10 Decor Ideas for Above Kitchen Cabinets: Smart, Stylish & Space-Savvy Ways to Use That Awkward Gap

One time, during a kitchen makeover, I forgot to check the space above the cabinets — only to realize later that it was the perfect spot for plants and decor. My client joked that I had left a 'dead zone in the kitchen'. That little design mishap taught me that even the smallest spots can have the biggest impact, and yes, small spaces often spark the most creativity. Today, I’m sharing 10 ideas I've actually used to decorate above kitchen cabinets, from practical storage to statement styling. These ideas work for different budgets and design styles, and trust me, you won’t see that awkward gap the same way again. If you're still in the early planning phase, I recommend using a room planner to visualize the look before you commit.

1. Style With Greenery

Nothing softens kitchen lines like a touch of nature. Tall potted plants, faux trailing ivy, or seasonal greenery can fill the vertical space without feeling cluttered. Just remember that real plants in this spot will need more light and less heat — so pick hardy varieties.

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2. Showcase a Collection

If you’ve been hiding a set of beautiful pottery or vintage tins, this is their moment. Above-cabinet space lets you display valuables safely out of reach. The only downside? You’ll need the occasional dust-off, which can mean a wobbly step stool in your future.

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3. Add Uplighting

LED strips or puck lights can make your kitchen glow at night. Uplighting adds depth, highlights textures, and can make even standard cabinets feel custom. Plan wiring ahead — or go for battery-operated lights to skip the electrician call-out.

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4. Frame With Art

Flat prints or framed artwork might not be common above cabinets, but they can bring unexpected personality. I once hung a series of black-and-white food photography prints above a client's cabinets, creating a subtle restaurant vibe.

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5. Install Decorative Baskets

Woven baskets not only look warm and rustic, but they’re incredibly functional. You can stash seasonal baking gear or kitchen linens inside, and nobody will know. If you like symmetry, choose identical baskets in even numbers.

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6. Accent With Architectural Pieces

Think vintage corbels, reclaimed wood planks, or ornate mouldings. These can add instant charm, especially in farmhouse or cottage kitchens. If you're also reworking layout, a free floor plan creator can help you see how these elements balance with the rest of the room.

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7. Fill With Cookbooks

Got a cookbook addiction? Stack them above the cabinets for a homey feel. Just beware of grease and steam — use a clear acrylic guard or rotate them out regularly to keep them crisp.

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8. Create a Mini Bar

For kitchens that double as entertaining spaces, displaying pretty glassware or bottles above the cabinets adds a sophisticated, speakeasy twist. Keep a folding ladder handy for when the party needs refills.

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9. Seasonal Displays

Rotate decor with holidays or seasons — pumpkins in autumn, lanterns in winter, lemons in summer. It keeps the kitchen feeling fresh and gives you a fun excuse to update the look a few times a year.

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10. Layer With Textures

Mixing wood, metal, glass, and fabric creates a more dynamic look. In one project, I paired wood cutting boards with copper pots and linen bunting for a cozy, lived-in feel. When planning more complex decor schemes, I sometimes turn to a kitchen layout planner so I can see proportions before climbing a ladder with a heavy vase.

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FAQ

1. What can I put above my kitchen cabinets?

You can add plants, art, baskets, cookbooks, or seasonal decor — just keep scale and style in mind so it blends with your kitchen.

2. How do I keep above-cabinet decor from looking dated?

Stick to a cohesive color palette, mix textures, and choose decor that reflects current styles without becoming trendy for trend's sake.

3. Is it safe to store items above kitchen cabinets?

Yes, but avoid heavy or frequently used items, as accessing them can be tricky. Light, decorative, or rarely needed items work best.

4. What lighting works above kitchen cabinets?

LED strips are a popular choice. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, LEDs use at least 75% less energy than incandescent lighting.

5. How often should I clean above-cabinet decor?

Plan to dust every 1–2 months, or more often if you cook frequently and oils build up.

6. Should above-cabinet decor match my backsplash?

Not necessarily — it’s more important that it complements your overall color and material palette rather than matching exactly.

7. How can I fill a very high gap above cabinets?

Combine tall decor with vertical elements like trailing plants or stacked art to bridge the height visually.

8. Can I leave above-cabinet space empty?

Absolutely. Minimalist kitchens can benefit from open space; it can make the room look cleaner and taller.