10 Above Kitchen Cabinet Decor Ideas You Need To See
If you’re wondering whether decorating the space above your kitchen cabinets is still trendy, or how to make it work for your home, you’re in the right place. I’ve gathered my 10 favorite above kitchen cabinet decor ideas, plus answers to common questions about this space, so you can style it with confidence. Let’s dive in!
Is Decorating Above Kitchen Cabinets Outdated?
Honestly, I used to wonder the same thing! For a while, decorating above kitchen cabinets was super popular, then it felt a bit old-school. But here’s the thing — above kitchen cabinet decor is totally not outdated if you do it thoughtfully. It’s all about keeping things fresh and intentional. Instead of just filling the space with random stuff, now it’s about picking meaningful, stylish pieces that complement your kitchen vibe. A few well-chosen plants, baskets, or even art can make this space feel like a chic extension of your kitchen instead of just a dust collector.
How To Decorate Above Upper Kitchen Cabinets?
This is where you can really get creative with your above kitchen cabinet decor! First, think about scale — tall objects like vases, stacked baskets, or layered artwork work great because they fill the vertical space. I like mixing textures and colors: natural woven baskets for warmth, some greenery for life, and maybe some ceramic or glass pieces for interest. Lighting helps too — adding a small LED strip or fairy lights can highlight your decor beautifully. Keep it curated, not cluttered. If your kitchen ceiling is high, consider larger pieces to balance the space.
What Is The Thing Above Cabinets Called?
Great question! That space or structure above your kitchen cabinets usually doesn’t have a super specific name, but most people call it the “cabinet top” or simply the “space above the cabinets.” If you have a trim or molding on top of the cabinets, that’s called “crown molding.” Some kitchens have a soffit — a boxed-in area running above cabinets, often used to hide ductwork or wiring. But in terms of decor, when we say above kitchen cabinet decor, we mean the styling and objects placed on that open space above the cabinets.
What To Put In Top Kitchen Cabinets?
If your kitchen has glass-front upper cabinets, the “top” or upper shelves inside those cabinets are perfect for displaying pretty dishes, glassware, or collectibles you don’t use daily but want to show off. For closed cabinets, the top shelves are great for storing less-used kitchen appliances, seasonal items, or bulk pantry goods. When it comes to above kitchen cabinet decor, outside the cabinets, I love using that space for decorative baskets for extra storage, plants for a pop of green, or even framed prints and cookbooks stacked horizontally. Just remember to keep things light and dust-friendly!
Above Kitchen Cabinet Decor Ideas You’ll Love:
1. Above Kitchen Cabinet Decor Idea: Layered Greenery and Natural Baskets
I adore how greenery instantly breathes life into this space. Pairing faux trailing plants with woven baskets creates a cozy, earthy look. The mix of textures — rattan, wood, ceramic — makes it feel natural and inviting.
Design Tip
Layer different basket shapes and sizes to add depth. Keep some breathing room between items so it doesn’t feel too crowded.
To Recreate This Look
Grab baskets in various sizes from thrift stores or online. Use faux pothos or ivy for easy maintenance. Add ceramic pots in neutral tones for balance.
2. Above Kitchen Cabinet Decor Idea: Vintage Jars and Warm Lighting
Warm string lights woven through vintage glass jars and kitchen tools add a nostalgic, cozy glow. This look feels lived-in and welcoming, especially for those cozy nights in the kitchen.
Design Tip
Mixing old collectibles with soft lighting creates warmth and invites lingering conversations.
To Recreate This Look
Search flea markets for glass jars and antique items. Use battery-operated warm LED string lights tucked between decor.
3. Above Kitchen Cabinet Decor Idea: Bold Colored Pottery and Artwork
Adding a pop of color with cobalt blue pottery and abstract prints livens up the space above your cabinets. It’s a great way to inject energy and personality.
Design Tip
Bold colors draw the eye upward and add vibrancy without overwhelming.
To Recreate This Look
Look for brightly colored ceramics and large framed prints you can lean casually behind decor.
4. Above Kitchen Cabinet Decor Idea: Rustic Crates with Greenery and Kitchen Tools
Stacking wooden crates and filling them with faux eucalyptus and vintage kitchen tools creates farmhouse charm and dimension.
Design Tip
Crates add structure and height variation, making the decor feel layered and cozy.
To Recreate This Look
Find rustic crates and stack them in creative ways. Fill with greenery and antique kitchen items.
5. Above Kitchen Cabinet Decor Idea: Monochrome Minimalism
For a clean look, I love white ceramic vases and neutral books. This keeps the area light, airy, and sophisticated.
Design Tip
Stick to a monochrome palette to keep the space feeling calm and cohesive.
To Recreate This Look
Use white or cream ceramics, stack neutral-toned cookbooks, and add subtle metallic accents.
6. Above Kitchen Cabinet Decor Idea: Seasonal Decor with Mini Pumpkins and String Lights
I switch my above kitchen cabinet decor seasonally — mini pumpkins and warm string lights in fall, greenery and seashells in summer — to keep things fresh.
Design Tip
Seasonal decor keeps your kitchen feeling festive and updated without much effort.
To Recreate This Look
Pick up seasonal faux decor pieces and add battery-operated string lights with timers.
7. Above Kitchen Cabinet Decor Idea: Open Shelf Illusion with Pretty Plates and Cookbooks
Want the look of open shelving without the work? Styling above kitchen cabinets with pretty plates, bowls, and cookbooks creates that inviting layered look.
Design Tip
Stack dishes and books with space to create dimension and casual charm.
To Recreate This Look
Use your nicest dishes and attractive cookbooks, arranging thoughtfully.
8. Above Kitchen Cabinet Decor Idea: Leaned Large Art Pieces
Leaning large framed prints or canvases gives a modern and easy chic look that’s perfect if you want minimal fuss.
Design Tip
Leaning art keeps things casual and allows for easy swaps.
To Recreate This Look
Choose art that matches your kitchen’s style and place securely behind cabinets.
9. Above Kitchen Cabinet Decor Idea: Colorful Glass Bottles and Vintage Vases
Collecting colorful glass bottles and vintage vases adds sparkle and personality. The light catching the glass makes the space shine.
Design Tip
Glass adds elegance and color without heaviness.
To Recreate This Look
Gather bottles in various colors and sizes, grouping them in clusters.
10. Above Kitchen Cabinet Decor Idea: Personal Collections Displayed Stylishly
Use the space to display personal collections — whether cookbooks, travel souvenirs, or quirky kitchen gadgets — to make the kitchen truly yours.
Design Tip
Personal items bring warmth and make the space feel inviting.
To Recreate This Look
Choose a theme and arrange items by size and color, balancing with plants or candles.
FAQs About Above Kitchen Cabinet Decor
How High Should Above Kitchen Cabinet Decor Be?
Ideally, your decor should not touch the ceiling but fill the space comfortably — about 12 to 18 inches of vertical height works well to create impact without overwhelming.
What Are The Best Items For Above Kitchen Cabinet Decor?
Lightweight baskets, faux greenery, ceramics, vintage kitchen tools, and framed prints all work well. Avoid heavy or fragile items that can be difficult to clean or maintain.
How To Clean Above Kitchen Cabinet Decor?
Keep dust at bay by regularly wiping items with a microfiber cloth or using a handheld vacuum with a brush attachment. Use faux plants to avoid watering hassles.
Is It Safe To Put Items Above Kitchen Cabinets?
Yes, as long as you ensure items are secure and won’t fall, especially if you have kids or pets. Use museum putty or non-slip pads for extra safety.
Conclusion
Above kitchen cabinet decor isn’t outdated — it’s an exciting way to add style, texture, and personality to your kitchen. Whether you go for greenery, vintage finds, bold colors, or personal collections, this space is a hidden gem waiting for your creativity.
Which above kitchen cabinet decor idea are you excited to try? Share your photos or questions with me — I’d love to see your kitchen transformations!