6 Ideas to Decorate Above Upper Kitchen Cabinets

You may find yourself struggling with what to do with the space above your upper kitchen cabinets. It's a common dilemma for homeowners who are looking to add more personality and style to their kitchen design, but aren’t sure what to do in the odd space. 

It can be costly to have your upper cabinets extended to reach the ceiling. It can also be unnecessary to change out solid wood doors for glass doors or fully remove upper cabinets to add shelving.

While you could leave the space empty and focus your decor on your countertops, adding decorative pieces on top of your upper kitchen cabinets can help draw eyes up the room and make the room feel larger.

Fortunately, there are numerous creative possibilities to explore that can elevate the aesthetic appeal of your kitchen while also maximizing functionality. 

As a professional cabinet refinishing and painting company in Omaha, Nebraska, we understand the importance of every detail in transforming your kitchen into a space that truly reflects your taste and lifestyle. 

In this article, we'll share expert tips and ideas to help you make the most of the space above your upper cabinets.

1. Adding Greenery To Upper Kitchen Cabinets

Bring a touch of nature into your kitchen by incorporating potted plants or artificial greenery above your upper cabinets. 

Not only does this add a refreshing element to the space, but it also softens the overall look and helps to bridge the gap between your cabinets and the ceiling. 

Choose low-maintenance plants that thrive in indoor environments, such as pothos, snake plants, or philodendrons, to ensure easy upkeep. (We don't judge if you go the artificial route).

Hanging plants look stunning draping down over the kitchen cabinets. Just be sure to dust them regularly and don’t leave them in the same spot for too long.

2. Baskets or Bins on Upper Kitchen Cabinets

Maximize storage potential while adding visual interest by using decorative baskets or bins atop your cabinets. 

These can be utilized to store items like cookbooks, extra dish towels, or small kitchen appliances, keeping them within easy reach while maintaining a clutter-free appearance. Or simply just have them for show!

Opt for woven baskets or textural stylish bins that complement your kitchen decor for a cohesive look.

3. Adding Artwork Above Upper Cabinets

Transform the space above your upper cabinets into a gallery wall with artwork or decorative plates. 

This allows you to showcase your personal style and infuse character into your kitchen design. Choose pieces that resonate with you, whether it's vibrant abstract paintings, vintage-inspired prints, or ornate ceramic plates. Be mindful of scale and spacing to ensure a visually pleasing arrangement.

4. Incorporate Lighting Above Kitchen Cabinets

Illuminate your kitchen and create ambiance by installing LED strip lighting above your upper cabinets. This not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of the space but also serves a practical purpose by providing subtle additional task lighting. 

LED strip lights come in various lengths and colors, allowing you to customize the ambiance to suit your preferences. You can also consider installing dimmer switches for added control over lighting intensity.

5. Decorative Objects On Upper Kitchen Cabinets

Infuse your personality into the space above your upper cabinets with decorative objects that reflect your style and interests. This could include vases, candle holders, sculptures, or other eclectic finds. 

Choose items that complement your existing decor and contribute to the overall aesthetic of your kitchen. 

Keep in mind balance, carefully arrange items above your upper cabinets. Be sure to not include anything too small, that won’t be easily seen. Don't be afraid to experiment with different arrangements until you find the perfect look.

Avoid overcrowding the space and ensure that items are proportionate to the size of your cabinets. Pay attention to height, scale, and spacing to create a cohesive and visually pleasing display that enhances the overall aesthetic of your kitchen.

6. Seasonal Decor on Kitchen Cabinets

Celebrate the changing seasons and holidays by incorporating seasonal decor above your upper cabinets. 

From festive garlands to themed decorations, seasonal accents can instantly refresh the look of your kitchen and create a warm, inviting atmosphere. 

Consider investing in versatile pieces that can be easily swapped out throughout the year to keep your kitchen decor feeling current and relevant.

Conclusion

With these creative ideas and expert tips, you can transform the space above your upper cabinets into a stylish and personalized area that adds character and charm to your kitchen. 

Whether you choose to incorporate greenery, artwork, collections, or decorative objects, the key is to infuse your personality into the design while maintaining a sense of balance and cohesion. 

As a professional cabinet refinishing and painting company, Brush & Roll Painting is here to help you bring your vision to life and create a kitchen that reflects your unique style.

To prepare for your project, download our free checklist for cabinet refinishing projects. This guide will help you navigate your project so you don’t feel stressed or overwhelmed while you invest in your home.