Kitchen Decorating Above Cabinets refers to the art of enhancing the aesthetic appeal and functionality of the vertical space above kitchen cabinets. This involves incorporating decorative elements, optimizing storage solutions, and maximizing the available space to create a cohesive and visually appealing kitchen design.
In modern kitchen spaces, the area above cabinets is often overlooked, presenting an opportunity to add personality and create a unique focal point. Whether it’s displaying decorative items, introducing open shelving, or creating a space for ambient lighting, there are countless ways to transform this often-neglected area into a stylish and functional part of the kitchen.
In this comprehensive guide to kitchen decorating above cabinets, we will delve into the various design possibilities, explore innovative storage solutions, and provide practical tips to help you make the most of this often-overlooked space. With a focus on both aesthetics and functionality, we’ll showcase inspiring ideas to transform your kitchen into a stylish and inviting space that reflects your personal style and meets your everyday needs.
Consider these important points for kitchen decorating above cabinets:
- Maximize vertical space
- Incorporate open shelving
- Display decorative items
- Create ambient lighting
- Add a pop of color
- Hang artwork or photos
- Install floating shelves
- Use baskets for storage
- Add greenery or plants
- Keep it clean and clutter-free
By following these tips, you can transform the space above your kitchen cabinets into a stylish and functional area that reflects your personal style and meets your everyday needs.
Maximize vertical space
Maximizing vertical space above kitchen cabinets is a clever way to optimize storage and create a more spacious feel in your kitchen. Here are some detailed tips to help you make the most of this often-overlooked area:
Utilize Tall Cabinets: Opt for tall cabinets that extend all the way to the ceiling, making use of every inch of available space. These cabinets provide ample storage for pantry items, cookware, and other kitchen essentials, keeping your countertops clutter-free.
Install Floating Shelves: Floating shelves are a versatile and stylish way to add extra storage and display space above cabinets. They can be mounted at different heights, allowing you to create a customized storage solution that suits your needs. Use them to store cookbooks, decorative items, or frequently used kitchenware.
Hang Pots and Pans: If you have limited cabinet space, consider hanging pots and pans on a pot rack or rail above the stove or sink. This frees up valuable cabinet space and keeps your cookware within easy reach while adding a touch of rustic charm to your kitchen.
Create a Vertical Herb Garden: Transform the space above your cabinets into a vertical herb garden. Mount shelves or hanging planters and fill them with fresh herbs like basil, rosemary, and thyme. This not only adds a pop of greenery to your kitchen but also provides you with fresh herbs for cooking.
By maximizing vertical space above your kitchen cabinets, you can create a more organized and visually appealing kitchen while also optimizing storage and functionality.
Incorporate open shelving
Open shelving is a popular design choice for kitchens as it offers easy access to everyday items, creates a sense of spaciousness, and adds a personal touch to the space. Here are some detailed tips on how to incorporate open shelving above kitchen cabinets:
- Choose the right location: Open shelving works best in areas where you need easy access to items, such as above the sink for dishware, or near the stove for spices and cooking oils. Avoid placing open shelves above areas where there is a lot of cooking grease or steam, as this can make it difficult to keep the shelves clean.
- Select the right shelves: There are a variety of open shelving options available, including floating shelves, wall-mounted shelves, and freestanding shelves. Choose shelves that are sturdy and durable, and that match the style of your kitchen cabinets and countertops. Consider using a combination of different shelf types and sizes to create a dynamic and visually appealing display.
- Group items by category: To keep your open shelves looking organized and clutter-free, group items by category. For example, you might have one shelf for dishes, another for glasses, and another for spices. You can also use baskets, bins, or jars to further organize smaller items and create a cohesive look.
- Add decorative elements: Open shelves provide a great opportunity to display decorative items and add personality to your kitchen. Consider adding plants, artwork, or colorful dishes to your shelves to create a warm and inviting atmosphere. Just be sure not to overcrowd the shelves, as this can make them look cluttered and disorganized.
By incorporating open shelving above your kitchen cabinets, you can create a more functional and stylish kitchen that reflects your personal style and meets your everyday needs.
Display decorative items
Displaying decorative items above kitchen cabinets is a great way to add personality and style to your kitchen. Here are some detailed tips on how to do it effectively:
- Choose items that reflect your personal style: The decorative items you choose should reflect your personal taste and style. Whether you prefer a modern, traditional, or eclectic look, select items that you love and that make you happy. This could include anything from vintage dishware to colorful pottery, artwork, or even plants.
- Group items together: To create a cohesive and visually appealing display, group items together by color, shape, or theme. For example, you might group together a collection of blue and white dishes, or a set of antique kitchen tools. You can also use baskets, trays, or other containers to group smaller items together.
- Vary the height and size of items: To add visual interest to your display, vary the height and size of the items you choose. This will create a more dynamic and eye-catching arrangement. For example, you might place a tall vase next to a stack of cookbooks, or a small figurine next to a larger piece of artwork.
- Use negative space: Don’t overcrowd your shelves with decorative items. Leave some negative space to allow the items to breathe and to create a sense of balance. This will also make it easier to keep your shelves clean and dust-free.
By following these tips, you can create a stylish and inviting display of decorative items above your kitchen cabinets that reflects your personal style and adds warmth and charm to your kitchen.
Create ambient lighting
Ambient lighting is a type of general, low-level lighting that creates a warm and inviting atmosphere in a space. It is often used in combination with task lighting to provide overall illumination in a room. In the kitchen, ambient lighting can be used to create a more pleasant and relaxing environment for cooking and dining.
There are a variety of ways to create ambient lighting above kitchen cabinets. One popular option is to use LED strip lights. LED strip lights are flexible and can be easily mounted under cabinets or along the underside of shelves. They provide a soft, diffused light that is perfect for creating ambient lighting.
Another option for creating ambient lighting above kitchen cabinets is to use puck lights. Puck lights are small, round lights that can be mounted directly to the ceiling or underneath cabinets. They provide a more focused light than LED strip lights, but they can still be used to create a warm and inviting atmosphere.
If you have open shelving above your kitchen cabinets, you can also use battery-operated LED lights to create ambient lighting. These lights are small and unobtrusive, and they can be easily placed on shelves to provide a soft glow. This type of lighting adds a cozy and inviting touch to your kitchen.
No matter which type of lighting you choose, be sure to use dimmable bulbs so that you can control the amount of light in your kitchen. This will allow you to create the perfect atmosphere for any occasion.
Add a pop of color
Adding a pop of color above your kitchen cabinets is a great way to create a more vibrant and inviting space. Whether you choose to paint the cabinets themselves, install a colorful backsplash, or simply add a few colorful decorative items, there are many ways to incorporate color into this often-overlooked area of the kitchen.
If you’re looking for a dramatic change, consider painting your kitchen cabinets a bold color. This is a great way to make a statement and create a truly unique kitchen. Just be sure to choose a color that complements the rest of your kitchen dcor. If you have a small kitchen, you might want to paint just the upper cabinets a bright color, while keeping the lower cabinets a more neutral shade. This will help to create the illusion of more space.
Another option for adding color above your kitchen cabinets is to install a colorful backsplash. Backsplashes are available in a wide variety of materials, colors, and patterns, so you’re sure to find one that matches your personal style. If you have a neutral-colored kitchen, a brightly patterned backsplash can add a lot of visual interest. If your kitchen is already quite colorful, you might want to choose a more subdued backsplash to avoid overwhelming the space.
If you’re not ready to make a big commitment to color, you can still add a pop of color above your kitchen cabinets by simply adding a few colorful decorative items. This could include anything from a vase of fresh flowers to a collection of colorful dishes. You can also use colorful towels, pot holders, or oven mitts to add a touch of color to your kitchen. Just be sure to avoid overcrowding the space, as this can make it look cluttered and disorganized.
By adding a pop of color above your kitchen cabinets, you can create a more vibrant and inviting space that reflects your personal style. So don’t be afraid to experiment with different colors and patterns until you find the perfect combination for your kitchen.
Hang artwork or photos
Hanging artwork or photos above kitchen cabinets is a great way to add personality and warmth to your kitchen. It’s also a great way to fill up empty wall space and create a more inviting atmosphere. When choosing artwork or photos to hang above your kitchen cabinets, there are a few things to keep in mind:
Choose pieces that reflect your personal style. Your kitchen is a reflection of your personality, so the artwork or photos you choose to hang above your cabinets should reflect that. Whether you prefer abstract paintings, landscapes, or family photos, choose pieces that you love and that make you happy. This will help to create a kitchen that feels personal and inviting.
Consider the size and scale of the artwork or photos. The size and scale of the artwork or photos you choose should be appropriate for the space above your cabinets. If you have a small kitchen, you’ll want to choose smaller pieces that won’t overwhelm the space. If you have a large kitchen, you can choose larger pieces or even a gallery wall of smaller pieces.
Hang the artwork or photos at the right height. The artwork or photos you hang above your cabinets should be hung at a height where they can be easily seen and appreciated. A good rule of thumb is to hang the artwork or photos so that the center of the piece is about 60 inches above the floor. This will ensure that the artwork or photos are visible from both a standing and sitting position.
By following these tips, you can choose and hang artwork or photos above your kitchen cabinets that will add personality, warmth, and style to your kitchen.
Install floating shelves
Floating shelves are a versatile and stylish way to add extra storage and display space above kitchen cabinets. They can be mounted at different heights, allowing you to create a customized storage solution that suits your needs. Floating shelves are also a great way to add a personal touch to your kitchen by displaying decorative items, artwork, or plants.
- Provide extra storage space: Floating shelves can be used to store a variety of items, such as cookbooks, dishes, glasses, and small appliances. This can help to free up space in your kitchen cabinets and make your kitchen feel more spacious.
- Create a display area: Floating shelves are a great way to display your favorite decorative items, such as vases, sculptures, or artwork. They can also be used to display cookbooks, family photos, or other personal items. Floating shelves can help to add personality and warmth to your kitchen.
- Add a touch of style: Floating shelves come in a variety of materials, colors, and styles, so you can choose shelves that match the overall design of your kitchen. Floating shelves can be a great way to add a touch of modern style to a traditional kitchen, or to add a touch of warmth to a modern kitchen.
- Mount at different heights: Floating shelves can be mounted at different heights, allowing you to create a customized storage and display solution that suits your needs. You can mount shelves high above the cabinets to store items that you don’t use frequently, or you can mount shelves at a lower height to create a more accessible display area.
Floating shelves are a versatile and stylish way to add extra storage and display space above kitchen cabinets. They can be used to store a variety of items, create a display area, add a touch of style, and can be mounted at different heights to suit your needs.
Use baskets for storage
Baskets are a versatile and stylish way to add extra storage space and organization to your kitchen. They can be used to store a variety of items, such as fruits, vegetables, bread, snacks, and kitchen towels. Baskets can also be used to create a more cohesive and organized look in your kitchen by grouping similar items together.
When choosing baskets for storage above kitchen cabinets, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, consider the size and shape of the baskets. You’ll want to choose baskets that are the right size for the items you want to store, and that fit well in the space above your cabinets. You’ll also want to choose baskets that are made from a durable material that can withstand the wear and tear of everyday use.
Another thing to consider when choosing baskets for storage above kitchen cabinets is the style of the baskets. You’ll want to choose baskets that match the overall design of your kitchen. If you have a traditional kitchen, you might choose baskets made from natural materials, such as wicker or wood. If you have a modern kitchen, you might choose baskets made from metal or plastic.
Once you’ve chosen the right baskets for storage above kitchen cabinets, you can start filling them up with your favorite items. Be sure to group similar items together to create a more cohesive and organized look. You can also use baskets to create a more personalized look in your kitchen by adding labels or tags to the baskets.
Baskets are a versatile and stylish way to add extra storage space and organization to your kitchen. They can be used to store a variety of items, and they can also be used to create a more cohesive and organized look in your kitchen. When choosing baskets for storage above kitchen cabinets, be sure to consider the size, shape, and style of the baskets, as well as the items you want to store in them.
Add greenery or plants
Adding greenery or plants above kitchen cabinets is a fantastic way to bring life, color, and a sense of the outdoors into your kitchen. Not only do plants add aesthetic value, but they can also improve air quality and create a more inviting atmosphere.
- Purify the air:
Certain plants, such as spider plants, peace lilies, and snake plants, are known for their air-purifying abilities. They help remove harmful toxins and pollutants from the air, creating a healthier environment in your kitchen.
- Enhance the ambiance:
The presence of greenery can have a calming and uplifting effect on the mood. Plants add a touch of to your kitchen, creating a more inviting and relaxing atmosphere where you can enjoy cooking and dining.
- Add a pop of color and texture:
Plants come in a wide variety of colors, shapes, and textures, allowing you to add a pop of color and visual interest to your kitchen. They can complement your existing dcor or create a striking contrast.
- Provide a natural fragrance:
Certain plants, such as herbs and flowering plants, release a pleasant fragrance into the air. This can help to freshen up your kitchen and create a more inviting atmosphere.
When choosing plants for your kitchen, consider the amount of sunlight the area receives, as well as the humidity levels. You’ll also want to choose plants that are easy to care for and non-toxic to pets and children. With a little planning, you can easily add greenery or plants above your kitchen cabinets and enjoy the many benefits they offer.
Keep it clean and clutter-free
Maintaining a clean and clutter-free space above kitchen cabinets is essential for both aesthetic and practical reasons. A well-organized and clean area not only enhances the overall look of your kitchen, but also makes it easier to find and access items, and promotes a more hygienic environment.
- Regular dusting and cleaning:
To keep the area above your kitchen cabinets clean and free of dust and grime, regular dusting and cleaning are necessary. Use a microfiber cloth or a vacuum cleaner with a soft brush attachment to gently remove dust and cobwebs. For stubborn dirt or grease stains, use a mild detergent mixed with warm water and wipe the surface clean.
- Declutter and organize:
Avoid cluttering the space above your cabinets with unnecessary items. Keep only essential items that you frequently use, such as rarely used appliances, infrequently used dishes, or decorative pieces. Consider using baskets, bins, or containers to neatly organize and store these items, making them easily accessible when needed.
- Avoid overcrowding:
Overcrowding the space above your cabinets can make your kitchen look cramped and cluttered. Instead, aim for a minimalist approach by displaying only a few carefully selected items. This will create a more visually appealing and serene atmosphere in your kitchen.
- Consider lighting:
Proper lighting can make a significant difference in the overall look and functionality of the area above your kitchen cabinets. Install adequate lighting to ensure that the space is well-illuminated, making it easier to find and access items. You can use recessed lighting, under-cabinet lights, or pendant lights to create aand inviting atmosphere.
By keeping the area above your kitchen cabinets clean, clutter-free, and well-organized, you can create a more pleasant and functional space that enhances the overall aesthetics and functionality of your kitchen.
