinets, following established design principles helps create displays that look polished and intentional.
Color Scheme
Start by considering your kitchen’s existing color palette.
- Pull colors from your backsplash, countertops, or kitchen cabinetry finish to maintain a cohesive look.
- For visual interest, introduce one or two accent colors through decorative objects, but limit bold colors to 20% of your display to avoid overwhelming the space.
Your kitchen’s color scheme should remain harmonious even with new decorative additions.
Visual Depth
Creating visual interest relies on thoughtful arrangement of decor items at different heights. Position taller items like vases or pitchers toward the back of the cabinet top, with medium-height pieces in the middle, and smaller items in front. This layering technique draws the eye naturally through the display. When selecting focal points, choose 2-3 decorative elements that stand out through size, color, or unique design.
Rule of Thirds
The rule of thirds helps achieve balanced arrangements.
- Divide your cabinet top space into three sections horizontally and vertically.
- Place important elements at these intersection points for maximum visual impact.
- For symmetrical displays, mirror identical or similar items on either side of a centerpiece.
- Asymmetrical groupings work well too – balance larger items on one side with several smaller pieces on the other.
Pro Tips
- Professional stylists recommend leaving about 25% of the empty space to prevent a cluttered look.
- Group similar decorative items in odd numbers (3, 5, or 7) for more appealing compositions.
- Add depth by placing some items slightly forward or back rather than in a straight line.
- Consider the perfect place for extra storage by using decorative baskets to hold seasonal items or rarely-used kitchen tools.
- To accommodate small space kitchens, choose decor with appropriate scale to avoid overwhelming the room.
Upgrade Your Space Today
Decorating above kitchen cabinets can turn an awkward space into a stunning focal point that elevates your entire kitchen design. From displaying favorite items and faux greenery to incorporating decorative baskets and strip lights, the options are flexible enough to match any style while adding a personal touch to your space.
The most successful arrangements follow basic design principles:
- Maintain visual balance
- Stick to a cohesive color scheme
- Avoid overcrowding the storage space
Before starting your upper cabinet makeover, take these steps:
- Clean the cabinet top thoroughly
- Measure the available vertical space
- Choose decorative items that complement your kitchen’s style
- Plan your arrangement on the floor first
- Consider proper lighting to highlight your decor
Looking to upgrade your space? Our team at Triumph Kitchens and Millwork specializes in bringing your dream kitchen to life. Whether you have tall cabinets, higher ceilings, or small space constraints, we can provide clever solutions tailored to your needs. Contact us today for a free consultation and take the first step toward transforming your kitchen into a beautifully decorated, cohesive look that reflects your personal style and enhances your home’s overall aesthetic.
