We sometimes include affiliate links and curated AI content to highlight top design styles.
The gap above kitchen cabinets can feel like a design challenge. Leaving it bare can make a space feel unfinished, while filling it with clutter can quickly become an eyesore. Finding the right balance of decoration and practicality is key to making your kitchen feel complete and stylish.
1. Utilize Decorative Storage Containers
Using baskets, jars, or canisters above your cabinets is a great way to keep the space functional and stylish. Woven baskets can add warmth and texture, while glass jars create an open and airy feel. Choose containers that match your kitchen’s color scheme for a cohesive look.
2. Don’t Overcrowd the Space
While filling the gap can enhance your kitchen’s look, cramming too many items up there can create a cluttered, messy appearance. Instead of packing the space with random objects, be selective with what you display.
3. Showcase Kitchen-Related Decor
If you love to cook, why not use the space to showcase a collection of cookbooks, vintage kitchenware, framed artwork, or decorative plates? This can add personality to your kitchen and create a cohesive theme.
4. Don’t Use the Space for Bulky, Unused Appliances
Storing large, infrequently used kitchen appliances above cabinets can make them hard to reach and create a heavy, cluttered look. These items not only take up valuable space but also make cleaning more difficult.
5. Add Trailing Plants for a Fresh Look
Plants can bring life to your kitchen and soften the hard edges of cabinets. Trailing plants like pothos, ivy, or string of pearls work beautifully in this space, adding a touch of greenery and vibrancy.
6. Don’t Use Faux Greenery That Looks Outdated
While faux plants can be a great option for low-maintenance decor, avoid outdated or overly artificial-looking greenery. Poor-quality faux plants can make your kitchen feel dated and dusty rather than fresh and inviting.
7. Incorporate Soft LED Lighting
Lighting above cabinets can add a warm and inviting glow to your kitchen. LED strips or battery-operated puck lights are an easy way to illuminate the space without complicated wiring.
8. Don’t Leave the Space Empty If It Looks Unfinished
Some kitchens look just fine with an open gap above the cabinets, but in others, it can make the space feel incomplete. If your kitchen falls into the latter category, adding simple decor can help.
9. Create a Seasonal Decor Rotation
If you love changing up your decor, the space above your cabinets is perfect for seasonal displays. In the fall, consider pumpkins and warm tones; for winter, festive garlands and twinkling lights work well.
10. Don’t Block Ventilation Areas
If your kitchen has vents or ductwork above the cabinets, be mindful not to block them with decor. Good airflow is essential to prevent moisture buildup and keep your kitchen air fresh.
11. Install Crown Molding for a Finished Look
Adding crown molding can seamlessly bridge the gap between your cabinets and the ceiling. This trick makes your kitchen look more polished and built-in, enhancing its overall aesthetic.
12. Don’t Use Items That Can Attract Pests
Avoid open baskets of food, unsealed grains, or anything that could encourage insects or rodents. The last thing you want is for your decorative space to turn into a pest magnet.
13. Be Mindful with Open Shelving
While open shelving can add charm, overloading it can lead to visual clutter. A few select pieces displayed neatly can enhance the kitchen’s aesthetic without making it feel overwhelming.
14. Avoid Dust-Collecting and Hard-to-Clean Items
The gap above your cabinets tends to attract dust and grease, especially if you cook often. Avoid placing items that are difficult to clean, like fabric decorations or intricate decor pieces.
15. Keep It Minimalist with Simple Statement Pieces
If you prefer a clean, uncluttered look, keep your cabinet-top decor simple. A few large, impactful pieces will create a stylish statement without feeling overwhelming.
Making the Most of Your Kitchen Space
Decorating the space above your kitchen cabinets is a great opportunity to enhance the look and feel of your kitchen. Whether you add storage, plants, artwork, or under-cabinet lighting, the key is to keep it balanced and cohesive. Take your time experimenting with different ideas, and soon, you’ll have a kitchen space that feels complete and thoughtfully styled.
