The space above your kitchen cabinets is often overlooked, but it presents a prime opportunity to add personality and style to your culinary haven. From adding storage solutions to creating captivating focal points, decorating the area above your cabinets can transform your kitchen from ordinary to extraordinary. Let’s explore some design ideas that will inspire you to unlock the potential of this often-forgotten space.
Statement Lighting
Elevate your kitchen’s ambiance with statement lighting above the cabinets. Consider a dramatic chandelier in a modern geometric design, a sleek pendant in polished chrome or brass, or a series of minimalist spotlights for a contemporary look. In the US, minimalist designs with warm lighting are trending, while in the EU, statement chandeliers with a touch of vintage charm are popular choices. For a Scandinavian aesthetic, opt for natural wood pendants with warm, inviting light.
Open Shelving
Open shelving above your cabinets adds visual interest, functionality, and a touch of rustic charm. Paint the shelves in a complementary color to your cabinets or choose a contrasting hue for a bold statement. Showcase your favorite dishware, cookbooks, or decorative objects on the shelves. In the US, white or natural wood open shelves are popular, while in the EU, darker wood tones with a distressed finish are often preferred. For a modern touch, use sleek metal brackets for the shelves.
Gallery Wall
Create a visually captivating gallery wall above your cabinets by displaying a curated collection of art, photos, or mirrors. Choose pieces that reflect your personal style and complement your kitchen’s aesthetic. Consider a mix of sizes, shapes, and frames for a dynamic look. In the US, minimalist black and white photography and botanical prints are trending, while in the EU, vintage maps, travel posters, and abstract art are popular choices. For a cohesive look, stick to a consistent color palette or theme.
Floating Plants
Bring a touch of nature and freshness into your kitchen with floating plants. Hang planters or macrame holders from the ceiling above your cabinets to display vibrant greenery. Choose plants that thrive in indoor conditions and complement your kitchen’s lighting. In the US, succulents and air plants are popular choices for their low-maintenance nature, while in the EU, herbs like rosemary and basil are favored for their culinary uses. For a minimalist approach, consider using a hanging herb garden or a vertical hydroponic system.
Wall-Mounted Artwork
Enhance the visual appeal of your kitchen with large-scale artwork above the cabinets. Consider a bold abstract painting, a serene landscape photograph, or a whimsical print that complements your kitchen’s decor. Choose a piece that creates a focal point and reflects your personal style. In the US, minimalist abstract art and botanical prints are trending, while in the EU, vintage posters, travel photos, and abstract art with rich colors are popular choices. For a modern look, opt for a frameless canvas or a metallic print.
Mirror Magic
Mirrors can create the illusion of more space and reflect light, making your kitchen feel brighter and more inviting. Place a large mirror above your cabinets to visually expand the area and add depth. Consider using a mirrored backsplash to create a cohesive look or a decorative mirror with an ornate frame for a touch of elegance. In the US, minimalist rectangular mirrors are popular, while in the EU, ornate mirrors with antique or vintage finishes are favored. For a modern look, consider using a mirrored panel as an accent wall.
Decorative Trays
Add a touch of elegance and functionality to your kitchen with decorative trays above your cabinets. Place a collection of scented candles, decorative objects, or your favorite cookbooks on the trays to add visual interest and create a sense of organization. Choose trays in materials that complement your kitchen’s aesthetic, such as wood, metal, or ceramic. In the US, wood trays with a rustic finish are popular, while in the EU, metal trays with a vintage or antique look are often preferred. For a contemporary touch, consider using a geometric tray with a minimalist design.
Color Blocking
Add a pop of color to your kitchen by painting the area above your cabinets in a bold hue that complements your existing decor. Consider using a contrasting color to your cabinets for a dramatic effect or a complementary color to create a cohesive look. In the US, bold blues and greens are trending, while in the EU, warm terracotta and earthy tones are popular choices. For a minimalist approach, use a single color for the entire wall, or add a subtle accent stripe above the cabinets.
Storage Solutions
Maximize the space above your cabinets with stylish storage solutions. Consider adding baskets, bins, or shelves to store kitchen items that you don’t use frequently. Choose storage solutions that complement your kitchen’s aesthetic and provide easy access to your belongings. In the US, wicker baskets and metal bins with a rustic finish are popular, while in the EU, wooden boxes and shelves with a vintage look are often preferred. For a contemporary touch, consider using sleek acrylic storage boxes or baskets with a minimalist design.
Open Cabinetry
Extend your existing cabinetry above the cabinets to create a seamless look and maximize storage space. Use open cabinetry to display your favorite dishes, glasses, or decorative objects. Choose a style that complements your kitchen’s aesthetic, such as shaker cabinets with a traditional look or modern cabinets with a sleek, minimalist design. In the US, white or light wood cabinetry is popular, while in the EU, darker wood tones and distressed finishes are often preferred. For a modern touch, consider using glass doors on the cabinets.
Vertical Gardens
Bring a touch of greenery and life into your kitchen with a vertical garden above the cabinets. Choose a variety of plants that thrive in indoor conditions and create a stunning visual display. Consider using a modular system or a wall-mounted planter to create a cascading effect. In the US, herbs like basil and rosemary are popular choices, while in the EU, leafy greens and colorful flowers are often preferred. For a minimalist approach, use a sleek vertical planter with a metal frame.
Vintage Finds
Add a touch of character and charm to your kitchen with vintage finds above your cabinets. Consider displaying antique clocks, vintage signs, or old family photos to create a unique and personal aesthetic. Choose pieces that complement your kitchen’s decor and tell a story. In the US, vintage signs and antique clocks are popular choices, while in the EU, old maps, travel posters, and antique mirrors are often favored. For a cohesive look, stick to a consistent color palette or theme.
Geometric Shapes
Add a touch of modern flair to your kitchen with geometric shapes above your cabinets. Consider using a series of shelves in different sizes and shapes, a wall-mounted sculpture with a geometric design, or a large abstract painting with bold geometric lines. In the US, minimalist designs in black and white are trending, while in the EU, geometric shapes with bold colors and textures are popular choices. For a modern look, opt for materials like metal, wood, or acrylic.
Texture Play
Add depth and visual interest to your kitchen by incorporating different textures above your cabinets. Consider using a combination of materials like wood, metal, fabric, or glass. For example, you could use a wooden shelf with a metal bracket, a fabric banner with a geometric pattern, or a glass vase with a textured finish. In the US, natural textures like wood and stone are popular, while in the EU, distressed finishes and metallic accents are often preferred. For a modern look, consider using materials like concrete, leather, or cork.
Personal Touches
Make the space above your cabinets truly your own by adding personal touches that reflect your interests and hobbies. Consider displaying your favorite travel souvenirs, your collection of cookbooks, or your children’s artwork. Choose items that have sentimental value and add a unique element to your kitchen’s decor. In the US, personalized signs, family photos, and travel souvenirs are popular choices, while in the EU, vintage postcards, antique maps, and family heirlooms are often favored. For a cohesive look, stick to a consistent color palette or theme.
Bold Backsplash
Create a dramatic focal point above your cabinets with a bold backsplash. Consider using a patterned tile, a textured brick, or a metallic sheet to add visual interest and dimension. Choose a backsplash that complements your kitchen’s decor and creates a cohesive look. In the US, white subway tile is a classic choice, while in the EU, patterned tiles with intricate designs are often preferred. For a modern look, consider using a sleek metallic backsplash or a backsplash with a geometric pattern.
Custom Storage
Maximize the space above your cabinets with custom-made storage solutions. Consider adding a built-in shelf system, a custom-made cabinet, or a pull-down pantry to store your kitchen essentials. Choose materials and finishes that complement your kitchen’s aesthetic and create a seamless look. In the US, white or light wood cabinets are popular, while in the EU, darker wood tones and distressed finishes are often preferred. For a modern look, consider using a sleek, minimalist design with modern materials like metal or acrylic.
