How To Decorate Space Above Cabinets

How To Decorate the Space Above Cabinets

The space above kitchen cabinets often presents a decorating dilemma. Left bare, it can feel unfinished, while over-decorating can create a cluttered look. This area offers a unique opportunity to add personality and style to a kitchen, enhance storage, or create visual interest. Careful consideration of the existing kitchen design and the homeowner's preferences is key to achieving a balanced and aesthetically pleasing result.

Embrace Practical Storage

For those seeking additional storage, the space above cabinets can be effectively utilized. Items used less frequently, such as seasonal serving dishes or small appliances, can be stored in attractive baskets or containers. Matching containers create a cohesive and organized appearance, while clear containers allow for easy identification of contents. Opting for containers with airtight seals can further protect stored items from dust and potential kitchen grease.

When selecting storage solutions, consider the cabinet color and overall kitchen style. Wicker baskets can complement a farmhouse or rustic kitchen, while sleek metal or acrylic containers suit a modern or contemporary design. It's essential to choose containers that are appropriately sized for the space, avoiding overcrowding or creating an unbalanced visual effect. Labeling containers clearly ensures efficient retrieval of stored items.

Showcase Decorative Items

The area above kitchen cabinets can be transformed into a display area for decorative items. Collections of pottery, vintage cookbooks, or decorative plates can add a personalized touch. Grouping similar items together creates a more impactful visual display. Consider varying the heights of displayed objects to create a dynamic and engaging arrangement.

When incorporating decorative items, it's important to maintain a sense of balance and avoid cluttering the space. Too many items can create a distracting and overwhelming effect. Choose items that complement the existing kitchen decor and color scheme. For example, in a kitchen with a neutral color palette, pops of color can be introduced through decorative objects. In a kitchen with a more vibrant color scheme, neutral-toned decorative items can create a sense of balance.

Create Visual Interest with Greenery

Introducing greenery above kitchen cabinets can add a refreshing and natural element to the space. Trailing plants, such as pothos or ivy, can soften the lines of the cabinets and create a sense of height. Faux plants offer a low-maintenance alternative while still providing visual appeal. When using live plants, ensure adequate lighting and consider the ease of watering and maintenance.

Strategically placed plants can draw the eye upward and create a feeling of spaciousness. Larger plants can be placed at the corners or ends of the cabinets, while smaller plants can be interspersed throughout. Consider using a variety of plant sizes and textures to create visual interest. For a cohesive look, choose planters that complement the kitchen's existing decor. Ensure the planters are securely placed to prevent accidental falls.

Extend the Backsplash

Extending the kitchen backsplash up to the ceiling and over the cabinets creates a unified and visually appealing look. This option can make the kitchen appear taller and more spacious. The choice of backsplash material should complement the existing countertops and cabinetry. A continuous backsplash can also simplify cleaning and protect the wall from splatters and grease.

When selecting a backsplash material for above the cabinets, consider the overall aesthetic of the kitchen. Subway tile offers a classic and timeless look, while mosaic tiles can add a touch of artistry. Mirrored backsplashes can create an illusion of depth and reflect light, making the kitchen appear brighter. The grout color should complement the tile and the overall kitchen color scheme.

Install Additional Lighting

Installing lighting above kitchen cabinets can serve both functional and aesthetic purposes. Task lighting can illuminate countertops and improve visibility during food preparation, while accent lighting can highlight decorative items and create a warm and inviting ambiance. Consider using LED strip lights for a sleek and modern look or puck lights for a more focused illumination.

When choosing lighting, consider the existing kitchen lighting and the desired effect. Warm white light creates a cozy and inviting atmosphere, while cool white light offers a more contemporary feel. Dimmer switches allow for adjustable lighting levels, providing flexibility for different tasks and moods. Properly installed lighting can enhance the overall aesthetic appeal of the kitchen and improve functionality.

Consider Architectural Details

Adding architectural details, such as crown molding or a small shelf, can create visual interest and enhance the overall design of the kitchen. Crown molding provides a finishing touch and adds a sense of elegance, while a small shelf can be used to display decorative items or store cookbooks. These details can help to tie the space above the cabinets into the overall kitchen design.

When choosing architectural details, consider the existing architectural style of the home and the desired aesthetic. Simple crown molding complements a more traditional or transitional style, while more ornate molding suits a more formal or classical design. A small shelf can be painted to match the cabinets or stained to create a contrasting accent. Carefully chosen architectural details can enhance the overall visual appeal of the kitchen and create a more cohesive and polished look.