
Even if your kitchen is dark, you can brighten it up by adding natural elements to the space above the cabinets. Adding billowy fern leaves, fake flower stems, and crawling ivy are all popular ways to bring the beauty of the outdoors into your kitchen.
How can I decorate the tops of my Kitchen cabinets?
Stylish Ways To Put The Space Above Your Kitchen Cabinets To Good Use
- Create an intentional display area. Turn the space above the kitchen cabinets into an additional storage area and make it look intentional.
- Decorate with color and pattern. ...
- Add some plants. ...
- Turn this into a part of your storage system. ...
- Set up a mini library. ...
- Think seasonal. ...
- Create groups and clusters of items. ...
- Extend the cabinets. ...
Should you decorate above kitchen cabinets?
Too many people think that anytime a shelf is in sight there needs to be something resting on top of it. I'm sorry, but that's just not true. As a general rule, if you have under 2' of space above kitchen cabinetry, very tall armoires or built-ins, don't decorate the space.
How to decorate above your kitchen cabinets?
How to decorate above kitchen cabinets
- Brick Texture Over Cabinets. I love the idea of making a statement with your backsplash and then carrying that pattern all the way up the wall.
- Add Height to Your Cabinets. ...
- Build Kitchen Cabinets up to the Ceiling. ...
- Decorate above Kitchen Cabinets with an Oversized Sign. ...
- Add a Collection. ...
- Cubbies to Display Favorite Items. ...
- Wine Rack Shelving. ...
How do I choose the best kitchen cabinets?
- Choose kitchen cabinet color depending on the amount of natural light in your kitchen. ...
- Pick high-quality boxes for your cabinets because the box is the heart of your kitchen cabinet. ...
- Pick a kitchen cabinet door style that you like. ...
- Personalize your kitchen cabinets with the right finish and hardware. ...

Do people still decorate on top of kitchen cabinets?
If you have space between your kitchen cabinetry and the ceiling, you can decorate the tops of kitchen cabinets with baskets, vases, cookbooks, and more!
Should you put decorations on top of cabinets?
Is decorating above kitchen cabinets outdated? The short answer is no. There are so many beautiful ways to decorative above kitchen cabinets that will inject modernity, textural interest and decorative style to your kitchen. There are many interesting kitchen styling techniques and designs to chose from.
What can I do with the top of my cabinets?
11 Smart Ways to Use the Space Above Your CabinetsDisplay serving pieces. ... Use canisters to conceal clutter. ... Or bust out the baskets. ... Show off a collection. ... Display cookbooks. ... Store your wine. ... Grow something. ... Add another shelf.More items...•
What should be the with of top kitchen cabinets?
The ideal upper cabinet height is 54 inches above the floor. That is, the bottom edge of the upper cabinets should sit 54 inches off the ground.
Is greenery above kitchen cabinets outdated?
Greenery above cabinets is always in style! That is, of course, if you have a green thumb. No one wants to stare at dead plants above your cabinets. Having a fresh variety of plants is nice and opt for ones that are easy to take care of (ivory, spider plant, philodendron, etc).
How do you dress up kitchen cabinets?
25 Easy Ways to Upgrade Basic Kitchen CabinetsInstall Crown Molding. ... Remove Some Cabinet Doors. ... Add Glass Door Inserts. ... Beautify With Beadboard. ... Make Room for Wine. ... Create Lid Storage. ... Light It Up Under the Cabinets. ... Handy Spice Storage.More items...•
What can I put on top of my upper kitchen cabinets?
Vases, vintage letters, and even books are ideal to display above cabinets. A series of pitchers filled with faux flowers is also an ideal way to fill the void.
How do I decorate the area above my kitchen cabinets?
15 Decorating Ideas for Above Kitchen CabinetsBridge the Gap With a Backsplash. ... Add Texture With Woven Baskets. ... Mirror, Mirror on the Wall. ... Create Killer Contrast. ... Install Over-the-Top Art. ... Create a Cookbook Library. ... Sneak Storage In. ... Pile With Houseplants.More items...
How do you cover the space above kitchen cabinets?
Add plywood to the 2×2 frame above the cabinets Measure the distance between the ceiling and kitchen cabinets. Then, cut a piece of 1/4″ plywood to this size less a 1/4″ so you can easily move it into the space. We actually had our plywood cut at the home improvement store.
Should kitchen cabinets go to 9 foot ceiling?
Ceiling Height A general rule of thumb is for wall cabinets to be mounted so the bottom edge is 54 inches above the floor, which means that an 8-foot-tall ceiling creates 42 inches of available space for wall cabinets, while a 9-foot-tall ceiling has 54 available inches.
Should kitchen units go to the ceiling?
The kitchen cabinets and trim do not go to the ceiling and there is a large open area between the top of the cabinetry and the ceiling. It is not uncommon to see people decorate this open area with wall décor or other items.
How high off the floor should kitchen cabinets be?
This is because the general rule is that kitchen wall cabinets should hang 18 inches above the countertop. So, the standard wall cabinet should be installed 54 inches above the floor.
Should I decorate the top of my refrigerator?
0:091:30How to Decorate the Top of the Fridge for Storage : Home OrganizingYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipAfter cleaning off the top of the fridge of all those little dust bunnies I recommend you useMoreAfter cleaning off the top of the fridge of all those little dust bunnies I recommend you use something like a shelf liner. Or even cling wrap to cover the top of the fridge.
How do you fill space between cabinet and ceiling?
If the gap between your upper cabinets and the ceiling isn't particularly large, you can fill it in with trim running along the top of your upper cabinets. This makes for a cohesive, built-in look, and a lot less potential for collecting dust.
What is the empty space above kitchen cabinets called?
The space between kitchen cabinets and the ceiling is called “Soffit”. A kitchen soffit is specifically a boxy shape designed to cover up pipes, wiring, and other mechanical or to fill the gap between the top cabinets and the ceiling.
Are curio cabinets outdated?
"While the term 'curio cabinet' is a bit old-fashioned, these display cases are appearing more often in modern home designs. They are ideal for living spaces or dining rooms on display for guests and a source for family stories."
What to display above cabinets?
Vases, vintage letters, and even books are ideal to display above cabinets. A series of pitchers filled with faux flowers is also an ideal way to fill the void. You want to make sure, though, that the objects are large enough to see once up high; a collection of salt and pepper shakers, for example, may not be the right scale for that spot. ...
What is the purpose of the space above cabinets?
The space above your cabinets can be built up to serve a specific purpose, like providing extra storage . Cleverly use the area above your cabinets to hold baskets, making for additional storage space in your kitchen.
Where to hang art on wall?
If you have enough room, you can hang items on the wall in the space above your cabinets. Whether it’s framed family photos, mirrors, small macramé creations, or vintage baking or cooking tools, this extra wall space surprisingly caters to wall art of almost any kind—but flea market treasures seem to look even more charming.
Where to keep your collection of items?
You may enjoy collecting certain objects, but you may not have a specified place for them and end up keeping the pieces hidden away in the basement or a closet. If you haven’t been able to find the right place to showcase that collection, look to the space above your cabinets.
Can you put vintage kitchen scales in cabinets?
It may be that there's just not a spot for the extra rolls of paper towels, or the vintage kitchen scale won't fit in a cabinet or on the countertop. That's where the spot above the cabinets comes in handy. Display surplus kitchen necessities, cake stands, and trays, while mixing in a few decorative pieces for visual interest. Stick to one color palate for a streamlined look.
Why put something on top of a cabinet?
Another reason to put something on top of a cabinet is to just top it off, to provide some kind of decorative ornament or architectural piece that's missing from the cabinet. A flourish. These are perfect examples below.
When do you display what you have above the cabinetry?
When you have a really amazing collection of something, and you really, really, really want people to see it , displaying what you have above the cabinetry can be appropriate.
Why wouldn't I put a collection of vases in a line, up high?
For example: I wouldn’t put a collection of vases in a line, up high, if they were all of different color and value (lightness/darkness), because it would create a spotty type of visual effect and ruin the purpose.
How much space do you need above cabinets?
As a general rule, if you have under 2' of space above kitchen cabinetry, very tall armoires or built-ins, don't decorate the space. All too often, doing so dates you to the 1990's and the area does nothing but catch dust.
What to do before you display something up high?
Before you decide to display something up high, stop and take a moment to evaluate why, exactly, you want to do so. Too many people think that anytime a shelf is in sight there needs to be something resting on top of it.
Can you decorate above a cabinet?
Really, there are a few approaches you can take when decorating above a cabinet. So, to make sure one of them really works for you, you first have to determine if you have the right space for what you want to put up there and if you have the right accessories to do the job.
Can you hang artwork on a wall?
Hanging artwork on the wall above a cabinet pretty much does the same thing as all the other suggestions I've mentioned here, however the object is flat and hangs on the wall instead of sitting on top of the cabinet.
How do I keep my kitchen cabinets clean on top?
To keep the top of your kitchen cabinets (and tall armoires, bookcases and storage units) clean, simply tear a sheet the same depth as the cabinet and let it sit. It will collect the greasy, dusty goo that collects and then every few months you can change it out and ditch the collected junk. Easy peasy!
What is a kitchen soffit?
Kitchen cabinet soffits are box-like structures built below the ceiling and above your cabinetry to hide the inner workings of your home, such as wiring and pipes. Soffits may also be used for purely aesthetic purposes to fill the space between the ceiling and kitchen cabinets.
How do you fill the gap between cabinets and ceilings?
If the gap between your upper cabinets and the ceiling isn’t particularly large, you can fill it in with trim running along the top of your upper cabinets. This makes for a cohesive, built-in look, and a lot less potential for collecting dust.
What is the space between kitchen cabinets and ceiling?
The space between kitchen cabinets and the ceiling is called “ Soffit ”. A kitchen soffit is specifically a boxy shape designed to cover up pipes, wiring, and other mechanical or to fill the gap between the top cabinets and the ceiling.
How do you fill empty space in a kitchen?
In a kitchen otherwise covered in cabinetry, a small expanse of blank wall can look a bit awkward and out of place. Take advantage of the space with a stack of floating open shelves. Use them to stash spare cookbooks, dishware, or collectibles.
Why do kitchen cabinets not go to ceiling?
Disadvantages of Kitchen Cabinets That Go All The Way Up to the Ceiling. Ceiling height cabinets are not easy to access as they are very high up in the ceiling. Anything up there at the top of these cabinets is quite hard to access hence you will need to have something to step on in order to reach these things.
What is the trim on top of cabinets called?
Crown molding is decorative trim that is added to the top of your cabinets. The benefit of installing crown molding is that it draws the eye upward, showcasing the elegance of your cabinets. Crown molding can either bond with the ceiling or allow for space above the cabinet.
What to do with gap between upper cabinets and kitchen ceiling?
Don’t think of the gap between your upper cabinets and kitchen ceiling as a challenge. Think of it as a golden opportunity. Specifically, a golden opportunity that allows you to splurge on statement-making light fixtures. Follow interior designer Tiffany Brooks ’ lead and flank your range with a pair of oversized swing arm sconces. Pro tip: Achieve a dramatic look by selecting light fixtures in a finish or style that pops against your existing wall and cabinet color.
What to do with shadowy gaps in kitchen?
Do like designer Gina Sims and liven up your kitchen with cabinet-top houseplants. Vibrant green hues will brighten the shadowy gap. Pro tip: Since they're so high up, go for faux plants. No watering required.
How to build out gaps in cabinets?
Want to build out the gap without using a single tool to do so? Install a series of savvy storage baskets above your cabinets like Jenn did here. The key is to find storage basket s with a similar color and texture to your cabinet and wall color. Inky woven baskets blend with the moody teal backdrop allowing other elements to shine too.
How to decorate floating shelves?
Use the top of your upper cabinets as a jumping point for floating shelves. Designer Natalie Myers uses this technique here in a timeless midcentury design. To recreate her magic, style your floating shelves with cookbooks, candlesticks, sculptural vases and everyday glassware. Fresh-cut blooms are always a good idea, too.
How to take control of your kitchen?
If your innocent cookbook-hoarding habit leaves you with perpetually cluttered countertops and non-existent counter space , it’s time to take control of your kitchen. Use the gap between your upper cabinets and ceiling to create a custom cookbook library like this beauty by interior designer Jenn Feldman. Not only will adding bookshelves enable you to use your counters, but it will also bring character and height to your kitchen design.
Should you put anything on top of kitchen cabinets?
Decorate With Objects That Blend With The Background – Having decor items on top of a cabinet that blend with the wall can give you the storage and display space you desire, and they won’t dominate the scene or make everything seem top-heavy.
How do you fill the gap between kitchen cabinets and ceiling?
If the gap between your upper cabinets and the ceiling isn’t particularly large, you can fill it in with trim running along the top of your upper cabinets. This makes for a cohesive, built-in look, and a lot less potential for collecting dust.
What is the decorative top of a cabinet called?
Cornice: (sometimes called kitchen crown molding) is the decorative trim that is fitted on top of wall cabinets and full-height cabinets. It comes in different styles, shapes, and sizes, depending on the design of the kitchen. Usually, a more modern square look, or a more ornate traditional look.
What to do with top of kitchen cabinets?
The top of your cabinets are no longer going to be the eyesore of your kitchen. Use your kitchen cabinet tops as a space to stash things you have no room for elsewhere, like picnic baskets, decorative objects, or extra cutting boards. See more at Emily Henderson.
What happens if you have gaps between kitchen cabinets and ceiling?
If you've got a gap between your kitchen cabinets and the ceiling, you've likely spent time literally cursing your architect. But good news: There are plenty of ways to make this space totally functional, or at the very least, look cute. The top of your cabinets are no longer going to be the eyesore of your kitchen.
Can you store wicker bags in the kitchen?
No closet space? No problem. Store your wicker and rattan bags in your kitchen!
What to put in kitchen to warm up?
Love your kitchen! If you think you can reach up there to dust and clean that area, we recommend putting plates, decorative pictures/paintings, or even plants to warm the space up that match the color scheme of your kitchen, similar to this picture:
What to do if it's too plain?
If it's too plain you could put some simple wall sticker with a quote... My favorite (you would have to change the layout):
Can waxed paper be used on cabinets?
I suggest waxed paper rather than paper towels as a "liner" on the top of the cabinets. If there is greas y steam, the paper towels absorb it and might stick to the top of the cabinets, and waxed paper will not .
Do you love your kitchen lyrics?
Love your kitchen!! I'm in dilemma about a farm sink. Do you love yours? I stood at one yesterday and wondered if it was to low or to to close to my body than I'm used too.
Is it safe to say you have done a great job with this kitchen?
Ok my turn. Well it's safe to say you have done a great job with this kitchen And from the sounds of things you are. Very creative and understand your space very well.
Do you put anything on top of cabinets?
However, your kitchen has so many architectural features-the windows, the slanted ceiling, and the cabinets themselves-that I don't think you need anything on the cabinets because there is enough visual interest going on "upstairs," IMO. Just decorating your counters and island with some color will probably be all you need to make your kitchen even more lovely than it already is.
What should I use to decorate the top of my kitchen cabinets?
Some people choose to decorate the top of their kitchen cabinets with vases, plants, or other knick-knacks, while others prefer to keep them clear. Ultimately, it is up to the individual to decide what they would like to use to decorate the top of their kitchen cabinets.
How do you fill the gap between kitchen cabinets and ceiling?
You can fill the gap between the kitchen cabinets and ceiling with caulking.
Why do kitchen cabinets not go to the ceiling?
One reason kitchen cabinets may not go to the ceiling is because of the height of the people using the kitchen. If the cabinets are too high, it can be difficult to reach items stored on the top shelves. Additionally, kitchen cabinets that go all the way to the ceiling can make a room feel cramped.
How can I make my kitchen soffits look better?
One is to paint them a color that contrasts with your walls. Another is to add trim or molding around them.
How do you decorate a space above a cupboard?
One way is to place a wreath or other decorative item on the top of the cupboard. Another way is to hang pictures or other wall decor on the wall above the cupboard.
What do you put on top of kitchen cupboards?
What do you put on top of kitchen cupboards? You can put almost anything on top of your kitchen cupboards, as long as it is not too heavy. Some people put plants, vases, or picture frames on their kitchen cupboards. Others use the space to store extra dish towels or spices.
How do you keep Garland on top of cabinets?
You can keep Garland on top of cabinets by using Command strips or adhesive hooks.
