What Should I Put On Top Of Kitchen Cabinets To Decorate Living Room

What Should I Put On Top Of Kitchen Cabinets To Decorate?

The space above kitchen cabinets often presents a decorating dilemma. It's a substantial area that, if left bare, can appear unfinished or neglected. Effectively utilizing this space can visually elevate the entire kitchen, adding depth, character, and a sense of deliberate design. The challenge lies in selecting items that complement the kitchen's existing style, color palette, and overall aesthetic. It requires careful consideration of scale, proportion, and the potential for dust accumulation. A well-decorated cabinet top can transform a kitchen from functional to fabulous, but a poorly executed attempt can create clutter and visual disharmony. This article will explore various decorating options for the space above kitchen cabinets, providing guidance to achieve a stylish and cohesive look.

Considerations Before Decorating

Before embarking on any decorating project for the cabinet tops, several key aspects should be taken into account. These considerations will influence the choice of items and the overall arrangement, leading to a more successful and visually appealing result. Ignoring these factors can lead to a cluttered or unbalanced appearance.

Firstly, evaluate the kitchen's style. Is it modern, traditional, farmhouse, or eclectic? The decorations should harmonize with the existing style, not clash with it. For example, rustic pottery and vintage signs would be appropriate for a farmhouse kitchen, while sleek metallic sculptures might suit a modern kitchen. Maintaining stylistic consistency is crucial for a cohesive look.

Secondly, assess the kitchen's color scheme. The decorations should complement the existing colors, either by matching them directly or by introducing contrasting colors that enhance the overall palette. A predominantly neutral kitchen can benefit from pops of color through the decorations, while a kitchen with bold colors might require more subdued decorations to avoid overwhelming the space.

Thirdly, measure the space above the cabinets. This will determine the size and scale of the decorations. Overly large items can appear bulky and crowded, while overly small items can get lost and appear insignificant. It's essential to choose items that are proportionate to the space and to each other.

Fourthly, consider the ease of cleaning. The space above cabinets tends to accumulate dust and grime, so the decorations should be relatively easy to clean or maintain. Avoid items with intricate details or porous surfaces that are difficult to wipe down. Regularly dusting the decorations is essential to keep them looking their best.

Finally, think about the overall functionality of the kitchen. Avoid placing items above the cabinets that could obstruct access to frequently used items or create a safety hazard. Decorations should enhance the kitchen's functionality, not hinder it.

Decorating Options: A Range of Styles

Once the foundational considerations have been addressed, the exciting part of selecting decorations begins. The options are vast and varied, limited only by personal taste and the constraints of the kitchen's style and space. Each option offers a unique aesthetic and can be tailored to create a personalized look.

One popular option is to use decorative baskets and bins. These are not only visually appealing but also provide additional storage space for items that are not used frequently. Wicker baskets, wire bins, or even painted wooden crates can add texture and visual interest to the cabinet tops. Ensure that the baskets and bins are of varying sizes and shapes to create a more dynamic arrangement. Labeling the contents of the bins can also add a touch of organization and practicality.

Another timeless choice is to display decorative plates and platters. These can be arranged in a variety of ways, either standing upright on plate racks or stacked horizontally. Opt for plates with interesting patterns, colors, or textures that complement the kitchen's overall aesthetic. Vintage plates, hand-painted platters, or even antique china can add a touch of elegance and sophistication. Consider using a unifying theme, such as a particular color or pattern, to tie the plates together.

Greenery, both real and artificial, is another excellent option for adding life and vibrancy to the space above the cabinets. Potted plants, trailing vines, or even simple herb gardens can bring a touch of nature into the kitchen. Faux greenery is a low-maintenance alternative for those who lack a green thumb. Arrange the greenery in a variety of containers, such as terracotta pots, ceramic vases, or even repurposed watering cans, to add visual interest. Be mindful of the lighting conditions and choose plants that are suitable for the environment.

For those who enjoy displaying collections, the cabinet tops can serve as an ideal showcase. Whether it's antique teacups, vintage cookbooks, or ceramic figurines, a carefully curated collection can add personality and character to the kitchen. Arrange the collection in a visually appealing manner, taking into account the size, shape, and color of each item. Use risers or platforms to create different levels and add depth to the display. Avoid overcrowding the space; less is often more when it comes to displaying collections.

Another option is to use decorative signs and artwork. These can add a touch of whimsy or sophistication, depending on the style and subject matter. Choose signs with inspirational quotes, funny sayings, or images that resonate with the kitchen's overall theme. Artwork can range from framed prints and paintings to rustic metal signs and vintage advertisements. Ensure that the signs and artwork are properly secured to prevent them from falling.

Finally, consider using architectural elements to create a more dramatic effect. This could include adding corbels, crown molding, or even decorative shutters. These elements can visually extend the cabinets and create a more finished and polished look. Architectural elements are particularly effective in kitchens with high ceilings, as they help to fill the vertical space.

Arrangement and Styling Tips

Selecting the right decorations is only half the battle. The way the items are arranged and styled is equally important. A well-arranged display can elevate the look of the entire kitchen, while a poorly arranged display can appear cluttered and disorganized. Consider these tips for achieving a visually appealing and balanced arrangement.

Firstly, vary the heights of the objects. Avoid placing all the items at the same level, as this can create a monotonous and uninteresting look. Use risers, platforms, or even stacks of books to create different levels and add visual interest. Varying the heights also allows you to showcase items that might otherwise be obscured.

Secondly, create groupings of objects. Instead of scattering items haphazardly across the cabinet tops, group them together in clusters of two, three, or five. Grouping items creates a sense of unity and intention. Consider grouping items that share a common theme, color, or texture.

Thirdly, leave some negative space. Don't feel the need to fill every inch of the space above the cabinets. Leaving some negative space allows the eye to rest and prevents the display from feeling cluttered. Negative space can also help to highlight individual items and make them stand out.

Fourthly, use the rule of thirds. This is a basic design principle that involves dividing the space into thirds, both horizontally and vertically, and placing key elements at the intersection points. This creates a more balanced and visually appealing composition. You can also use the rule of thirds to guide the placement of groupings of objects.

Fifthly, consider the view from different angles. Walk around the kitchen and observe the display from different perspectives. Make sure that it looks good from all angles, not just from one particular vantage point. This will ensure that the decorations are visually appealing from anywhere in the kitchen.

Finally, don't be afraid to experiment. Try different arrangements and styles until you find something that you love. There are no hard and fast rules when it comes to decorating, so feel free to express your personal style and creativity. Remember that you can always change things up later if you're not happy with the results.