Decorating the space above your kitchen cabinets can transform your kitchen from ordinary to polished. Many homeowners struggle to style the space above kitchen cabinets, treating it as wasted or awkward space. However, with thoughtful choices, the space above kitchen cabinets can serve both decorative and functional purposes. In this guide, we explore what to put on top of kitchen cabinets to enhance your overall kitchen design.
Whether you are working with a modern aesthetic or lean toward rustic farmhouse styles, knowing how to decorate the top of kitchen cabinets is key. We will walk you through 20 actionable ideas that not only elevate your decor but also make smart use of that extra vertical space. From curated collections to low-maintenance greenery, every idea is beginner-friendly and grounded in practical styling tips.
1. Display a Collection of Ceramic Jugs or Vases
We recommend using ceramic jugs or vases on top of your kitchen cabinets to add visual weight and texture. These items are ideal for styling the space above kitchen cabinets because they bring in varying heights and subtle color without overwhelming the room. Ceramic, in particular, works well in farmhouse-inspired cabinet decor due to its earthy, tactile nature. Choose a neutral palette if your kitchen already has bold cabinetry, or use colorful jugs to contrast white kitchen cabinet color ideas. 
2. Incorporate Faux or Real Greenery to Style the Space Above Kitchen Cabinets
Adding greenery above your cabinets is one of the simplest ways to make the kitchen feel fresher and more alive. Plants can soften the hard lines of cabinetry and introduce organic shapes. We suggest using trailing faux vines or low-maintenance real plants like pothos. This works particularly well if your kitchen lacks natural views or color. It also helps frame the upper edges without cluttering countertops or windowsills.
3. Stack Baskets for Texture and Storage
Baskets offer both form and function when placed above kitchen cabinets. We recommend natural woven materials like seagrass or wicker to introduce warmth and texture. These can be used to store lesser-used items or simply act as visual fillers. Vary the sizes slightly and group them in odd numbers to maintain balance and interest. This tip aligns well with farmhouse above cabinet decor and pairs nicely with wood-toned cabinets.
4. Use Vintage Kitchenware as Decor to Style the Space Above Kitchen Cabinets
Vintage items such as old sifters, enamel pots, or tin canisters can add nostalgic charm. We recommend sourcing these from flea markets or thrift stores for an authentic touch. Grouping several similar items creates a cohesive theme while keeping the area visually interesting. This type of display complements many kitchen cabinet color ideas, especially muted tones or distressed finishes.
5. Line Up Clear Glass Bottles or Jars to Style the Space Above Kitchen Cabinets
Glass bottles or apothecary jars are a clean and elegant option for above-cabinet spaces. We suggest using jars of different heights and shapes to catch and reflect light naturally. This technique is especially effective in small kitchens, where reflective surfaces can make the room feel more open. Stick to clear or lightly tinted glass for a timeless look that won’t compete with your cabinetry color.
6. Frame and Prop Up Artwork or Typography Prints
We recommend using framed prints to add personality to the space above your cabinets. Select pieces that reflect your kitchen’s style, such as botanical sketches or farmhouse sayings. Lean the frames rather than mounting them, which keeps the setup flexible and renter-friendly. This is a great way to draw the eye upward and make use of the vertical gap without adding bulk.
7. Add Lanterns or Oversized Candleholders to Style the Space Above Kitchen Cabinets
Large lanterns or candleholders are excellent for creating vertical interest. We recommend choosing rustic metal or distressed wood finishes to complement farmhouse above cabinet decor. The height and structure of lanterns help visually anchor the top space without making it feel cluttered. They also look particularly striking against white or light gray kitchen cabinet color ideas.
8. Use Decorative Wooden Crates or Boxes to Style the Space Above Kitchen Cabinets
Wooden crates offer a functional, rustic way to fill the space above kitchen cabinets. We suggest stacking or tilting them to create mini vignettes. These can be left empty for simplicity or filled with florals, cookbooks, or fabric. The natural wood tones also work well with other farmhouse accents and pair beautifully with neutral cabinet colors.
9. Install Uplighting or LED Strips
Lighting above your cabinets can dramatically shift the mood of your kitchen. We recommend installing warm-toned LED strips or small uplights to highlight your decor and eliminate dark shadows. This approach adds dimension and makes even the simplest objects appear styled. It also enhances evening ambiance without needing overhead fixtures.
10. Layer Cutting Boards or Wooden Panels
Placing vintage or decorative cutting boards vertically against the wall space above cabinets creates a rustic, lived-in look. We recommend mixing wood tones for depth, or keeping to one hue for uniformity. This idea is ideal for kitchens already incorporating wood accents, tying the whole room together while offering a low-maintenance decorative option.
11. Display Copper or Brass Cookware
If you own any copper or brass cookware, we recommend displaying it above your cabinets. These metals age gracefully and add instant character through their reflective surfaces and warm tones. The look suits both traditional and farmhouse kitchen styles and complements muted kitchen cabinet color ideas like sage, cream, or navy.
12. Incorporate a Seasonal Display
Creating a rotating seasonal display allows your kitchen decor to stay current and engaging. We suggest using small faux pumpkins in autumn, pine garlands in winter, or pastel florals in spring. This keeps the space feeling fresh and gives you an opportunity to experiment with different textures and color schemes throughout the year.
13. Use Small Signs or Chalkboards
Signs with hand-painted or printed messages work well in casual or farmhouse-style kitchens. We recommend using small wooden signs that can be leaned against the wall rather than hung. Choose messages related to food, family, or daily living. This technique is particularly effective in kitchens where cabinet tops are shallow and can’t hold larger items.
14. Add Books or Cookbooks for a Lived-In Look
A row of old cookbooks or decorative hardcover books can make your kitchen feel more curated and cozy. We suggest choosing books with complementary spines to avoid visual clutter. This works best in kitchens where the top of the cabinets is deep enough to safely support the books without risk of falling.
15. Use a Repetition of Identical Objects
If you prefer a minimalist look, we recommend choosing one type of item, such as matching pitchers or white bowls, and repeating it across the top of your cabinets. This creates a clean, symmetrical line that adds order and structure. It’s an ideal method for kitchens that already have busy countertops or patterned backsplashes.
16. Add a Row of Small Houseplants
Small potted plants are a low-effort way to bring life into your kitchen. We recommend using succulents or faux mini herbs in ceramic or terracotta pots. Arranged in a row, these plants create a soft, organic break between the cabinets and ceiling, and they work well with both traditional and modern kitchen cabinet color ideas.
17. Hang Wreaths or Garland for Texture
Wreaths or faux greenery garlands bring softness and movement to the space above kitchen cabinets. We suggest securing them with removable hooks or resting them flat across the top for a more relaxed look. This is an excellent technique for farmhouse decor and adds seasonal or rustic charm without requiring heavy or expensive items.
18. Use Oversized Letters or Monograms to Style the Space Above Kitchen Cabinets
Personalized letters or family monograms can give your kitchen a custom touch. We recommend using lightweight wood or metal letters that contrast with your wall or cabinet color. Grouping them as initials or spelling out short words like “EAT” or “WELCOME” can add personality and draw the eye upward.
19. Incorporate Textured Objects Like Clay Pots
Textured materials such as clay, cement, or plaster add an earthy, grounded look. We suggest using pots in matte finishes for a natural effect that won’t overpower your kitchen. These pieces are particularly effective when your lower cabinets or counters are sleek or minimal, offering a contrast that balances the room.
20. Lean Decorative Trays or Mirrors to Style the Space Above Kitchen Cabinets
Large serving trays or framed mirrors can be propped up above cabinets for a reflective, decorative finish. We recommend choosing items with metal accents or detailed frames for extra interest. Mirrors especially can help bounce light around the kitchen, making the space appear larger and brighter without changing your layout.
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