How to decorate space above kitchen cabinets is honestly one of those questions that bugged me for ages. That awkward gap just loves to collect dust bunnies instead of compliments. Last summer, I literally stood in my kitchen for thirty minutes, staring up at it, thinking, “Do I just let it be or do something actually cute?” Turns out, you can make a huge difference with a little creativity — it’s like giving your space a mini-makeover. If you love farmhouse vibes, there are always fun ideas like charming wall art to check out, too, if you want more inspiration from this source. Anyway, let’s help you turn that no man’s land into a spot you actually like looking at every day. 
Should You Decorate Above Kitchen Cabinets?
Here’s my honest take. Should you decorate above kitchen cabinets? Well, it depends (I know, that’s a little wishy-washy but hang with me). Some kitchens look fantastic with a little personality up there. But, truth be told, sometimes too much stuff just crowds things up real fast. If you’ve got a high ceiling or that empty space is glaring at you like it wants to join the party, go for it. If the cabinets go right to the ceiling, maybe skip it (nobody needs their pretty stuff squished). I think it’s all about your actual space and what you’re into. My neighbor tried faux plants and it looked like a secret garden, in a good way. Someone else just stacked cookbooks and now it feels like a fancy café. My attitude is—give it a shot, but don’t force yourself if it feels off.
“I always thought decorating that spot would just create more dusting, but honestly, it completely changed the vibe of my kitchen once I tried a few baskets and some art. Feels homier now!” — Jess K.
What Decorations To Put On Top Of Kitchen Cabinets
Maybe you’re wondering what in the world actually goes up there—believe it or not, you can mix it up. Don’t aim for five-star restaurant perfection. Go for what feels good in your kitchen.
Some folks pop a few cute baskets up there—bonus, you can store bag clips or random napkins inside (I do this, so handy). Others use fake plants or vines to give it a lived-in, cozy feel (that’s my go-to because my green thumb is basically nonexistent). Vintage jars or old bottles work for a kind of old-school look, which is oddly charming—think flea market finds, not grandma’s attic. If you want to keep it really simple, lean up a quirky sign or framed artwork. You don’t have to go overboard, but mixing different heights and textures really helps it look more “wow” than “why?”
Decor Ideas for Above Kitchen Cabinets
Alright, let’s get specific. Here are a few easy ideas that I swear by:
- Baskets and bins: These are sneaky storage and keep things looking tidy.
- Small plants: Real or fake, they add a fresh pop of color (and distract from dust).
- Cookbooks or jars: Give off that lived-in, chef-in-the-making vibe.
- Ceramic pitchers or vases: Stack a couple for an understated yet artsy look.
Mix these up so it doesn’t feel like you bought everything on the same day. Trust your gut, honestly. Sometimes I move stuff around three times before I like it.
Above Kitchen Cabinets Decor: Before and After
Sometimes people don’t realize how much of a glow-up you can get with just a few changes. I still remember the first time I decluttered the mess above my kitchen cabinets. Gave it a good wipe, then popped up some baskets and an old cookie jar. That spot went from “probably a mouse trap up there” to “wait, is this a magazine shoot?” Ok, that’s dramatic, but you get my drift. Even swapping out dusty old foliage for new fakes made it feel fresh. And when I want something totally different? Rotate stuff with the seasons. Works every single time.
Permission to Make Changes
Let’s be real a sec: sometimes you just need someone to give you a little nudge and say, “Go for it.” If you’re renting or worried your landlord will freak, just use lightweight stuff, nothing permanent. Command hooks, light baskets, portable art… nobody’s going to come after you for a few decorations. And hey, worst-case scenario? You can take it all down in five minutes. Your kitchen is yours to style — if it makes you smile when you walk in, then that’s a win.
Common Questions
Q: Will decorating above cabinets make my place look cluttered?
A: Not if you keep things simple and stick with a palette or theme, like baskets or greenery.
Q: Do I have to dust up there all the time?
A: Not really! Try baskets or closed bins, which hide any dust. Pick fake plants you can rinse off easily.
Q: What if my cabinets touch the ceiling?
A: Lucky you. Just skip decorating and let the clean lines shine.
Q: Can I use that space for storage?
A: Absolutely. Stash stuff you don’t use often, but remember to keep it neat.
Q: What’s the best thing you’ve put up there?
A: Honestly? An old teal teapot and a woven tray. Simple wins.
Try These Above Cabinet Tricks for a Whole New Kitchen Feel
To wrap things up, decorating above kitchen cabinets can take your kitchen from basic to “hey, did you redecorate?” with almost no effort. Keep it easy, add a bit at a time and see what you like. If you’re needing more ideas with fun visuals, there are always awesome collections out there, like some neat ones on Pinterest for above cabinets decor. Or, if you want advice straight from the people, this Reddit thread on what to do above the cabinets is packed with opinions and real-life results. So, jump in and try it — and if you make a mess? Just call it your creative process. 