10 Creative Ideas for Above-Cabinet Kitchen Decor: Maximize That Awkward Gap: 10 Kitchen Above-Cabinet Styling Ideas

Years ago, I had a client who insisted on storing cereal boxes above her kitchen cabinets. Every brand, every flavor—her "cereal wall". Quirky? Yes. Attractive? Not so much. That project taught me something: the space above cabinets isn’t just dead air; it’s a chance to show personality and add warmth. Small gaps up high can spark big design creativity, and today I’m sharing 10 ideas I’ve tried and loved over the years.

Before we dive in, if you’re in the planning phase of a kitchen makeover, using a room planner can help you visualize how these ideas will balance with the rest of your space.

1. Lush Greenery

Faux or real plants add instant freshness. I’ve used trailing pothos or ivy to soften corners, especially in kitchens with lots of hard edges. Just be mindful of grease build-up and choose easy-to-clean planters.

save pin

2. Styled Baskets

Baskets hide clutter while adding texture. I recommend lidded seagrass baskets for a clean look. It’s also a smart way to stash infrequently used baking molds or holiday platters.

save pin

3. Art & Prints

If you’re tired of “functional only” kitchens, prop framed art above cabinets for a gallery feel. Just remember colors might shift in kitchen lighting—test before committing.

save pin

4. Layered Ceramics

Grouping vases, jugs, and bowls works wonders in country or rustic kitchens. I learned the key is varying height and depth so it doesn’t look like a store display.

save pin

5. Ambient Lighting

LED strips or puck lights above cabinets create a dreamy night-time glow. It’s energy-efficient and adds depth without clutter. You can easily plan placement with a free floor plan creator before wiring.

save pin

6. Cookbooks on Display

If you have a cookbook obsession, stack them horizontally for easy reach and a pop of color. Just avoid placing sensitive covers too close to heat sources.

save pin

7. Statement Sculptures

Oversized vases, abstract pieces, or metal art can fill the gap beautifully. It’s ideal for modern kitchens with high ceilings that would otherwise feel empty.

save pin

8. Seasonal Rotations

I love swapping above-cabinet decor with the seasons—garlands in winter, citrus bowls in summer. It keeps the kitchen feeling alive and intentional.

save pin

9. Vintage Finds

Old signage, enamelware, or antique tins can tell a story. Mixing materials creates an eclectic style, but keep it cohesive with a unifying color palette inspired by your existing kitchen layout planner kitchen layout planner.

save pin

10. Minimalist Zen

Sometimes, the best decor is none at all. In sleek, modern kitchens, leaving the tops bare emphasizes clean lines and avoids dust traps—function meets form.

save pin

FAQ

1. Is above-cabinet decor outdated?

Not necessarily. Done thoughtfully with cohesive style, it can feel modern and fresh.

2. How do I prevent dust above kitchen cabinets?

Regular dusting and choosing decor that’s easy to wipe down work best. Baskets and sealed containers are practical options.

3. Can I install lights above my cabinets without hardwiring?

Yes. Battery-operated LED strips or puck lights are easy, renter-friendly options with no wiring.

4. Is it safe to store cookbooks above the stove?

No. Heat and steam can warp pages—store them above cabinets away from direct heat.

5. What plants work well above kitchen cabinets?

Faux plants, pothos, ivy, and snake plants can handle varying light and temperature conditions.

6. How much space do I need for above-cabinet decor?

Ideally, at least 12 inches of clearance for impactful styling.

7. Does above-cabinet decor work in small kitchens?

Yes, especially with light colors or mirrors to create an illusion of height.

8. Where can I find layout inspirations?

You can explore curated designs on professional platforms like Coohom, which showcase kitchen setups and decor variations.