19 Creative Decor Ideas Above Kitchen Cabinets for Cooking Lovers
The space above kitchen cabinets is often overlooked, but it offers endless potential for adding charm and character to your kitchen. With a little creativity, this unused area can become a decor focal point, adding vertical dimension and even providing additional storage.
Whether your kitchen exudes modern minimalism or rustic farmhouse vibes, these 19 decor ideas will inspire you to elevate the plain space above your cabinets into something extraordinary.
1. Add Greenery and Indoor Plants
Bring life to your kitchen with potted plants, trailing vines, or even artificial greenery. This addition can create a fresh, vibrant vibe while balancing out hard surfaces like tile and metal appliances. Choose low-maintenance plants, like pothos or ferns, or go for faux options that require zero upkeep. Arrange cascading vines that spill over the edge of your cabinets for a soft, natural look.
2. Decor With Simple Baskets
Add a touch of charm and functionality above your kitchen cabinets with simple baskets. Use them for storage or as decorative accents to create a warm, rustic vibe.
3. Stylish Baskets for Storage
Combine practicality with style by using baskets made of wicker, rattan, or other natural materials. These baskets add texture and warmth to your kitchen while serving as convenient storage for items you don’t need daily, like linens or small kitchen tools. Choose baskets in varying sizes for visual interest.
4. Display Vintage or Antique Collectibles
Turn the area above your cabinets into a nostalgic gallery with vintage wares. From antique cookie jars to copper pots and pans, these treasures create a timeless, lived-in look. Visit local thrift stores or flea markets to find unique pieces that fit your style.
5. Showcase Artwork or Framed Prints
Who says art is only for living rooms? Small framed prints, paintings, or even typographic art can fit perfectly above your cabinets. Opt for kitchen-related themes like foodie quotes, colorful illustrations, or abstract patterns to cater to your culinary haven’s vibe.
6. Display Your Favorite Stuff
Showcase your personality by decorating above your kitchen cabinets with your favorite random items. From souvenirs to quirky collectibles, this adds a unique and personal touch to your space.
7. Install LED Strip Lighting
Highlight your decor and create ambient lighting by adding LED strips above your cabinets. Battery-operated LED lights are great for easy installation, while plug-in options provide a more permanent solution. The subtle glow creates a cozy atmosphere, especially in the evenings.
8. Decorative Plates or Dishware
If you have a collection of colorful plates or patterned dishware, display them on stands above your cabinets. This decor idea adds a pop of color and works as a conversation starter for guests. Choose plates that complement your kitchen’s color scheme for a cohesive look.
9. Create a Mini Indoor Herb Garden
What’s better than fresh herbs within arm’s reach? Use small pots to grow basil, thyme, mint, or other aromatic herbs above your cabinets. Not only does this add a functional element, but the greenery also contributes to the kitchen’s natural charm.
10. Line with Rustic Wooden Crates
Channel farmhouse elegance with small, rustic wooden crates. These can serve as both decor and storage, perfect for holding cookbooks, jars, or extra kitchen supplies. The raw wood finish adds warmth and texture to your kitchen.
11. Display Elegant Vases or Jars
Large statement vases and glass jars make a chic addition above your cabinets. Fill the jars with visually appealing ingredients like colorful pasta, dried beans, or spices to combine function with aesthetics.
12. Curate Seasonal Decor Displays
Celebrate the seasons or upcoming holidays by changing up your above-cabinet decor. Add pumpkins, autumn leaves, or cozy candles in the fall; garlands, Christmas ornaments, or fairy lights during the holidays; and pastel accents for spring.
13. Incorporate Sculptural Pieces
For a contemporary flair, opt for sculptural decor elements like abstract figures, large bowls, or art pieces. Minimalist and sleek, these items add a wow factor to modern kitchens without overwhelming the eye.
14. Use a Chalkboard or Signage
Add a touch of personalization with chalkboards or rustic signs. Write kitchen-themed quotes, menus, or motivational sayings, and switch it up whenever you want! Letter boards are another modern twist, offering versatile designs for your messages.
15. Incorporate Natural Elements Like Branches or Twigs
Bring the outdoors in with elegant touches like driftwood, dried twigs, or even faux branches. These organic elements add warmth and a bohemian vibe to your kitchen without feeling overdone.
16. Hang Woven Wall Hangings or Tapestries
Small woven tapestries or wall hangings bring texture and an eclectic vibe to the area above your cabinets. Opt for lightweight, easy-to-hang decor that enriches the overall design without appearing bulky.
17. Fairy Lights and Plants
18. Display Unique Ceramic or Porcelain Pieces
Elevate your decor game with one-of-a-kind ceramics or porcelain items that reflect your taste. Whether it’s figurines, bowls, or small sculptures, these pieces can be arranged to complement your kitchen’s color palette.
19. Install Floating Shelves
For extra storage and decor space, consider adding floating shelves above your cabinets. Use them to display bowls, small plates, books, or colorful knick-knacks. Shelves add a modern, layered look while offering functional storage.
Conclusion
Don’t underestimate the potential of the space above your kitchen cabinets. With these 19 ideas, you can amplify your kitchen’s personality while optimizing the use of vertical space. Doesn’t matter, if you bring in greenery, art, or functional elements, there’s a solution to suit any aesthetic.
Start with a single idea or combine a few to create a stunning display that feels uniquely yours. Your kitchen will go from plain to Pinterest-worthy in no time! Happy decorating!