10 Creative Over Kitchen Sink Ideas: Small Space, Big Style: My 10 Favorite Over Kitchen Sink Ideas

A few years back, I had a client who insisted on hanging a crystal chandelier over her tiny kitchen sink. At first, I thought she'd lost it — but when we installed it, the space sparkled (literally) and felt twice as glamorous. That's when I realized: small, overlooked areas like the one above the sink can be the perfect spot to inject personality. In today’s post, I’m sharing my top 10 over kitchen sink ideas that I’ve collected over my 10+ years in design. Small spaces really do unlock big creativity — and these ideas prove it. (I’ll even drop a few pro tricks I’ve used on real projects, like when I played with floor planning layouts to squeeze in style without losing function.)

1. Floating Open Shelves

If you’re short on cabinet space, floating shelves above the sink can create storage and display in one hit. They work great for pretty glasses, plants, or crockery, but be mindful — things up here will get steam and splashes, so choose easy-to-clean materials.

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2. Statement Lighting

Sometimes the right pendant or mini chandelier can transform a dull dishwashing corner into the room’s highlight. Just watch your clearance — an oversized piece might look amazing in photos but could be a head-bumping hazard in real life.

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3. Hanging Rail System

I once installed a sleek black metal rail above a sink to hang mugs, utensils, even a mini herb basket. It’s functional and almost zero-footprint. Just make sure the wall anchors are sturdy enough to handle daily grabs.

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4. Indoor Herb Garden

Herbs love sunlight, and the area over your sink is often prime sun real estate. I’ve used small pots on shelves or a tiered planter that mounts on the wall. There’s nothing like clipping fresh basil while your pasta boils.

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5. Artwork or Framed Prints

Bold art above a sink can be an unexpected delight — and it’s a trick I love for rentals. Pick a wipeable frame or glass cover to survive splashes, and coordinate the colors with dishware for that styled look.

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6. Tall Window Treatment

Got a window behind your sink? A relaxed Roman shade or airy linen curtain softens the space instantly. For tricky measurements, I’ve relied on custom dimension planning so fabric proportions don’t overwhelm the window.

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7. Built-In Dish Rack

In ultra-compact kitchens, I’ve embedded a drying rack into the space above the sink. It saves counter space and lets water drip right into the basin. Downside? You’ll need to keep it tidy since it’s always in view.

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8. Decorative Backsplash Extension

Instead of stopping your backsplash under the cabinets, take it all the way up to the ceiling above the sink. A patterned tile or textured panel creates instant drama, and it’s practical for splash protection.

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9. Slim Glass Cabinets

For clients who want both display and dust protection, slim glass-front cabinets above the sink can be a win. You can highlight colorful dishware and still keep it clean, though lighting inside helps it shine even more.

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10. Overhead Hanging Plants

Suspending a few trailing plants from the ceiling instantly brings life to the sink area. I once positioned a hanging pothos right by a window with the help of a kitchen layout mockup and it became the most Instagrammed part of the house.

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FAQ

1. What is the best material for shelving above a sink?

Water-resistant woods like teak or sealed oak, or powder-coated metals, hold up best in humid, splash-prone spots.

2. Can I install lights over the kitchen sink without rewiring?

Yes, plug-in pendants with swag hooks can be a great no-electrical alternative if rewiring is too costly.

3. What's the safest height for lighting above a kitchen sink?

Generally, 30–36 inches above the counter works well, but always adjust based on your height and sink depth.

4. How do I protect artwork above my sink?

Use frames with glass or acrylic covers, and select moisture-resistant inks or sealed prints to avoid water damage.

5. Is it okay to put plants above the sink?

Absolutely — many plants thrive in the light and humidity near sinks, just be mindful of watering spillovers.

6. Will a built-in dish rack above the sink cause mold?

Not if it’s properly ventilated and you let items fully dry; stainless steel racks resist rust and mold buildup.

7. What's the cheapest over-sink storage trick?

A simple tension rod with S-hooks for mugs or utensils is budget-friendly and removable — ideal for renters.

8. Can I extend my backsplash myself?

With peel-and-stick tiles, it’s a manageable DIY, but for heavy ceramic or stone tiles, pros recommend hiring an installer (see National Kitchen & Bath Association guidelines).