10 Creative Ways to Decorate Above Kitchen Cabinets: Personal tips and design inspirations to make that space pop

Once, a client asked me to turn the empty space above her kitchen cabinets into a "wine library." At first, I laughed — then realized she was absolutely serious. That project taught me something: in small kitchens, those few inches up high can be either forgotten dust collectors or the most eye-catching part of the room. Today, I’ll share 10 decorating ideas for above kitchen cabinets, straight from my years of trying, failing, and then finally nailing that look. Small spaces really do push us into big creativity, and if you’ve ever stared at that gap wondering what to do, you’re in the right place.

1. Create a Mini Indoor Garden

One of my favorite tricks is adding potted herbs or trailing plants. It instantly brings life to the room and softens the cabinet lines. The challenge? You need to choose plants that thrive in indirect light and can handle a bit of kitchen heat. If you’re planning your space from scratch, tools like room planner can help visualize plant placement with your cabinet height.

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2. Display a Collection

I once designed a kitchen where the owner collected vintage enamelware. We used the top space as a curated display. This works brilliantly if your items are colorful or have interesting shapes, but remember — too many pieces can look cluttered.

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3. Add Woven Baskets for Storage

Above-cabinet baskets are both decorative and practical. You can hide seasonal dishes or less-used utensils while keeping the look neat. Invest in baskets of similar color or texture for a cohesive feel.

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4. Install Accent Lighting

LED strip lights or puck lights above cabinets create a warm glow and add depth to the kitchen. It’s a small installation but makes the room feel taller. Just budget for some wiring work if outlets aren’t nearby.

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5. Showcase Cookbooks

If you’re short on counter space, the area above cabinets can become a mini culinary library. Choose sturdy bookends and make sure the books are easy to reach when cooking — though you might need a stool for the higher ones.

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6. Bring in Seasonal Decor

In one project, the homeowner switched out decor above cabinets with the seasons: spring flowers, summer lanterns, autumn pumpkins, winter garlands. To plan these arrangements efficiently, a free floor plan creator can help you map visual balance before climbing any ladders.

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7. Frame Artwork or Photography

Placing framed prints above cabinets adds a gallery feel to the kitchen. Opt for lighter frames to avoid feeling top-heavy. The trick is securing them so they’re safe from kitchen vibrations.

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8. Use Decorative Jars

Glass or ceramic jars filled with dried pasta, beans, or colorful spices give a rustic, homey vibe. Just remember, they’re mostly for display — you’ll want tighter-sealed jars for actual cooking use.

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9. Integrate Sculptural Elements

Statement sculptures or oversized letters can fill the space with personality. Be mindful of scale, so they don’t overwhelm your kitchen layout. I like mapping this out with a kitchen layout planner so I know exactly how it looks from every angle.

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10. Extend the Cabinets Upward

If you’re doing a remodel, consider adding custom panels to close the gap entirely. This gives you more storage and a cleaner appearance, though it can be costlier and might require custom carpentry.

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FAQ

1. What’s the best way to keep decor above cabinets dust-free?

Use lightweight decor you can easily move and clean every few weeks. A handheld vacuum and microfiber cloth are your best friends here.

2. Which plants work best above kitchen cabinets?

Choose low-light tolerant ones like pothos, snake plant, or some types of succulents. According to The Spruce, these varieties can handle typical indoor conditions well.

3. How much weight can the top of a cabinet hold?

It depends on the cabinet construction. Generally, lighter items are safer unless the cabinets are built into a reinforced wall niche.

4. Can LED lights above cabinets damage the finish?

Not if you use low-heat LEDs. Ensure proper installation to avoid heat build-up on cabinet surfaces.

5. Should decor above cabinets match the kitchen style?

Yes, at least in tone or material. A rustic basket works better in a farmhouse kitchen, while sleek ceramics suit modern designs.

6. Is it okay to store food items above cabinets?

Only if they are sealed and in airtight containers. Heat and grease from cooking can spoil perishables quickly.

7. How high is too high to decorate?

If you can’t reach it even with a small ladder, it might be impractical for seasonal switching. Keep safety in mind first.

8. Can I use wallpaper above cabinets?

Yes! It’s a smart way to add color without painting walls. Stick with washable or vinyl options for easy cleaning.