Modern Ideas For Decorating Above Kitchen Cabinets

The space above kitchen cabinets often gets overlooked in home design. However, this area presents a unique opportunity to enhance the aesthetic of your kitchen and showcase your personal style. Beyond practicality, decorating above kitchen cabinets can add depth, dimension, and a touch of elegance to your culinary haven. This article explores several modern ideas for decorating this often-neglected space, transforming it into a captivating focal point.

Embrace Open Shelving

A modern approach to kitchen décor involves embracing open shelving. Replacing upper cabinets with open shelving creates a sense of spaciousness and allows you to showcase your favorite dishes, glassware, and decorative items. This approach not only adds visual interest but also makes it easier to access frequently used items. Open shelving can be incorporated into various kitchen designs, whether minimalist, contemporary, or rustic. Consider using different wood finishes, metal accents, or glass shelves to create a unique and personalized look.

Incorporate Wall Art

Wall art can dramatically transform the look and feel of your kitchen. Above kitchen cabinets, strategically placed artworks can become the focal point of the space. Modern abstract paintings, minimalist geometric prints, or nature-inspired photographs can inject personality and create a conversation starter. Consider the overall style of your kitchen when selecting artwork. For a contemporary feel, opt for bold colors and geometric patterns. For a more traditional aesthetic, choose muted tones and classic landscapes.

Utilize Decorative Trays

Decorative trays are a versatile tool for organizing and decorating above kitchen cabinets. They can be used to house spices, condiments, or even small appliances. Trays come in various materials like wood, metal, and ceramic, allowing you to match them with your kitchen's overall design. Adding a touch of greenery to the tray with a small succulent or herb plant can add a touch of life and freshen up the space.

Add a Touch of Greenery

Plants can bring a sense of vibrancy and life to any space, and kitchens are no exception. Hanging potted plants above kitchen cabinets offers a practical and visually appealing solution. Smaller succulent plants or trailing foliage can be hung in attractive planters or macrame holders. These plants not only add a touch of nature but also purify the air, creating a healthier and more refreshing kitchen environment.

Enhance with Lighting

Proper lighting can significantly impact the ambiance and functionality of a kitchen. Consider incorporating lighting elements above kitchen cabinets to highlight the space and enhance the overall design. Recessed lighting can provide a clean and modern look, while pendant lights offer a more dramatic and eye-catching effect. Choose light fixtures that complement your kitchen's style and enhance the existing lighting scheme.

Decorate with Mirrors

Mirrors can be a powerful tool for creating the illusion of space and light in a kitchen. A strategically placed mirror above kitchen cabinets can reflect natural light, making the room appear brighter and larger. Mirrors can also add a touch of elegance and create a more sophisticated aesthetic. Consider using a large statement mirror or several smaller mirrors grouped together for a contemporary look.

Embrace a Gallery Wall

For a dynamic and eclectic look, consider creating a gallery wall above kitchen cabinets. This approach allows you to showcase a collection of artwork, photographs, or even vintage plates. Mixing and matching different sizes, frames, and styles can create a unique and personalized display. Consider incorporating a unifying theme, like a color palette, subject matter, or period, to tie the elements together.

Highlight Architectural Features

If your kitchen has unique architectural features, like exposed beams or vaulted ceilings, consider incorporating them into the overall design. Leave them exposed or accentuate them with paint, wallpaper, or decorative molding. These features add character and depth to the space, creating a focal point above the kitchen cabinets.

Consider Texture and Material

Playing with textures and materials can add visual interest and depth to the space above kitchen cabinets. Consider incorporating natural elements like woven baskets, wooden trays, or ceramic serving dishes. Adding a touch of metal or glass can create contrast and a more modern aesthetic. Experiment with different textures to find what works best for your style and preferences.

Keep It Simple

While decorating above kitchen cabinets can enhance the overall design, it's essential to keep it simple and avoid clutter. Choose a few key pieces that complement your kitchen's style and personal preferences. Overcrowding the space can make it appear cramped and chaotic. Remember to prioritize functionality as well as aesthetics to create a kitchen that is both beautiful and practical.