How to Decorate Space Above Kitchen Cabinets (Easy Ideas You Can Try Today)

You know that awkward empty space above your kitchen cabinets? It can make your kitchen feel unfinished or dull. You might be wondering how to decorate space above kitchen cabinets and make it feel cozy, stylish, or even useful. The good news is, you can easily turn that forgotten spot into something beautiful. Whether you love plants, baskets, or vintage finds, there are plenty of easy and creative ways to make it look amazing. In this post, you’ll find simple, real-life ideas that anyone can do to decorate above kitchen cabinets.

Choose a Theme That Matches Your Kitchen

The first thing to think about when decorating the space above your kitchen cabinets is choosing a theme that fits your kitchen style. Picking a theme makes everything look pulled together. It helps your decorations look like they belong instead of just being random things placed above the cabinets.

Start by looking at your kitchen’s current design. Is it modern, rustic, farmhouse, classic, or colorful? Once you know your kitchen’s vibe, you can choose decorations that match that style. For example, if your kitchen has a farmhouse look, you can add wooden signs, vintage jars, or old lanterns above your cabinets. If your kitchen is more modern, you might choose clean lines, black and white items, or simple plants.

Think about color too. Try not to mix too many different colors. Stick to two or three that match the rest of your kitchen. This helps the space feel more calm and stylish. Also, think about texture. Mixing textures, like metal, wood, and glass, can give your decorations more interest.

You can also try a seasonal theme. In spring, you might add some flowers or pastel items. In fall, think pumpkins or warm-toned leaves. For holidays, you can even place small decorations like mini trees or string lights.

Another great idea is using items that show off your personality. Maybe you love baking — place old rolling pins or cake stands up there. If you enjoy travel, add souvenirs or framed photos from your favorite trips. The point is to create a space that feels like you.

And remember, less is more. You don’t need to fill every inch. Sometimes a few well-placed pieces that match your theme can make a big impact.

• Choose decorations that match your kitchen’s style
• Stick to two or three main colors
• Mix textures for a richer look
• Add seasonal or holiday items for variety
• Use personal items that show your interests
• Don’t overcrowd — simple is often better

Use Baskets and Boxes for Hidden Storage

Sometimes, the space above your kitchen cabinets can be both pretty and useful. Baskets and decorative boxes are perfect for this. They not only make the area look nice but also give you extra storage space.

First, measure the height between the top of your cabinets and the ceiling. This will help you pick the right size baskets or boxes. You want them to fit well without looking too stuffed or too small. Wicker baskets work great for a cozy or farmhouse feel. Metal or clear bins can give a more modern look. Wooden crates bring in warmth and can match rustic or natural styles.

Once you choose your containers, think about what you can store inside. You can keep extra paper towels, napkins, or party supplies. Store kitchen gadgets you don’t use often or keep seasonal tablecloths and dishware. This helps keep your kitchen less cluttered while also decorating that awkward spot.

Label your boxes if needed. You can use chalkboard labels or small hanging tags to know what’s inside each one. This makes it easier when you need to grab something.

Make sure to keep things neat. If the baskets are overflowing or messy, it will make your kitchen look untidy. Try to use baskets of the same color or style for a uniform look. Or mix two types if you like a more relaxed, creative vibe.

Also, leave a little space between each basket. It gives the decorations room to breathe and doesn’t look too packed. You can also place a few taller items like a vase or plant between the baskets for variety.

• Measure space before buying baskets or boxes
• Choose materials that match your kitchen style
• Use them for storing kitchen items you don’t need daily
• Label boxes for easy access
• Keep baskets neat and not too full
• Mix in a few taller pieces for variety

Add Greenery or Faux Plants for a Fresh Look

Adding greenery is one of the easiest and most beautiful ways to decorate the space above your kitchen cabinets. Plants can bring a fresh and happy feeling to your kitchen. They add color, life, and a sense of calm.

If your kitchen gets a lot of natural light, real plants are a great choice. Try trailing plants like pothos or ivy. These can hang over the edge of the cabinet and soften the hard lines. Snake plants, peace lilies, or small succulents are also good options and don’t need much care.

But if your kitchen doesn’t get much light or you don’t want to worry about watering, faux plants are your best friend. Fake greenery has come a long way. You can find beautiful, realistic-looking plants that don’t need any care and still give that fresh feeling.

Choose a mix of different sizes and shapes. You might place a big leafy plant in the middle and smaller ones on each side. Or mix in hanging plants with upright ones for interest.

You can also add vases with greenery stems, or put small potted herbs in pretty containers. If you like a cleaner look, try lining up a few matching pots or baskets with simple greenery inside.

Make sure not to overdo it. Too many plants can make the space feel crowded. You want it to look natural and balanced, not like a jungle.

If your cabinets are high up and hard to reach, faux plants are especially great. You can set them and forget them. No watering, no mess.

• Use real or fake plants depending on light and care
• Choose trailing plants for a soft, natural look
• Mix plant heights and types for interest
• Try herbs, leafy greens, or simple greenery stems
• Use matching pots for a clean look
• Don’t overcrowd the space

Display Art or Framed Prints for Personality

Using art above your kitchen cabinets is a fun way to show your style and personality. It turns that empty space into a small gallery and gives your kitchen a creative touch.

Start by choosing art that fits the mood of your kitchen. If your kitchen feels cheerful and bright, pick fun, colorful prints. If it’s cozy or vintage, go with old food ads, chalkboard-style art, or farmhouse prints. For a modern space, black-and-white photos or bold abstract pieces work great.

You don’t need to use large frames. Small to medium-sized frames usually work best in the space above cabinets. You can lean them against the wall or hang a few directly above. Mixing frame sizes can add charm and a relaxed feel.

If you’re on a budget, you can print your own art at home. There are many free printables online, like botanical drawings, quotes, or food-themed illustrations. Use cheap frames or paint old ones to match your decor.

You can also mix framed art with other objects. Place a painting next to a plant, or set up a print between two small vases. This makes your decoration look layered and thoughtful.

Another idea is using signs with words or quotes that mean something to you. These could be funny kitchen sayings, warm messages like ‘Gather’ or ‘Home,’ or even signs with your family name.

Try not to crowd too many pictures together. Leave space between frames so each one stands out. And don’t be afraid to change things up now and then to keep it fresh.

• Choose art that fits your kitchen’s mood
• Use small to medium frames
• Lean or hang art for a relaxed look
• Mix in plants or vases with art pieces
• Print your own art for a budget-friendly option
• Add word signs or quotes for warmth

Show Off Collections or Kitchen Decor

If you love collecting things, the space above your kitchen cabinets is a perfect spot to show them off. It adds charm and lets your personality shine in your kitchen.

Think about what you already have. Maybe you collect vintage pitchers, teapots, cookbooks, or even old kitchen tools. Instead of hiding them in a cabinet, display them where they can be seen and enjoyed.

Group similar items together. For example, if you have a few old tins, line them up from one end to the other. Or, if you have colorful bowls or jars, place them in small clusters. Grouping items helps them look more planned and less messy.

Use small stands or risers if you want to vary the heights of your items. This makes everything easier to see and gives your display more interest.

Mix in other decorations to balance your collection. You can add a plant, a sign, or a photo in between your items. This helps break things up and gives your eyes a place to rest.

Make sure your items are clean. Dust tends to collect up there, so wipe everything down every now and then. You can also place your items on trays or placemats. This makes them easier to move when cleaning.

Don’t feel like everything needs to match perfectly. A little mix-and-match can make the space more fun and inviting. Just try to keep the overall look neat and not too crowded.

• Display things you collect and love
• Group similar items together
• Use stands or risers to show items better
• Mix in plants or signs for balance
• Keep everything clean and dust-free
• Try mix-and-match styles carefully

Add Lighting to Highlight the Decor

Lighting can make a huge difference when decorating the space above your kitchen cabinets. It helps highlight your decorations and gives your kitchen a warm and cozy glow.

There are many ways to add light to that space. One simple way is to use LED strip lights. You can stick them behind the cabinet trim, and they light up the whole area. They’re safe, cheap, and easy to install. You can also get LED lights that change color or dim.

Another option is to use small puck lights. These are round lights that you can place behind decorations or inside baskets with holes. Some even come with a remote so you can turn them on and off easily.

You can also hang small string lights or fairy lights. These give a soft, magical glow and are great for a warm, cozy feeling. Choose battery-powered ones to make it simple.

Think about what kind of light you want. Warm lights (yellow tone) feel soft and relaxing. Cool lights (white tone) are brighter and more modern. Pick the one that fits your kitchen’s style best.

Make sure the light isn’t too strong or too dim. It should softly highlight your decor, not blind you or be too weak to see. Try it out in the evening and adjust as needed.

Also, keep the wiring hidden if you can. Use clips or adhesive holders to keep cords neat and out of view.

• Use LED strips for an easy glow
• Try puck lights for spot lighting
• Add string lights for a cozy feel
• Choose warm or cool light tones based on your kitchen
• Keep wires hidden and neat
• Light should highlight, not overpower

Final Thoughts

Decorating the space above your kitchen cabinets doesn’t have to be hard. With a little creativity, you can turn that empty area into something beautiful, personal, and even useful. Whether you use plants, baskets, art, or lights, it’s all about making your kitchen feel more like home. Take your time, try different ideas, and have fun with it. That space above your cabinets is not just a gap — it’s a chance to add charm and warmth to your whole kitchen.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is it okay to decorate above kitchen cabinets with real plants?

Yes, it’s okay to decorate above your cabinets with real plants, especially if your kitchen has good natural light. Plants like pothos, ivy, or snake plants do well in that kind of space. Just make sure you can reach them easily to water and trim them. If your kitchen doesn’t get much sunlight or the area is hard to reach, you can use fake plants instead. They look nice and don’t need care. It all depends on your lifestyle and how much time you want to spend taking care of them.

Can I use that space for kitchen storage?

Yes, you can definitely use the space above your kitchen cabinets for storage. It’s a smart way to store things you don’t use every day, like party platters, extra paper goods, or seasonal items. Use baskets or decorative boxes to keep it tidy. Make sure whatever you store is lightweight and safe to keep up high. Label the boxes if needed, so you can find things later. Just don’t fill the whole space too much, or it might start to look cluttered instead of nice.

Do I need to decorate every inch of the space?

No, you don’t need to fill every inch of space. In fact, it’s better if you don’t. Leaving some empty spots makes the area feel more open and less crowded. Pick a few nice items and place them with space in between. This helps each decoration stand out. Sometimes just two or three larger items look better than many small ones. Think balance, not filling. The space above your cabinets should look calm and finished, not stuffed or overwhelming.

Is it hard to clean decor above kitchen cabinets?

It can be a little tricky to clean decor up there because dust collects easily. But if you keep it simple, it’s not too bad. Use a step stool to reach and dust things off with a cloth or duster every few weeks. If you want to make cleaning easier, place your decor on trays or use wipeable materials. Avoid using paper or fabric that traps dust. Baskets with lids also help because the inside stays cleaner. Just plan to clean every now and then to keep it looking fresh.

Can I decorate with lights safely above the cabinets?

Yes, you can decorate with lights safely if you use the right kind. LED lights are the best because they stay cool and don’t use much power. Stick-on LED strips, puck lights, or battery-powered string lights are great choices. Just make sure to keep wires tucked away neatly so they don’t hang or get too hot. Don’t use candles or anything with an open flame up there. If you follow basic safety rules, lighting can be a safe and beautiful way to decorate the space above your cabinets.

Do I need to follow a theme for decorating?

You don’t have to, but following a theme makes everything look more pulled together. A theme helps your decorations match each other and fit your kitchen’s style. It could be anything — farmhouse, beachy, modern, vintage, or even just a color scheme. A good theme makes your decor feel planned and stylish, not random. But if you love a mix of things and it feels right to you, that’s fine too. Your kitchen should reflect your taste and make you happy when you see it.

Is it better to decorate with useful items?

Sometimes, yes! Decorating with useful items is a great idea if you need more storage. It also makes your decor more practical. For example, you can store party dishes in pretty baskets or line up cookbooks and nice jars. This way, your decorations are both pretty and functional. But it’s okay to use some things just because they look nice. A mix of pretty and useful usually works best. That way, your space is both stylish and smart.

Can I change the decor often?

Yes, changing the decor often can keep your kitchen feeling fresh. You can switch it up with the seasons — flowers in spring, leaves in fall, or holiday decorations in winter. You can also change colors or themes when you feel like it. If your decor is easy to move, like signs, plants, or small baskets, it’s simple to swap things out. It’s a fun way to keep your kitchen feeling new without doing a big remodel. Just make sure it’s safe and easy to reach when you want to update things.