When it comes to kitchen design, it’s easy to focus on the countertops, cabinets, and appliances—but the space above your kitchen cabinets is often overlooked. This unused area has so much potential to add style and character to your kitchen, whether you want to create an elegant display or simply make use of the extra space. With a few clever ideas, you can transform that blank space into something extraordinary.
Decorating above your kitchen cabinets is a great way to incorporate personal style, showcase unique pieces, and add a touch of warmth to your kitchen. Whether you lean toward a rustic, modern, or classic style, the right decor can make a big impact. The best part? You don’t need to break the bank to create a stunning design; simple touches can bring charm and visual interest to the space.
Why Decorate Above Kitchen Cabinets?
The area above your kitchen cabinets is often neglected, yet it holds immense potential for enhancing your home’s overall design. By styling this space intentionally, you can create a more polished, finished look that feels warm and inviting rather than bare or incomplete.
Creates a Polished Look
- Finishes high ceilings: Adds visual interest to kitchens with tall ceilings.
- Completes the space: Prevents the room from looking unfinished or empty.
- Adds sophistication: Turns a plain kitchen into a styled, curated space.
Adds Personality and Functionality
- Showcases personality: Family photos, artwork, or keepsakes make it uniquely yours.
- Extra storage: Baskets and containers help store items without cluttering counters.
- Design flexibility: Works across multiple styles—farmhouse, rustic, or modern.
Decorating above kitchen cabinets is more than just an aesthetic choice—it’s a chance to personalize your kitchen while maximizing function. By using this overlooked area, you can tie your entire design together, making the heart of your home more welcoming and practical.
Above Kitchen Cabinet Décor Ideas
When it comes to decorating above kitchen cabinets, the options are versatile. You can keep it simple with greenery or go bold with artwork, depending on your home’s style.
Freshness with Greenery:
- Faux or real plants bring a lively touch.
- Cascading greenery softens harsh cabinet lines.
- Easy-to-maintain faux plants work well for busy kitchens.
Functional & Stylish Displays:
- Woven baskets provide hidden storage.
- Oversized art or framed photos add personality.
- Decorative ceramics and vases enhance elegance.
- Cookbooks or culinary tools showcase a chef-inspired vibe.
- Seasonal décor allows for easy, festive refreshes.
By mixing function with style, you transform unused cabinet tops into purposeful design zones. Whether you lean toward natural greenery or curated art, these ideas bring texture, depth, and charm to your kitchen without overwhelming the space.
How to Decorate Above Your Cabinets Without Making It Look Dated
In this list, we’ve gathered 10 above kitchen cabinet decor ideas that will not only enhance the look of your kitchen but also make the most out of every inch of your cooking space. So, if you’re ready to transform that unused upper shelf into something beautiful, let’s dive into these creative ideas!
Playful and Colorful Above-Cabinet Decor
In this kitchen, the space above the cabinets has been used to bring in an element of fun and color. The oversized “ENJOY” letters are a cheerful and bold choice that instantly grabs attention, while the whimsical flower accents on the refrigerator create a playful vibe. This colorful and eclectic look feels fresh and welcoming, perfect for a family-friendly kitchen or anyone looking to inject personality into the heart of their home. A simple yet impactful way to transform unused space is through fun, oversized words or colorful accents that reflect your personal style.
Quirky and Modern Touch with Large Typography
For those who want to add a quirky twist to their kitchen, this above-cabinet decor features large, bold typography. The word “MEOW” made from distressed wooden letters brings a touch of personality and fun to the kitchen. Above the cabinets, vibrant yarn balls in contrasting red and blue make the space feel more energetic and lively. This decor is perfect for cat lovers or anyone who enjoys playful, offbeat decor. Pairing it with bold wallpaper like the cat print shown here gives a modern edge to the room, making it a memorable space.
Minimalistic Elegance with Simple Baskets and Vases
Sometimes, less is more, and this kitchen proves that a minimalist approach can work wonders in above-cabinet decor. Here, a collection of neutral-toned vases and baskets add texture and subtle elegance without overwhelming the space. The muted tones complement the overall soft and serene color palette of the kitchen, creating a peaceful atmosphere. Adding small greenery, like the plants peeking from the baskets, can further enhance the aesthetic. This idea works well in kitchens with a classic or Scandinavian-inspired design, where simplicity and elegance are key.
Rustic Industrial Style with Open Shelving
If you’re aiming for a rustic, industrial vibe, open shelving above your cabinets can be the perfect solution. This kitchen features dark shelving that contrasts beautifully with the bright white tiles and soft light from the hanging bulbs. The shelves hold a mix of simple items, such as plants and decorative bottles, adding to the rustic charm. This style works well in kitchens with industrial elements, like exposed pipes and raw materials. Open shelving above the cabinets gives the space a more lived-in feel and allows for creative displays of your favorite items.
Sleek and Modern with Reflective and Stylish Accessories
In a modern, high-end kitchen, the space above the cabinets can become a focal point by incorporating reflective and sleek accessories. In this sophisticated space, metallic finishes such as gold accents on the pendants and a sleek mirror above the range make the kitchen feel both glamorous and functional. The contrast of dark cabinetry and lighter walls creates balance, while the decorative objects above the cabinets contribute to the luxurious ambiance. Adding a large mirror above your cabinets reflects light and opens up the space, enhancing the overall atmosphere with a touch of opulence.
Natural Charm with Wooden Accents
For a natural, warm, and calming vibe, using wooden elements above the kitchen cabinets can create a subtle yet stunning effect. This kitchen pairs wooden pizza boards with minimal accessories, allowing the natural beauty of the wood to shine. The wooden accents on top of the cabinets perfectly complement the light, airy feel of the room while tying into the overall neutral tones and brass fixtures. It’s a simple yet elegant choice that introduces texture and warmth into a modern kitchen space.
Vibrant and Eclectic Above-Cabinet Display
For a vibrant, eclectic look, decorating above the cabinets with colorful plates and quirky items brings life and personality to the space. In this playful kitchen, colorful plates are arranged on the wall, offering a mix of patterns and textures. The bright blue cabinetry adds even more vibrancy, creating a unique atmosphere that is fun and lively. Pairing bold accents like these with the neutral white walls ensures the colorful pieces stand out, making the above-cabinet area an unexpected focal point.
Classic Blue and White Elegance
In this kitchen, a classic blue and white theme is elevated by the charming plates adorning the space above the cabinets. These vintage-style blue plates create a picturesque gallery wall that blends seamlessly with the surrounding elements. This classic approach adds an element of tradition and warmth to the kitchen while maintaining a timeless elegance. The combination of vintage plates and glass-front cabinets creates a sense of nostalgia and sophistication that’s perfect for those who appreciate classic charm.
Rustic Elegance with Copper Accents
Copper accents bring a sense of rustic elegance to any kitchen, and in this space, they’ve been thoughtfully placed above the cabinets. The gleaming copper cookware atop the cabinets reflects the soft, ambient light in the room, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere. This simple but effective decor choice enhances the rustic aesthetic while maintaining a clean, organized look. The copper accents pair perfectly with the neutral color palette of the kitchen, adding just the right amount of visual interest without overwhelming the space.
Greenery and Earthy Charm with Shelves Above Cabinets
If you love a more organic, bohemian vibe, the above-cabinet shelves here are the perfect example of how to incorporate greenery into your kitchen decor. The carefully placed plants in a variety of pots, along with a collection of rustic kitchenware, bring a natural, earthy charm to the space. The added greenery not only brightens the room but also brings life and freshness, creating a kitchen that feels like a welcoming, lived-in sanctuary. This style is ideal for those who want a mix of rustic, modern, and nature-inspired aesthetics.
Sleek and Modern with Deep Navy Accents
This kitchen’s above-cabinet decor effortlessly complements the deep navy cabinetry with a minimalist approach. The neutral walls and large windows provide a fresh and open ambiance, while the plants placed strategically above the cabinets add a touch of natural beauty. The simplicity of the decor and the balance between dark and light tones create an elegant, modern space. This style works particularly well in contemporary kitchens, where less is more, and every piece of decor serves a purpose.
Festive Charm with Miniature Christmas Trees
For those looking to infuse some seasonal cheer, decorating above the cabinets with small seasonal touches like these miniature Christmas trees creates a cozy atmosphere. This kitchen features elegant, neutral open shelving that holds delicate glassware and matching ceramics, while the addition of greenery introduces a touch of holiday spirit. This simple and tasteful decor idea is perfect for the winter months, bringing a festive and warm vibe to the kitchen without overpowering the space.
Timeless Simplicity with Classic Styling
The above-cabinet area in this kitchen is a perfect example of how simplicity can create a timeless look. With white shelves and classic elements like a vintage scale and brass accents, the space feels both sophisticated and inviting. The subtle additions of greenery and seasonal decor, like the mini trees, add depth without overcrowding the space. This decor style works wonderfully in traditional kitchens where elegance is key, and the clean lines and thoughtful arrangements bring balance and harmony to the space.
Quirky Retro with Vibrant Colors
In this retro-inspired kitchen, the space above the cabinets is brought to life with colorful plates and quirky decor. The green cabinetry and playful patterns on the plates above infuse the kitchen with a vintage vibe, while the use of decorative elements like wicker baskets and hanging plants adds a touch of personality. This decor style is perfect for a more whimsical or eclectic kitchen that wants to embrace bold color choices and unique vintage finds.
Vibrant Greenery with Playful Plates
For a kitchen that’s both lively and fresh, decorating above the cabinets with green-themed plates and accents can bring a fun, nature-inspired element. The array of green plates against a clean white wall adds a pop of color, making the space feel alive and full of energy. The complementary green plants on the kitchen island tie the look together, creating a cohesive and vibrant kitchen that feels modern yet inviting. This decor idea works great for spring or summer, offering a refreshing update to your kitchen space.
Charming Vintage Display Above the Sink
This cozy kitchen nook uses the space above the sink creatively, with a collection of charming vintage bowls, plates, and rustic touches. The eclectic mix of different-sized bowls and the rooster figurine add a homey, farmhouse feel. Above-cabinet decor doesn’t have to be complex; a few well-chosen items like these can turn the space into a welcoming feature. The light-colored shelving also enhances the simplicity of the design while allowing the items to stand out. This is an excellent choice for creating a cozy, vintage-inspired vibe in a kitchen.
Industrial Charm with Copper Pots and Minimalist Shelving
This kitchen features a stunning industrial touch with the addition of copper pots hanging above the counter, which doubles as functional storage and stylish decor. The minimalist open shelving creates a clean look while allowing the copper and ceramic items to take center stage. This simple yet sophisticated style is perfect for modern kitchens with an industrial or rustic flair. The copper accents, paired with the neutral walls and subtle greenery, elevate the decor without overwhelming the space.
Bold and Bright with Geometric Tiles and Brass Details
In this kitchen, above-cabinet decor is kept minimal yet striking. The brass fixtures on the shelves, along with the natural wood tones, complement the bold geometric tile flooring, adding a pop of visual interest. The shelves are simple, yet the use of color and material contrast with the clean lines of the cabinets makes the space feel balanced and modern. This setup works well for those looking to make a statement without overcrowding the space, utilizing the upper shelves to enhance the existing decor.
Modern Simplicity with Sculptural Art Pieces
For those who enjoy contemporary art, this kitchen cleverly displays art pieces above the cabinets, turning the space into a gallery of sorts. The sleek shelves hold not only kitchen essentials but also sculptural art, blending modern aesthetics with functional decor. The simple, clean layout of the kitchen serves as a perfect backdrop for these unique pieces, allowing them to stand out while maintaining a minimalist approach. This style works well in modern kitchens that embrace creativity and personal expression.
Eclectic Boho Vibes with Plants and Unique Collectibles
This eclectic kitchen brings together a mix of bohemian and vintage styles with its unique decor choices above the cabinets. A variety of plants, art, and curated collectibles line the open shelves, filling the space with personality. The organic elements like plants, woven baskets, and vintage trinkets add warmth and texture, creating a space that feels lived-in and inviting. This boho-inspired decor idea is ideal for kitchens that aim to reflect a free-spirited, artistic vibe while still keeping everything functional.
Industrial Charm with Exposed Brick and Sleek Minimalism
This modern kitchen incorporates exposed brick above the cabinets, adding an industrial edge to the space. The sleek, all-white cabinetry and minimalistic decor allow the brick wall to serve as the focal point. This setup uses the above-cabinet space sparingly, with just a few plants placed to keep the space looking fresh and vibrant. The industrial style is further accentuated with modern lighting, making this decor choice ideal for contemporary kitchens that embrace raw materials and clean lines.
Bold Color Pop with Teal Shelf Backdrop
This kitchen adds a playful pop of color by painting the backs of the upper cabinets a vibrant teal, giving the above-cabinet space a bold look. The carefully arranged ceramics, including coffee mugs and bowls, are displayed with style, while the contrasting vibrant backdrop adds a sense of personality and fun. This decor idea is perfect for those who want to introduce a burst of color without overwhelming the space. A fun way to incorporate color while still keeping the kitchen organized and visually interesting.
Sleek and Sophisticated with Reflective Surfaces
In this modern kitchen, the use of reflective surfaces—such as the polished countertops and chrome accents—adds a touch of sophistication to the above-cabinet space. The sleek shelves above the cabinets hold green plants and minimalist decor, contributing to the clean, contemporary aesthetic. The polished chrome fixtures and sleek, dark cabinetry further enhance the modern design. This is an excellent choice for anyone looking to create a high-end, modern kitchen with a refined yet relaxed atmosphere.
Elegant and Relaxed with Soft Blue Tiles
Here, the combination of soft blue subway tiles and classic brass fixtures above the cabinets creates a tranquil, elegant atmosphere. The subtle decor, including soft lighting and neutral shelving, complements the blue tones and adds to the overall cozy vibe. This design is ideal for kitchens looking for a touch of traditional charm with a modern twist. The delicate color scheme ensures the space feels calm and welcoming, while the carefully placed plants add life and freshness.
Eclectic and Fun with Vibrant Tiles and Personal Touches
In this eclectic kitchen, the space above the cabinets is used to add character and whimsy with a mix of colorful books and vibrant kitchenware. The geometric-patterned tiles on the backsplash add a sense of playfulness, perfectly paired with the casual yet stylish decor above the cabinets. This kitchen exudes personality and is perfect for people who love to combine colors and patterns in unexpected ways. The personal items on the shelves give the kitchen a lived-in, homey feel, making it a welcoming place to cook and entertain.
Creative Bookshelf Above the Kitchen Cabinets
This kitchen’s above-cabinet decor is a perfect mix of functionality and style. A collection of books stacked neatly on the open shelf not only adds personality but also utilizes the space efficiently. The addition of a large framed mirror further enhances the decor, making the area feel more spacious and visually striking. The rich blue backsplash tiles provide a perfect backdrop for the books and mirror, contributing to the vibrant energy of the space. This design is ideal for a modern or eclectic kitchen where you want to combine beauty with practicality.
Bold Color and Functional Display
This kitchen showcases a clever use of color and open shelving. Above the cabinets, the contrasting colors of the dark walls and soft white cabinetry create an inviting and cozy atmosphere. The addition of decorative elements such as vases filled with bright sunflowers and stacked colorful glassware brings warmth and character to the space. The shelves offer a functional solution for displaying everyday items like bowls and cups, allowing you to personalize the upper cabinetry while maintaining organization. This decor is perfect for those looking for an easy yet stylish way to update their kitchen.
Inspiration from Real Homes
Looking for real-world examples? Homeowners and designers often share creative ways to style the space above their kitchen cabinets. Here are some standout inspirations:
- Farmhouse kitchens with greenery and wicker baskets: Warm, rustic, and cozy, this look emphasizes natural textures.
- Modern kitchens styled with minimal artwork: Clean lines and neutral art pieces keep the space sleek and uncluttered.
- Rustic kitchens using vintage signs and antiques: Adds character and nostalgic charm while fitting the rustic aesthetic.
- Pinterest & Instagram trends: Popular styles include layered plants, oversized jars, and seasonal rotations for an updated look.
These examples prove that the space above your cabinets can adapt to any design style. Whether you’re chasing farmhouse coziness, modern elegance, or rustic character, online platforms like Pinterest and Instagram are full of inspiration to spark your creativity.
Frequently Asked Questions About Above Kitchen Cabinet Décor
What should I put above my kitchen cabinets?
The space above your cabinets can be styled with plants, baskets, artwork, or decorative ceramics. Greenery adds freshness, woven baskets offer both charm and hidden storage, and framed art or family photos introduce personality. If you want a more functional approach, consider displaying cookbooks or kitchen-themed décor like vintage jars. Choose items that complement your kitchen’s style and color palette.
Is it better to decorate or leave the space empty?
It depends on your design preference. Minimalist kitchens often look best with clean, empty space, while farmhouse, rustic, or eclectic styles benefit from thoughtfully styled décor. If your kitchen feels unfinished, adding décor above cabinets creates a polished look. For smaller kitchens, leaving it empty can help maintain an open, airy vibe.
How do I keep above-cabinet décor clean?
Dust naturally collects above cabinets, so choose items that are easy to wipe or wash. Faux greenery, ceramics, or glass jars are low-maintenance compared to fabric or intricate décor. Dust every few weeks using a microfiber cloth or vacuum attachment. If you prefer less upkeep, consider closed baskets or bins, which minimize dust exposure and make cleaning much simpler.
Can I use the space for storage?
Yes, above-cabinet space is ideal for hidden storage. Woven baskets, decorative bins, or matching boxes keep seasonal or rarely used kitchen items out of sight but within reach. This way, you get functionality without sacrificing style. Just avoid storing heavy or frequently used items, as accessing them can be inconvenient and unsafe.
What décor works best in modern kitchens?
For modern kitchens, keep the styling minimal and sleek. Neutral-toned ceramics, simple framed art, or small pops of greenery work beautifully. Avoid overcrowding—stick with one or two larger statement pieces instead of many small items. Clean lines, subtle textures, and a restrained color palette help maintain the streamlined look modern kitchens are known for.
Final Verdict
Decorating above your kitchen cabinets is an often overlooked opportunity to inject personality, style, and functionality into your space. Whether you’re aiming for a sleek modern look, a cozy farmhouse vibe, or a vibrant, eclectic design, the options are endless. From minimalist shelves adorned with plants to stacked books and seasonal decor, the space above your cabinets can truly transform the feel of your kitchen.
Remember, the key is to find a balance between decoration and functionality. Choose items that enhance the room without overcrowding it, and don’t be afraid to mix materials and colors to reflect your personality. A few carefully selected pieces can add warmth, texture, and a touch of charm, turning what is often a forgotten space into a stunning focal point.
Whether you opt for vintage pieces, modern art, or simple greenery, above-cabinet decor offers a creative and easy way to elevate your kitchen’s aesthetic. The ideas presented here serve as inspiration for creating a kitchen that feels uniquely yours—stylish, functional, and welcoming.