Creative Ways To Decorate Above Your Kitchen Cabinets

The space above kitchen cabinets is often overlooked, but it presents an opportunity to add a personal touch to your kitchen. Whether you opt for a vintage, farmhouse, or modern look, there are numerous ways to decorate this space. From installing statement light fixtures to displaying vintage kitchenware, the options are endless. Some choose to leave this space blank, but for those who want to maximise storage and visual appeal, decorating above kitchen cabinets is a great solution.

Plants and flowers

If you do decide to go with real plants, choose ones that are easy to take care of, such as an ivy, spider plant, or philodendron. You can also add some herbs to your arrangement for some freshness without too much extra work. When decorating with plants and flowers, consider balance, colour coordination, and varying heights. Mix and match high-quality blooms and lifelike foliage for the best look.

If you're designing a kitchen from scratch, you might want to forgo the space above your kitchen cabinets altogether and instead opt for custom-built cabinets that reach the ceiling. However, if you do have space above your cabinets, you can place planters on top of them. Trailing plants can add an organic touch to the space, and hanging plants can trail down over one side, balancing the stems on an island or counter below.

If you're looking to add a rustic touch to your kitchen, you can display plants and flowers in rustic baskets or vintage objects made from materials such as wood or metal. Alternatively, if you want to create a bold statement, you can display colourful glassware and plants on top of your cabinets.

Baskets and trays

Baskets are a versatile and functional way to decorate above kitchen cabinets, adding both texture and warmth to the space. They come in a variety of sizes, shapes, and materials, including wicker, metal, and wire, allowing for numerous decorative options. For instance, you can create a cohesive look by using a collection of round baskets with similar colours. Alternatively, mix and match different types of baskets to create a unique design. For a rustic or farmhouse-style kitchen, consider using rustic baskets or vintage objects made of wood or metal. For a more neutral look, opt for wicker baskets.

When decorating with baskets, it's important to consider balance and avoid overcrowding. Leave some empty space between the decorations to prevent a cluttered appearance. Additionally, try grouping baskets with other items such as vases, planters, or cookbooks to create a curated and styled look. For example, place a large basket between two cabinet sections to balance small objects and create a sense of symmetry.

Trays are another versatile item that can be used for decorating above kitchen cabinets. Layering trays of different shapes, sizes, and materials can create a unique and curated look. For instance, you can layer a dark wood rectangular tray behind a round tray with a handle. Trays can also be used to display other items such as plants or decorative letters. Mounting trays on plate stands or shelves can add stability and enhance their visual appeal.

When using trays for decoration, it's important to consider the overall design and colour scheme of your kitchen. Choose trays that complement the style and colour palette of your space for a cohesive and intentional look. Additionally, ensure that the trays are securely placed and within a safe distance from the kitchen cupboards below.

Vintage items

Vintage picture frames are a great way to add a touch of vintage charm. You can find these at thrift stores and vary the shapes and heights for a collected look, or space them out equally for a more simple and cohesive look. If you find frames with an ugly colour, you can use rub 'n' buff to refresh the metal tone. Antique brass frames are a great option for a vintage aesthetic.

Vintage kitchen tools and objects can also be displayed above your cabinets. Items like milk jugs, copper pans, or even a collection of copper pieces can add an interesting layer of authenticity to your kitchen. Vintage mirrors are another option to consider, as they can bounce light around for an airy, bright look.

Vintage books are another way to fill the space above your cabinets. You can also add vintage glass bottles, jars, and vases to create a rustic character. Blue glass bottles, apothecary jars, and vintage herb jars can be used to store spices and oils, adding both function and style to your kitchen.

If you're looking for a more natural, rustic aesthetic, consider wicker baskets, mason jars, or rustic pottery. These items are lightweight and practical, and can be easily found at thrift stores or flea markets. Grouping these items together can create an appealing display.

Statement lighting

There are a few ways to add statement lighting above your kitchen cabinets. One way is to use LED light strips. These can be set into recesses within the shelves or cabinetry, and angled at 45 degrees back towards the wall to achieve the best lighting effect and prevent garish reflections. LED lights cast a soft glow that is perfect for task lighting and illuminating workspaces or display areas. They are also cool to the touch, have a less intrusive design, and are easier to manoeuvre.

Another option is to flank your range with a pair of oversized swing-arm sconces, or if you don't like the oversized look, you can install a series of spotlight sconces across the length of your upper cabinets. Pendant lights with exposed bulbs or vintage-inspired chandeliers can also create a cozy and welcoming ambiance. If you want something playful, you can opt for paper lanterns, marquee signs, or retro café lights.

Wallpaper and tiling

If you're looking to decorate the space above your kitchen cabinets with wallpaper and tiling, there are several ways to go about it. One option is to use peel-and-stick wallpaper, which is a simple and non-committal way to add a decorative touch to your kitchen. You can choose a wallpaper print that complements your kitchen's colour scheme, or go bold and use wallpaper to give your kitchen a theme. Alternatively, opt for brick wallpaper to achieve a cool, industrial effect, especially if you want to balance out a sleek and modern kitchen.

If you're feeling more adventurous, you can wallpaper both your backsplash and walls. This approach can create a seamless, cohesive look, especially if you continue your backsplash tile above your upper cabinets. For a unique twist, consider illustrated kitchen wallpaper with nature themes, which can add a layer of visual interest without overwhelming narrow spaces.

To add depth and dimension, consider using an accent colour above eye level. This simple addition can create a strong contrast without being overpowering, drawing the eye upward for a dramatic visual surprise. If you're looking to make a statement, consider installing floating shelves to display glassware, sculptures, vases, and other reflective materials that will shine when exposed to natural or artificial light.

Decorating above kitchen cabinets is a great way to fill the space with attractive features, so don't shy away from using wallpaper and tiling to achieve the kitchen of your dreams.

Frequently asked questions