What to Put on Top of Kitchen Cabinets: Creative Ideas to Maximize Space

When it comes to decorating your kitchen, the space above your kitchen cabinets often goes overlooked. Whether you have tall cabinets almost touching the ceiling or a few inches of empty space, utilizing this area can enhance your kitchen’s aesthetic and make it feel complete. So, what should you put on top of kitchen cabinets to create a stylish and cohesive look? Let’s explore some creative ideas to make the most of this often-unused space.

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Make Use of Greenery

Adding faux plants or small potted greenery is one of the easiest ways to decorate above kitchen cabinets. Greenery adds a pop of color and a touch of life to your kitchen without requiring constant maintenance. Faux plants are especially ideal for areas that may be hard to water or reach. Trailing ivy or string-of-pearls plants can create a lush, cascading effect that softens the hard lines of your cabinetry.

Incorporate Decorative Baskets or Boxes

Woven baskets or decorative boxes are perfect for adding texture and functionality to the space above your upper cabinets. These storage solutions can be both beautiful and practical. Use them to store rarely used items like seasonal tableware or specialty kitchen tools. Choosing what to put on top of kitchen cabinets, like baskets, ensures both form and function.

Display Art or Photographs

The top of your kitchen cabinets can also serve as a mini gallery. Framed artwork, family photos, or even small canvases can add a personal touch to your kitchen. Consider coordinating the art’s color palette with your kitchen’s overall design for a cohesive look.

Use Statement Pieces

If you want to make a bold impression, consider placing oversized statement pieces on top of your cabinets. Large vases, antique bowls, or unique sculptures can draw the eye upward and add character to your kitchen. This is an excellent option for those with a modern or eclectic design style.

Add a Touch of Light

Installing LED strip lights or small accent lamps above your cabinets can add a warm, inviting glow to your kitchen. This technique works especially well in kitchens with high ceilings or darker color schemes, as it helps brighten the space while creating a cozy, contemporary atmosphere. Lighting can also highlight any decorative items you choose when deciding what to put on top of kitchen cabinets.

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Display Collectibles or Themed Decor

If you have a collection of small items, the space above your kitchen cabinets is the perfect place to showcase them. Whether it’s vintage teapots, colorful ceramics, or a themed set of kitchen decor, displaying these items can infuse your kitchen with personality and charm. Arrange them thoughtfully to avoid a cluttered look, leaving some space between items for balance.

Incorporate Seasonal Decor

Consider updating the decor above your cabinets to match the seasons or holidays for a touch of festivity. Garlands, small pumpkins, or twinkling lights can make your kitchen feel on-themed and welcoming. Seasonal decor keeps your space looking fresh and dynamic throughout the year.

Utilize Books or Cookbooks

Stacking books or cookbooks above your cabinets can create a cozy, lived-in look. This type of display is a particularly good option if you’re an avid cook or collector of culinary books. Choose books with attractive spines to add visual interest, and consider mixing them with small decorative objects for a curated display.

Keep It Minimal

If you prefer a clean and streamlined look, you can keep the space above your kitchen cabinetry minimal. Opt for one or two carefully chosen pieces, such as a large plant or a sleek sculpture. This approach works exceptionally well in kitchens with modern or minimalist designs, where less is often more.

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Close the Gap

For those who dislike the gap between the cabinets and the ceiling, filling it with decorative crown molding can be an elegant solution. This approach eliminates the need for decor while giving your kitchen a polished and finished appearance. Alternatively, extend your cabinetry to the ceiling for added storage and a seamless look.

Consider Practical Storage Solutions

In smaller kitchens, every inch of space counts. Use the area above your cabinets to store large but lightweight items like extra trays or serving platters. Ensure the items are neatly arranged to maintain an organized and stylish look. Knowing what to put on top of kitchen cabinets can help maximize storage without sacrificing aesthetics.

Be Mindful of Proportions

When decorating above your cabinets, balance is key. Avoid overcrowding the space or using decor items that are too small for the scale of your kitchen cabinetry. Choose pieces that complement the height and style of your cabinets, and arrange them thoughtfully to create a cohesive look.

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Add Texture with Natural Materials

Natural materials like wood, rattan, or clay can bring warmth and texture to your kitchen. Display wooden bowls, terracotta pots, or woven trays to add depth and visual interest to the space above your cabinets. These materials pair well with almost any kitchen design, from rustic to contemporary.

Turn Your Kitchen into a Masterpiece

Transforming the space above your kitchen cabinets can elevate your kitchen’s overall design and make it feel more personalized. The possibilities are endless, from greenery and baskets to lighting and statement pieces. The key is to choose items that reflect your style and work harmoniously with your kitchen’s aesthetic.

If you’re ready for a complete kitchen makeover or need help designing custom kitchen cabinetry that complements your decor, Red Rose Cabinetry is here to help. We can create a beautiful and functional kitchen with our expert craftsmanship and wide range of design options. Contact us today to start bringing your vision to life!

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