10 Decorating Ideas for Above Kitchen Cabinets: Creative Ways to Style the Space Above Kitchen Cabinets

A few years back, I had a client who insisted on turning the space above her kitchen cabinets into a mini art gallery. Honestly, I thought it would look cluttered — but when we nailed the lighting and palette, it became the star of her kitchen. It reminded me that small, overlooked areas can be the perfect canvas for personality. Today, I’m sharing 10 easy, stylish ideas to make that space work for you — proof that small spaces can spark big creativity. And yes, I’ve even used a room planner to test these setups before moving a single vase.

1. Layered Greenery

Plants instantly soften hard kitchen lines. Mix trailing pothos with upright faux palms for texture. Just remember, dust settles fast up there — so low-maintenance is your friend.

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2. Wicker Baskets for Storage

Pretty and practical. Hide seasonal kitchen tools in coordinated baskets; bonus points if they match your cabinet finish for a cohesive look.

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3. Vintage Finds

Old scales, enamel pitchers, or metal signs can bring nostalgic charm. I often hunt flea markets for unique pieces that tell a story.

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4. Statement Lighting

If you’ve got a gap between ceiling and cabinets, why not add LED strip lights? A warm glow draws the eye upward and shows off your decor.

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5. Oversized Artwork

Place a large, framed piece against the wall above cabinets for a gallery feel. Just keep the weight in mind — lighter is safer when installing above head height.

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6. Seasonal Displays

Rotate themes through the year — ceramic pumpkins for fall, pine garlands in winter. It keeps the kitchen feeling fresh, and you won’t get bored. This is when a free floor plan creator can help you visualize proportions before you buy decor pieces.

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7. Color-Coordinated Cookbooks

Stack cookbooks with spines arranged by color. It’s functional art — and a playful nod to your culinary side.

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8. Ceramic Collections

Grouping similar ceramics creates impact, even in small numbers. I’ve done this with vintage bowls in varying heights for a layered look.

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9. Architectural Salvage

Think corbels, reclaimed wood, or tin ceiling tiles leaning casually against the wall. They’re full of texture and character, though you’ll want to secure heavier items properly.

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10. Mini Bar Setup

A slim tray with bottles, glasses, and a plant can turn dead space into a styled home bar. Just make sure it’s not in direct heat from the oven. Sometimes, checking the vibe in a kitchen layout planner gives me ideas for balancing visual weight and function.

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FAQ

1. Should I decorate above my kitchen cabinets?

Yes, if you want to add personality and warmth. Just keep it proportional to avoid making your kitchen feel heavy.

2. What should I avoid putting above kitchen cabinets?

Avoid items that can be damaged by heat, grease, or dust — paper art, delicate fabrics, or unsealed wood.

3. How do I keep decor above cabinets clean?

Dust and grease can build up, so opt for washable materials or clean quarterly with a gentle all-purpose cleaner.

4. Are fake plants okay above kitchen cabinets?

Absolutely. High-quality faux greenery gives the look without the upkeep — perfect for hard-to-reach spots.

5. Can I add decor if my cabinets touch the ceiling?

Yes, but in this case, stick to crown molding or a paint treatment to add character.

6. How do I make it look cohesive with the rest of my kitchen?

Repeat textures or colors found elsewhere, like matching your basket tone to your bar stools.

7. How much space do I need above cabinets to decorate?

Even 8–12 inches can work if you use low-profile items. Measure before you shop.

8. Can lighting above cabinets improve my kitchen?

Yes, per the American Lighting Association, ambient lighting boosts overall mood and highlights decor.