10 Creative Ideas for Decorating Above Kitchen Cabinets: Personal tips from 10+ years of small-space kitchen design experience

A few years ago, a client asked me to turn the space above her kitchen cabinets into “a wine library with fairy lights.” I remember thinking, this could be either magical or a complete disaster. In the end, it turned out stunning — and it reminded me how these overlooked areas can really showcase personality. Small spaces often force us to think vertically, and that’s where the area above cabinets becomes a secret stage for creativity. Today, I’m sharing 10 ideas I’ve used (and sometimes learned the hard way) to bring that space to life.

1. Greenery That Loves Heights

I love adding trailing plants up there — pothos and philodendrons are my go-to. They soften the hard cabinet lines and make the kitchen feel fresh. Just remember to choose low-maintenance varieties since they’re not as easy to water. And yes, I’ve learned the hard way that fake greenery can be just as charming without the ladder drama.

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2. Stylish Storage Baskets

This is my favorite combo of pretty and practical. Woven baskets can hide seasonal kitchenware while adding texture. I once placed a mix of rattan and canvas bins for a coastal kitchen design using a detailed room planner mockup — it helped the client visualize exactly how it would look before buying.

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3. Oversized Statement Art

If you’ve got tall ceilings, try leaning a big framed print up there. It draws the eye upward and makes the kitchen feel more intentional. Just double-check the art isn’t too precious — kitchens can get humid, and I once had to rescue a warping canvas.

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4. Vintage Finds & Antiques

I’ve scored old enamel pitchers, brass teapots, and vintage cookie tins from flea markets that now live above clients’ cabinets. They bring a warm, collected feel but beware: if you pile too much, it can look like a storage closet rather than curated decor.

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5. Seasonal Displays

Rotating seasonal pieces — ceramic pumpkins in fall, lanterns in winter, woven trays in summer — keeps the space fresh. I often sketch these arrangements in a scaled kitchen view so clients can preview proportions.

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6. Mini Library

If you or your client loves cookbooks, stack them horizontally with a bookend or two. Bonus: it’s easy to swap them out and add fresh titles. Just avoid placing them right over a range — steam and pages aren’t friends.

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7. Accent Lighting

LED strips or small spotlights can instantly highlight whatever’s on display. I once installed dimmable strips for a baker’s kitchen so her copper molds above the cabinets turned into sparkling evening decor.

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8. Architectural Elements

Corbels, molding, or beadboard can transform the dead space into a design statement. It’s a higher budget move, but it lasts forever and adds value. A contractor I work with jokes this is the “crown jewel” treatment for cabinets.

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9. Functional Displays

Sometimes we use the space for large but beautiful appliances clients rarely move, like vintage mixers or specialty slow cookers. With the right layout plan from a kitchen layout planner visualization, it can be both stylish and functional.

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10. Personal Treasures

Photos in simple frames, travel souvenirs, or even a quirky ceramic chicken (yes, a client insisted it watched over her cooking). This is the most personal approach, and it always makes the kitchen feel warm and uniquely yours.

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FAQ

Q1: What is the best way to clean decor above kitchen cabinets?

Use a step ladder, microfiber cloth, and mild cleaning solution. Dust monthly to avoid heavy buildup.

Q2: Can I put plants above kitchen cabinets?

Yes, but choose low-maintenance plants or faux greenery due to the height and less frequent watering.

Q3: How do I keep the design from looking cluttered?

Stick to a consistent color scheme or theme, and leave some negative space for balance.

Q4: Is it safe to store heavy items up there?

Only if cabinets are stable and items are secure. Avoid overly heavy pieces that could fall.

Q5: Are LED lights safe above cabinets?

Yes, as long as they’re installed properly with ventilation. Refer to manufacturer guidelines such as those from the U.S. Department of Energy.

Q6: Can I decorate above cabinets in a small kitchen?

Absolutely. It can make the space feel taller and more personalized without taking up usable workspace.

Q7: What’s the budget-friendly option?

Baskets, thrift store finds, and DIY art can be inexpensive yet impactful.

Q8: Should decor match my kitchen style?

Yes, tying in colors and textures with your existing kitchen design creates a cohesive look.