Decorating the space above kitchen cabinets can be both delightful and challenging. This often-overlooked area offers a unique opportunity to transform the space above your kitchen cabinets and enhance your kitchen’s aesthetic appeal. Whether your style is modern, rustic, or eclectic, there are many creative ways to utilize this space effectively.
11 ideas to transform the space above your kitchen cabinets | THE INSIDE DECOR
Here, we’ll explore 11 innovative ideas in detail to help you transform the areas above your kitchen cabinets into a visually stunning and functional part of your home. By implementing these ideas, you can make this space not only more attractive but also more practical. Whether you choose to install open shelving, showcase curated collections, or introduce eye-catching artwork, these approaches will allow you to fully realize the potential of this often-neglected space and create a cohesive, inviting kitchen environment.
1. Display a Collection
One of the most popular ways to decorate above kitchen cabinets is to display a collection. This could range from vintage dishes and pottery to antique glassware or metal sculptures. The key is to choose items that reflect your personality and complement your kitchen’s decor.
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Tips for Displaying a Collection:
- Choose a Theme: Stick to a single theme to create a cohesive look. For example, if you collect vintage teapots, display them together rather than mixing them with other types of collectibles. This not only creates visual harmony but also makes the collection more impactful.
- Vary Heights and Sizes: Arrange items of different heights and sizes to create visual interest. Use risers or stands to elevate shorter pieces, ensuring that each item is visible and contributes to the overall display.
- Lighting: Add small LED lights or strip lighting to highlight your collection. This is especially effective for delicate or detailed items that deserve extra attention. Proper lighting can make your collection stand out and add a warm ambiance to your kitchen.
2. Install Open Shelving
Open shelving above cabinets can add both style and functionality. This setup allows you to display items while keeping them easily accessible. Open shelving is versatile and can be tailored to fit any kitchen style.
Tips for Open Shelving:
- Keep It Organized: Avoid clutter by displaying only a few items on each shelf. Group similar items together for a clean look. This not only keeps the shelves looking tidy but also makes it easier to find what you need.
- Use Baskets and Containers: Decorative baskets and containers can help keep things organized while adding texture and color. Choose baskets that complement your grey color kitchen cabinets or introduce a pop of color for visual interest, enhancing the overall look of your kitchen.
- Rotate Displays: Change the items on display seasonally or whenever you feel like refreshing your kitchen’s look. This keeps the decor dynamic and allows you to showcase different items throughout the year.
3. Add a Wine Rack
If you’re a wine enthusiast, installing a wine rack above your cabinets is a stylish and practical solution. This not only frees up counter space but also creates an attractive display.
Tips for Adding a Wine Rack:
- Secure Installation: Ensure the wine rack is securely installed to support the weight of the bottles. Proper installation is crucial to prevent accidents and keep your wine collection safe.
- Coordinate with Kitchen Decor: Choose a wine rack that matches your kitchen’s style, whether it’s modern, rustic, or traditional. For a contemporary touch, select a design that complements modern kitchen cabinet handles, ensuring the wine rack blends seamlessly with the rest of your kitchen decor.
- Accessorize: Add wine-related accessories like corkscrews, wine glasses, and decorative cork collections to complete the look. These accessories can enhance the display and make it more functional.
4. Create a Mini Library
For those who love to cook, a mini library of cookbooks above the cabinets can be both decorative and practical. This idea adds a personal touch and keeps your favorite recipes within reach.
Tips for Creating a Mini Library:
- Organize by Size or Color: Arrange books by size or color for a visually appealing display. This creates a sense of order and makes the display more attractive.
- Use Bookends: Decorative bookends can add flair and keep your books upright. Choose bookends that match your kitchen’s style and add a touch of personality.
- Mix in Decor: Incorporate small decorative items like figurines, plants, or framed photos to break up the rows of books. This adds variety and keeps the display interesting.
5. Display Antique Kitchenware
If you love vintage finds, displaying antique kitchenware above your cabinets can add charm and character to your kitchen. This idea works particularly well in rustic or farmhouse-style kitchens.
Tips for Displaying Antique Kitchenware:
- Group Similar Items: Group items like old teapots, mixing bowls, or utensils for a cohesive look. This creates a sense of unity and makes the display more impactful.
- Mix with Modern Pieces: Combine vintage items with modern decor to create a unique, eclectic style. Incorporating modern kitchen cabinet hardware into this blend of old and new adds depth and interest to your kitchen, creating a harmonious and distinctive look.
- Highlight Special Pieces: Use lighting to highlight particularly special or valuable pieces in your collection. This draws attention to these items and makes them stand out.
6. Use Wooden Accents
Incorporating wooden accents above your kitchen cabinets can add warmth and a natural element to your kitchen, especially if you have natural wood kitchen cabinets. This can range from wooden signs to small wooden sculptures, enhancing the cohesive look of your space.
Tips for Using Wooden Accents:
- Choose Complementary Wood Tones: Ensure the wood tones of your accents match or complement your kitchen cabinets and decor. This creates a cohesive look and enhances the natural beauty of the wood.
- Mix and Match Textures: Combine smooth and rough wood textures for added interest. This adds depth and makes the display more dynamic.
- Personalize: Use custom wooden signs with your family name or favorite quotes for a personal touch. Personalized items make your kitchen feel more like home and add a unique element to your decor.
7. Install a Row of Hooks
A row of hooks above your cabinets can be both functional and decorative. Use them to hang items like mugs, utensils, or decorative pieces, especially if you have a kitchen cabinet with sink nearby. This setup ensures easy access to essentials and adds a stylish touch to your kitchen.
Tips for Installing a Row of Hooks:
- Ensure Sturdiness: Make sure the hooks are securely installed and can bear the weight of the items you plan to hang. Proper installation is crucial for safety and functionality.
- Use Matching Hardware: Choose hooks that match the finish of your kitchen hardware for a cohesive look. This ensures that the hooks blend seamlessly with the rest of your kitchen decor.
- Hang Decorative Items: Mix functional items with purely decorative ones, like hanging plants or charming kitchen decor. This adds variety and keeps the display interesting.
8. Create a Gallery of Cutting Boards
A collection of cutting boards can be an unexpected and stylish way to decorate above your cabinets. This works especially well in kitchens with rustic kitchen cabinets or a farmhouse style, adding a touch of charm and character to your space.
Tips for Creating a Cutting Board Gallery:
- Vary Shapes and Sizes: Use cutting boards of different shapes, sizes, and wood types for a visually interesting display. This creates a dynamic look and adds depth to the display.
- Lean Boards: Lean the boards against the wall for a casual, laid-back look. This creates a relaxed and inviting atmosphere in your kitchen.
- Add Other Elements: Combine with other kitchen-related decor items like vintage scales or herb containers. This adds variety and keeps the display interesting.
9. Use Mirrored Tiles
Mirrored tiles can add a touch of glamour and help reflect light in your kitchen, making the space feel larger and brighter.
Tips for Using Mirrored Tiles:
- Install Securely: Ensure the tiles are securely attached to avoid any accidents. Proper installation is crucial for safety and durability.
- Clean Regularly: Keep the mirrored tiles clean to maintain their reflective quality. Regular cleaning ensures that the tiles remain bright and clear.
- Complement with Lighting: Add under-cabinet lighting to enhance the reflective effect of the mirrors. Proper lighting can make the tiles sparkle and brighten up your kitchen.
10. Display a Collection of Jars
A collection of jars filled with colorful ingredients or decorative items can add a vibrant and functional touch to your kitchen.
Tips for Displaying Jars:
- Use Clear Jars: Clear jars allow the contents to be the star of the display. This creates a vibrant and colorful display that adds life to your kitchen.
- Group by Color: Arrange jars by color for a visually striking effect. This creates a sense of order and makes the display more attractive.
- Label Jars: Use stylish labels to identify the contents, adding both form and function. Proper labeling ensures that the display is both beautiful and practical.
11. Incorporate Sculptures and Figurines
Sculptures and figurines can add a touch of art and personality to your kitchen. Choose pieces that resonate with your style and interests.
Tips for Incorporating Sculptures:
- Select Appropriate Sizes: Ensure the sculptures are proportional to the space above your cabinets. Proper sizing ensures that the sculptures fit well and don’t overwhelm the space.
- Create a Theme: Choose a theme for your sculptures, such as animals, abstract art, or culinary-inspired pieces. This creates a cohesive look and makes the display more impactful.
- Highlight with Lighting: Use spotlights or LED strips to highlight your sculptures and make them stand out. Proper lighting can enhance the beauty of the sculptures and draw attention to them.
Final Thoughts
The space above your kitchen cabinets offers a wealth of creative opportunities. By thoughtfully selecting and arranging decor, you can transform this often-overlooked area into a stylish and functional part of your kitchen. Whether you prefer a minimalist approach or a more eclectic style, these 11 ideas provide a starting point for creating a space that reflects your personality and enhances your home’s overall aesthetic.
Additional Tips for Decorating Above Kitchen Cabinets:
- Consistency is Key: When decorating above your cabinets, aim for consistency in style, color, and theme. This helps create a cohesive look that ties the entire kitchen together.
- Avoid Overcrowding: Less is often more when it comes to decorating. Avoid overcrowding the space above your cabinets, as this can make the kitchen look cluttered and chaotic.
- Use the Space Wisely: Consider the height of your ceiling and the space available above your cabinets. Choose decor items that fit well within this space without overwhelming it.
- Blend Function and Aesthetics: While the primary goal is to enhance the aesthetic appeal of your kitchen, consider adding functional elements as well. Items like jars, baskets, and cookbooks can add both beauty and utility to the space.
Remember, the key to successful decorating is to make choices that you love and that make your kitchen feel like an extension of yourself. So, gather your favorite items, unleash your creativity, and start transforming the space above your kitchen cabinets today!
