Decorating Above Kitchen Cabinets: A Guide to Enhancing Your Kitchen's Style and Functionality

When decorating a kitchen, the focus often goes to the cabinets, countertops, and appliances. However, the space above the kitchen cabinets is often overlooked, leaving a vast expanse of bare walls. This can make the kitchen feel incomplete and visually unappealing. Decorating above kitchen cabinets can add personality, warmth, and functionality to the space. Whether it’s displaying decorative items, installing open shelving, or creating a gallery wall, there are endless possibilities to transform this often-neglected area into a stylish and functional part of the kitchen.

Incorporating dcor above kitchen cabinets not only enhances the aesthetics of the kitchen but also offers practical benefits. It provides an opportunity to add storage space, display treasured possessions, and create a more inviting atmosphere. By carefully selecting decorative elements that complement the overall design of the kitchen, homeowners can create a cohesive and visually appealing space that reflects their personal style and preferences.

This article delves into the various aspects of decorating above kitchen cabinets, exploring the benefits and challenges, offering design ideas, and providing tips for creating a harmonious and functional space. From choosing the right dcor to arranging and installing it, readers will gain insights and inspiration to transform the space above their kitchen cabinets into an integral part of their kitchen’s design.

Considering decorating above kitchen cabinets? Here are 9 important points to keep in mind:

Enhance aesthetics and personality
Add storage and functionality
Create a cohesive design
Showcase decorative items
Personalize the kitchen space
Consider scale and proportion
Choose durable and easy-to-clean materials
Ensure safety and accessibility
Maintain a harmonious balance

By carefully addressing these aspects, you can create a visually appealing and functional space above your kitchen cabinets that complements the overall design of your kitchen.

Enhance aesthetics and personality

Decorating above kitchen cabinets offers a unique opportunity to enhance the aesthetics and personality of the kitchen. By carefully selecting decorative elements that complement the overall design of the kitchen, homeowners can create a cohesive and visually appealing space that reflects their personal style and preferences.

For kitchens with a modern or minimalist design, clean lines and simple geometric shapes can create a sleek and sophisticated look. Floating shelves in neutral colors can display a collection of cookbooks or decorative objects, adding visual interest without overwhelming the space. Alternatively, a single piece of bold artwork or a metallic sculpture can serve as a focal point above the cabinets, drawing the eye upwards and creating a sense of drama.

In traditional or rustic kitchens, open shelving made from natural wood can add warmth and character. These shelves can be used to display a variety of items, from vintage dishes and glassware to potted plants and herbs. Baskets and wicker containers can also be incorporated to add texture and visual interest. For a more eclectic look, homeowners can mix and match different styles and colors, creating a unique and personalized display.

Kitchens with a coastal or farmhouse aesthetic can benefit from the addition of decorative items that evoke a sense of nature and simplicity. Seashells, driftwood, and starfish can be arranged on shelves or hung from hooks, while mason jars filled with wildflowers or herbs can add a touch of rustic charm. For a more whimsical touch, homeowners can display a collection of colorful teacups or vintage enamelware.

No matter the style of the kitchen, decorating above the cabinets can be a creative and rewarding way to add personality and visual interest to the space. By carefully considering the design of the kitchen and selecting decorative elements that complement the overall aesthetic, homeowners can create a kitchen that is both beautiful and functional.

Add storage and functionality

In addition to enhancing the aesthetics of the kitchen, decorating above cabinets can provide valuable storage and functionality.

Create extra storage space:
The space above kitchen cabinets is often wasted vertical space. By installing shelves, racks, or other storage solutions, homeowners can create extra storage space for a variety of items, such as cookbooks, dishes, glasses, and small appliances. This can be particularly beneficial in small kitchens where counter and cabinet space is limited.
Display frequently used items:
Decorating above cabinets can also be a practical way to display frequently used items, such as spices, utensils, and mugs. By keeping these items within easy reach, homeowners can save time and effort during meal preparation and cooking. Open shelving or hanging racks can be used to create designated spaces for these items, making them easily accessible and adding a decorative touch to the kitchen.
Incorporate functional decor:
Some decorative items can serve both aesthetic and functional purposes. For example, a magnetic knife strip can be used to display knives while keeping them organized and within reach. Hanging baskets or jars can be used to store fruits, vegetables, or herbs, adding a pop of color and freshness to the kitchen. Floating shelves can be used to display cookbooks and recipe books, providing easy access to culinary inspiration while adding a decorative touch.
Maximize vertical space:
Decorating above cabinets is an effective way to maximize vertical space in the kitchen. By utilizing the area above the cabinets, homeowners can create additional storage and display space without taking up valuable counter or floor space. This can be particularly beneficial in small kitchens or kitchens with limited storage options.

By creatively utilizing the space above kitchen cabinets, homeowners can add valuable storage and functionality to their kitchens, making them more organized, efficient, and visually appealing.

Create a cohesive design

When decorating above kitchen cabinets, creating a cohesive design is essential for a visually appealing and harmonious space. Here are some key considerations to achieve a cohesive design:

1. Consider the overall design style of the kitchen:
The decorative elements above the cabinets should complement the overall design style of the kitchen. For example, if the kitchen has a modern or minimalist design, clean lines and simple geometric shapes will create a cohesive look. On the other hand, if the kitchen has a traditional or rustic design, open shelving made from natural wood or decorative items that evoke a sense of nature and simplicity will be more appropriate.

2. Choose a color palette that complements the kitchen’s color scheme:
The colors used in the decorative elements above the cabinets should complement the color scheme of the kitchen. This does not mean that everything has to match exactly, but there should be a sense of harmony and balance. For example, if the kitchen has white cabinets and a gray backsplash, adding decorative items in shades of blue and green can create a cohesive and inviting atmosphere.

3. Pay attention to scale and proportion:
The size and scale of the decorative elements should be in proportion to the size of the kitchen and the cabinets. Overly large or small items can look out of place and disrupt the visual balance of the space. For example, in a small kitchen with compact cabinets, it is best to use smaller decorative items or artwork. In a large kitchen with tall cabinets, larger decorative pieces can be used to fill the space and create a sense of visual interest.

4. Create a focal point:
Incorporating a focal point above the cabinets can add visual interest and draw the eye upwards. This could be a piece of artwork, a collection of decorative objects, or even a unique lighting fixture. The focal point should be visually appealing and complement the overall design of the kitchen. For example, a colorful painting can serve as a focal point in a neutral-colored kitchen, while a collection of vintage kitchenware can create a focal point in a rustic kitchen.

By carefully considering these factors, homeowners can create a cohesive and visually appealing design above their kitchen cabinets that complements the overall style and color scheme of the kitchen. This will result in a harmonious and inviting space that is both beautiful and functional.

Showcase decorative items

Decorating above kitchen cabinets provides an excellent opportunity to showcase decorative items that reflect your personal style and add visual interest to the kitchen. Here are four key points to consider when selecting and arranging decorative items above your kitchen cabinets:

Choose items that complement the kitchen’s design style:
The decorative items you choose should complement the overall design style of the kitchen. For example, in a modern or minimalist kitchen, geometric shapes, clean lines, and neutral colors work well. In a traditional kitchen, you might choose more ornate items with intricate details and warm colors. In a rustic kitchen, natural materials like wood and stone can create a cozy and inviting atmosphere.
Create a cohesive arrangement:
When arranging decorative items above your kitchen cabinets, aim for a cohesive look. This doesn’t mean everything has to match perfectly, but there should be a sense of unity and balance. Consider the size, shape, color, and texture of the items you choose, and arrange them in a way that creates a visually pleasing composition.
Vary the height and depth of items:
To create a dynamic and interesting display, vary the height and depth of the items you place above your cabinets. This will add visual interest and keep the eye moving. For example, you might place a tall vase on one end of the cabinet and a shorter bowl on the other end. You could also use risers or shelves to create different levels of height.
Leave some negative space:
It’s important to leave some negative space, or empty areas, between decorative items. This will prevent the space from feeling cluttered and overwhelming. Negative space also allows the individual items to stand out and be appreciated.

By carefully selecting and arranging decorative items above your kitchen cabinets, you can create a visually appealing and personalized space that reflects your unique style and adds warmth and charm to your kitchen.

Personalize the kitchen space

Decorating above kitchen cabinets offers a unique opportunity to personalize the kitchen space and make it a reflection of your unique style and personality. Here are four ways to personalize the kitchen space through decoration above cabinets:

Showcase personal collections:
If you have a collection of items that you love, such as vintage pottery, teacups, or cookbooks, displaying them above your kitchen cabinets is a great way to personalize the space and add a touch of your personality. Arrange the items in a visually appealing way, and consider using shelves, risers, or hooks to create different levels of height and depth.
Incorporate meaningful objects:
Incorporate meaningful objects that hold sentimental value or tell a story about your family or heritage. This could include heirlooms, travel souvenirs, or artwork created by loved ones. Displaying these items above your kitchen cabinets will make the space feel more personal and inviting.
Create a gallery wall:
A gallery wall is a great way to display a collection of artwork, photographs, or other decorative items in a cohesive and visually appealing manner. You can create a gallery wall above your kitchen cabinets by hanging pictures, paintings, or framed prints in a variety of sizes and styles. Arrange the items in a balanced and harmonious way, and consider using different frames and matting to add visual interest.
Add plants and greenery:
Plants and greenery can bring life and color to the kitchen space. Place potted plants or hanging baskets above your kitchen cabinets to add a touch of nature and freshness. You can also use faux plants if you don’t have the time or resources to care for live plants.

By personalizing the space above your kitchen cabinets, you can create a kitchen that is both beautiful and meaningful, reflecting your unique style and personality.

Consider scale and proportion

When decorating above kitchen cabinets, it is essential to consider the scale and proportion of the decorative elements in relation to the size of the kitchen and the cabinets themselves. The goal is to create a visually balanced and harmonious space.

Choose items that are appropriately sized:
The size of the decorative items you choose should be in proportion to the size of the kitchen and the cabinets. Overly large items can overwhelm a small kitchen, while overly small items can get lost in a large kitchen. For example, in a small kitchen with compact cabinets, it is best to use smaller decorative items or artwork. In a large kitchen with tall cabinets, larger decorative pieces can be used to fill the space and create a sense of visual interest.
Consider the height and depth of items:
In addition to the overall size of the decorative items, it is also important to consider their height and depth. Items that are too tall or too deep can block the view of the cabinets or make the space feel cluttered. When placing items above the cabinets, leave enough space between the items and the cabinets so that the cabinets are still visible. You can also use risers or shelves to create different levels of height and depth, which can add visual interest and make the space feel more dynamic.
Create a sense of balance:
When arranging decorative items above the cabinets, aim to create a sense of balance. This does not mean that everything has to be perfectly symmetrical, but there should be a visual equilibrium. For example, if you place a large piece of artwork on one side of the cabinets, balance it out with a group of smaller items on the other side. You can also use different colors and textures to create a sense of visual interest and balance.
Leave some negative space:
It is important to leave some negative space, or empty areas, between decorative items. This will prevent the space from feeling cluttered and overwhelming. Negative space also allows the individual items to stand out and be appreciated. Aim for a balance between decorative items and negative space, so that the overall look is visually appealing and harmonious.

By carefully considering the scale and proportion of the decorative elements you choose, you can create a visually balanced and harmonious space above your kitchen cabinets that complements the overall design of the kitchen.

Choose durable and easy-to-clean materials

When selecting decorative items and materials for the space above kitchen cabinets, durability and ease of cleaning are crucial considerations. The kitchen is a high-traffic area prone to grease, steam, and spills. Decorative elements placed above the cabinets are particularly susceptible to accumulating dust, grime, and cooking residue. Therefore, choosing materials that can withstand these conditions and are easy to clean is essential for maintaining a hygienic and visually appealing kitchen.

Non-porous materials: Opt for non-porous materials such as ceramic, glass, or metal. These materials do not absorb liquids or stains easily, making them ideal for areas exposed to cooking vapors and grease. Non-porous surfaces are also less likely to harbor bacteria and mold, ensuring a cleaner and healthier kitchen environment.

Easy-to-clean finishes: Choose decorative items with smooth, easy-to-clean finishes. Avoid intricate designs or excessive ornamentation that may trap dust and grime. Glossy or semi-gloss finishes are generally easier to wipe clean than matte finishes. If you opt for textured finishes, ensure they are sealed properly to prevent the accumulation of dirt and grease.

Washable or wipeable materials: If you plan to display fabrics or textiles above the cabinets, select washable or wipeable materials. This will allow you to easily remove dust, spills, or stains. Avoid delicate or high-maintenance fabrics that require specialized cleaning methods.

Regular cleaning and maintenance: To maintain the longevity and appearance of decorative items above kitchen cabinets, regular cleaning and maintenance are essential. Wipe down surfaces with a damp cloth or duster to remove dust and grime. For more stubborn, use a mild detergent or cleaning solution appropriate for the material. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners that may damage the finish or material.

By choosing durable and easy-to-clean materials for decorative items above kitchen cabinets, you can ensure a hygienic, visually appealing, and low-maintenance kitchen environment.

Ensure safety and accessibility

When decorating above kitchen cabinets, safety and accessibility are paramount. Consider the following points to ensure a safe and functional kitchen environment:

Securely mount decorative items:
Ensure that all decorative items are securely mounted to the wall or cabinets to prevent them from falling and causing injury. Use appropriate hardware and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for installation. Avoid placing heavy or fragile items above the cabinets, as they pose a greater risk of falling.
Consider the reach of individuals:
Take into account the reach of individuals who will be using the kitchen. If the cabinets are high, consider using a step stool or ladder to safely access and decorate the space above. Avoid placing items that require stretching or straining to reach, as this can lead to accidents.
Maintain a clear pathway:
Ensure that the decorative items do not obstruct the pathway between the countertop and the upper cabinets. This is especially important in kitchens with limited space. Clear access to the cabinets is essential for safely reaching and retrieving items.
Choose non-toxic materials:
Select decorative items and materials that are non-toxic and safe for use in the kitchen. Avoid items that emit harmful fumes or chemicals, as these can contaminate food and pose health risks.

By prioritizing safety and accessibility, you can create a functional and hazard-free kitchen environment while enjoying the aesthetic benefits of decorating above kitchen cabinets.

Maintain a harmonious balance

Creating a harmonious balance above kitchen cabinets involves carefully considering the visual weight, color palette, and arrangement of decorative items. Here are four key points to achieve a visually balanced and aesthetically pleasing space:

Visual weight:
Visual weight refers to the perceived heaviness or lightness of an object. When arranging items above kitchen cabinets, distribute the visual weight evenly to create a sense of balance. Larger, heavier items should be placed towards the center or bottom of the space, while smaller, lighter items can be placed towards the edges or top. This will prevent the composition from feeling top-heavy or unbalanced.
Color palette:
The color palette you choose for the decorative items should complement the overall color scheme of the kitchen. Consider the colors of the cabinets, countertops, backsplash, and other prominent features in the kitchen. Choose colors that harmonize with these elements, creating a cohesive and visually appealing look. Avoid using too many contrasting colors, as this can create a cluttered and overwhelming effect.
Arrangement:
The arrangement of decorative items above kitchen cabinets plays a crucial role in achieving visual balance. Group similar items together to create a sense of unity and coherence. For example, group all the cookbooks together or all the decorative plates together. You can also create a focal point by placing a single, eye-catching item in the center of the space. Leave some negative space between groups of items to prevent the arrangement from feeling cluttered or overwhelming.
Height and depth:
Vary the height and depth of the decorative items to add visual interest and create a dynamic display. Place taller items towards the back of the space and shorter items towards the front. You can also use risers or shelves to create different levels of height. Incorporating items with varying depths adds a sense of dimension to the arrangement, making it more visually appealing.

By carefully considering visual weight, color palette, arrangement, and height and depth, you can create a harmonious and visually balanced display above your kitchen cabinets that complements the overall design of the kitchen and enhances the aesthetic appeal of the space.