how to decorate above kitchen cabinets

How to Decorate Above Kitchen Cabinets: 6 Easy Steps

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Ever stand in your kitchen and just… stare at that awkward, empty void above your cabinets? You’re not alone. I swear it’s one of the most neglected spots in any house. It either collects dust bunnies the size of small pets or becomes a sad graveyard for that one vase you got as a gift and have no idea what to do with.

But what if I told you that space is a golden opportunity? Seriously. It’s a blank canvas begging for some personality. I’m going to show you some easy, creative ways to decorate above your kitchen cabinets and turn that forgotten zone into a stylish focal point. Let’s get that space looking intentional, shall we?

What You’ll Need

Before we start, let’s talk supplies. I’m not saying you need to go out and buy all this stuff, but having a few of these on hand will make the process a whole lot smoother.

  • Baskets and Bins: Great for storage and adding texture.
  • Greenery (Faux or Real): Because plants make everything better.
  • Statement Art or Pottery: For that wow factor.
  • Ambient Lighting: Think LED strips or fairy lights.
  • Seasonal Accents: To keep things fresh throughout the year.

Your Step-by-Step Guide to Above-Cabinet Glory

Ready to transform that space? I’ve broken it down into a few simple steps. It’s easier than you think, I promise.

Step 1: Measure & Plan

First things first: measure your space. How much height do you actually have to play with? Once you have your dimensions, think about the vibe you’re going for. Do you want something minimalist, rustic, or maybe a bit modern? Deciding on a look now will save you a lot of headache later.

Step 2: Use Baskets for Sneaky Storage

If you need extra storage (who doesn’t?), baskets are your best friend. They can hide all sorts of things you don’t use daily, like that fondue pot or your holiday-themed cookie cutters. Plus, lining up a few matching baskets creates a clean, uniform look. It’s functional and stylish—a total win-win.

above kitchen cabinet

Step 3: Add Some Greenery

Nothing softens a kitchen like a bit of greenery. I personally love using faux plants up there because, let’s be real, I’m not climbing a ladder every week to water them.

A few cascading plants like a string of pearls or a simple pothos can add life and color without any effort. It’s an instant fix for a sterile-looking kitchen.

Step 4: Make a Statement with Art

This is where you can really show off your personality. A single, large piece of art or a collection of unique pottery can create a stunning focal point.

Got a cool vintage sign or a beautiful ceramic pitcher? Put it up there! It’s way better than letting it collect dust in a closet.

Step 5: Light It Up

Lighting is everything, and this space is no exception. Adding some accent lighting can create a warm, inviting glow and highlight your décor.

I love using simple LED light strips that you can just stick on and plug in. They add a touch of drama and make the whole kitchen feel cozier. Fairy lights also work if you want a more whimsical feel.

Step 6: Rotate Seasonal Items

Want to keep your kitchen feeling fresh? Use this space for seasonal décor. Think small pumpkins and fall foliage in autumn, or some festive garland and ornaments during the holidays. It’s an easy way to switch things up without having to redecorate your entire kitchen.

Extra Tips & Tricks

Here are a few more thoughts from my own trial-and-error decorating adventures:

  • Go Big or Go Home: Seriously. One or two large, oversized pieces will look much better than a bunch of small, cluttered items. It makes the space feel more intentional and less like a random collection of knick-knacks.
  • Stick to a Theme: Remember that look you decided on in Step 1? Stick to it. A cohesive theme will prevent the space from looking chaotic. Whether it’s a color scheme or a style like “farmhouse chic, or kitsch” consistency is key.
  • Choose Washable Items: FYI, the space above your cabinets can get surprisingly dusty and a little greasy. I try to use items that are easy to wipe down. It just makes life easier.
above kitchen cabinet idea

Common Mistakes to Avoid

I’ve seen it all, and trust me, there are a few things you definitely want to avoid when decorating above cabinets.

  • The Knick-Knack Overload: This is the biggest offender. Piling up a random assortment of small trinkets just creates visual clutter. Less is almost always more here.
  • Ignoring Scale and Lighting: Using tiny items in a large space will just make them disappear. Likewise, if the area is dark, your beautiful décor won’t even be visible.
  • Using Fragile or Precious Items: That spot is high up and hard to reach. I wouldn’t recommend putting your great-grandmother’s priceless porcelain vase up there. Just saying. 🙂

How to Keep the Area Above Cabinet Clean

Let’s be honest, cleaning up there is a pain. Here’s how I do it without losing my mind.

  1. Line the Cabinets: Before you put anything up, line the top of your cabinets with wax paper or newspaper. When it gets dusty, you just roll it up, toss it, and lay down a new sheet.
  2. Choose Your Moment: I tackle this chore once or twice a year. Pick a day when you have some extra time and energy.
  3. Use a Long-Handled Duster: For regular light dusting, an extendable duster is a lifesaver.
  4. Wipe-Down Day: For a deeper clean, take everything down and give each item a good wipe with a damp cloth. It’s a bit of work, but it’s so satisfying when it’s done.

Your Kitchen’s Final Frontier

above kitchen cabinet decor

So there you have it! That awkward space above your kitchen cabinets doesn’t have to be dead space. Think of it as an extension of your kitchen’s design—a place to add personality, color, and even some much-needed storage. Get creative and have fun with it. Now, go turn that empty space into something you love looking at!

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